SIMS Foundation-Hosted Benefit Concert To Aid Austin Musicians

AUSTIN, TX — The SIMS Summer Sessions — a monthly seasonal event created to raise funds for musicians in need — continues this Saturday with country music singer/songwriter Rob Baird.

The summer concert series are hosted by the SIMS Foundation, which provides mental health and substance use recovery services for musicians, music industry professionals, and their families to support the well-being of the Austin music community.

Given the philanthropic nature of the upcoming concert, donations will be accepted to watch Baird perform on Saturday at Key Bar along West 6th Street. While admission is free, donations of $5 to $10 will be accepted.

The event takes place on Saturday, July 20, from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Key Bar, 617 W. 6th St. The fundraiser comes at a time when SIMS has seen an increasing number of patients dealing with myriad issues, officials said.

"SIMS has seen new growth in patients at an astounding level," the foundation's officials said in a prepared statement. "While the number of people we help dramatically increases, our need for funding to support those folks also must rise. We need you to help us help your favorite artist or someone they revere."

Saturday's event will enable residents to contribute to the cause while enjoying good country music in a city proud to bill itself as the "live music capital of the world." For the uninitiated, here's a bio on Baird, as provided by the SIMS Foundation:

About Rob Baird

Rob Baird released his highly anticipated 4th album “After All” (Hard Luck Records) on January 11th, 2019. Rob and his band recorded at Battle Tapes with Jeremy Ferguson (Cage the Elephant, Andrew Combs, Lucie Silvas), featuring background vocals by Lucie Silvas and Kristen Rodgers. Baird’s aptitude for storytelling is showcased in the poignant narrative the record spins about navigating the end of a relationship.

A Memphis native, Baird moved to Austin in 2005, establishing a strong Texas fan-base. Baird has had consistent praise from the press, and his songs have been featured on multiple TV shows (Army Wives, Hart of Dixie, Nashville, The Ranch).

Baird has toured and played shows with Jason Isbell, Billy Joe Shaver, The Steeldrivers, Don Williams, Jack Ingram, and many others. His unique sound is often categorized as Americana, singer-songwriter, and alt-country. The guitar driven tracks and soul-stirring vocals of After All have elicited a substantial positive response from fans and critics alike.