Country, Americana and alternative music tunesmith Kari Lynch has hosted the benefit concert for more than a decade. It returns Saturday to Caledonia. The lowdown at Local Spins.
Inspiring Music Helping Those in Need: Kari Lynch leads Saturday night’s ‘Jingle Jam’ in Caledonia. (Photo/Chelsea Whitaker)
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Take it from singer-songwriter Kyle Joe, who’s performed three times at Kari Lynch’s “A Very Merry Jingle Jam” benefit concert.
“Kari Lynch is a force,” said Kyle Rasche, the West Michigan artist once known as Chain of Lakes and now releasing music as Kyle Joe.
“She’s a great writer and musician, but her magnetism is what sets her apart. She throws a great party, and everyone’s invited. I’m grateful to be in her sphere.”
Grateful, too, is Grand Rapids’ non-profit Mel Trotter Ministries which has been the beneficiary of more than $20,000 in monetary contributions and countless food, clothing and health care items donated by concert attendees since Lynch organized the first benefit back in 2012.
Returning on Saturday: Kyle Joe at Butcher Block Social (Photo/Chelsea Whitaker)
This year’s star-studded affair featuring performances by nine different regional acts kicks off at 6 p.m. Saturday at Butcher Block Social, 9900 Cherry Valley Ave. SE in Caledonia.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing everything come together and witnessing people enjoy the event, knowing we’re making a real, positive impact on the community,” said Lynch. “It’s also incredibly fulfilling to watch musicians and artists come together each year. There’s such a supportive, fun energy among everyone,” said Lynch, who launched her music career in the Grand Rapids area and is now based in Nashville.
“What truly stands out is seeing the immediate, tangible support for those in need. I can’t fully explain how deeply appreciative the folks at Mel Trotter are when I deliver all the donations. Their gratitude is palpable.”
AN ALL-STAR LINEUP FOR A ‘THRIVING’ ANNUAL EVENT
In addition to Kyle Joe and the Kari Lynch Band, Saturday’s event — which Lynch called “a labor of love to produce” — will feature performances by Shelagh & Robbie, Big Jake Bootstrap, Bruce Matthews, Steve Rivers, Astro Jackson, Mat Churchill and Lighting Matches, along with a raffle of prizes and merchandise donated by area businesses (including a Local Spins gift pack).
Rasche, who releases a new Kyle Joe album next month, said the Jingle Jams “are always great for me because I get to reconnect with old pals,” adding that the Kari Lynch Band will back him up on a few songs.
“Witnessing the Jingle Jam thrive over the last 12 years has been incredible,” said Lynch, who conceded she wasn’t always sure she could continue the tradition after relocating to Nashville.
“What really keeps the Jingle Jam going is the amazing support from our patrons, the local businesses that donate raffle prizes, and the musicians who generously donate their time to perform. It’s that sense of community and care that fuels this event year after year.”
Big Jake Bootstrap (Photo/Chelsea Whitaker)
Over the years, between 30 and 35 different bands and artists have played the benefit, which has been staged at several different locations before settling at Butcher Block Social.
“One of the things I love most is how diverse the lineup is,” Lynch said. “I’m always excited to showcase a variety of genres and styles, and the feedback I consistently hear after each event is that ‘everyone brought something unique to the stage.’ ”
Lynch said the real satisfaction comes after the last notes of the concert have faded away.
“I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the amazing work they’re doing at the shelter, and learning about the community programs that are changing lives. Even the day after the Jingle Jam, they were putting those donations to use immediately, helping people who truly need it,” said Lynch, whose working on a new studio album in Nashville, with two singles set for release early next year.
“I wish everyone could witness that moment and understand just how much their contributions make a difference in such a meaningful, real way.”
Admission to Saturday’s show is free, but donations are encouraged. Checks can be made out to Mel Trotter Ministries.
Those who can’t attend Saturday’s show but want to make a donation can email thejinglejam@gmail.com. A list of urgently needed items can be found online here, along with a link for monetary donations.
A VERY MERRY JINGLE JAM 2024: The Local Spins Playlist
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