Steve Earle gathered longtime collaborators and kindred spirits, including Jackson Browne, Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams, and Margaret Glaspy, for the tenth annual John Henry’s Friends Benefit at The Town Hall in NYC Monday night. The concert raised funds to support for The Keswell School—an institution dedicated to educating children and young adults with autism.
The evening unfolded in the “guitar pull” format, a southern tradition that places all the artists on stage together, swapping stories and tunes in a spontaneous, communal style. It’s a fitting approach for Earle, whose commitment to using his music to create change was born from a very personal place. His son, John Henry, diagnosed with autism at 19 months, now attends Keswell, where the school’s intensive support helps him and other students thrive. The benefit represents both Earle’s love for his son and his fierce advocacy for others with autism, echoing his own journey as a father facing the challenges and victories that come with the diagnosis.
Steve Earle opened the benefit with his signature “The Galway Girl”, followed by Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams doing “Ride With Me”, Margaret Glaspy playing “Memories”, and Jackson Browne’s take on J.D. Souther’s “Jesus in 3/4 Time”. Browne’s presence in the intimate Town Hall venue was especially meaningful seeing as he was the very first artist to join Earle for this cause nearly a decade ago.
Campbell and Williams later offered a heartfelt tribute to late Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh with a rendition of “Attics of My Life”, while Glaspy delivered soulful renditions of “Get Back” and Lucinda Williams‘ “Fruits of My Labor”.
Larry Campell & Teresa Williams – “Attics Of My Life” (Grateful Dead, Dedicated To Phil Lesh) – 11/4/24
[Video: Tim Roach]
The night wasn’t just about musical performances; it was a chance for the community to come together in the name of helping to create an environment that celebrates and supports children with autism. Through events like this benefit, Earle has found a way to channel his artistry and life experience into activism. The Keswell School, which provides a 1:1 student-teacher ratio for children with autism, has become a second home for his son, helping him and other students develop important skills and independence. With the funds raised at Town Hall, Keswell will continue to provide high-quality, specialized education to children with autism, empowering them to live fulfilling lives as part of their communities.
Fittingly, the concert closed with a rendition of “Teach Your Children”, a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young classic. This final song served as a resonant close to a night that beautifully intertwined music and purpose, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of compassion and commitment.
Steve Earle’s tenth annual John Henry’s Friends Benefit was more than a concert; it was a testament to the power of music to forge connections, raise awareness, and drive change. The event reaffirmed that art can be a powerful force for good—especially when fueled by love for family and community.
Click below to view a gallery of photos from Maggie Miles, and head here to learn more about The Keswell School and its mission.
The post Steve Earle Leads Benefit For Autism Education With Jackson Browne, Margaret Glaspy, More In NYC [Photos/Video] appeared first on L4LM.
