Kentucky artists perform tornado benefit concert in downtown Somerset

“It’s just a chance for us to all get together, heal and rebuild,” said Tiffany Finley, executive director of the Master Musicians Festival.

Master Musicians Festival and The Virginia [in downtown Somerset] put on the 606 Strong Benefit Concert. In a region that is hurting, Tuesday’s concert at the theater was all about uplifting people from Laurel and Pulaski counties after an EF-4 tornado caused destruction a week and a half ago.

“And know that they are doing it for a good cause, that somebody will be blessed by them buying that ticket tonight, but there is going to be a smile on their face for giving up that money, but also hearing some amazing music,” said Mayor Alan Keck.

More than 500 tickets were sold as seven performers took the stage.

“I know a guy who had a tattoo shop that it came down. I just want people to know that its somebody out there that is going to lend a helping hand, because that’s what we do as Kentuckians,” Spooky Fox, a performer, said.

Tommy York, an attendee, said he and his friends were excited to hear some local music. They were also supporting their buddy who lost his grandmother because of the tornado.

“We came out for the tornado relief, helping out with that, came for a good time as well, ready to listen to some good music,” York said.

Laurel Lewis, a Laurel County native, said she took her name after her beloved county.

The artist now resides in Nashville and made the trip down for the concert. She said she is hurt by what her community had to endure.

“When I received word that I was asked to do this, I just couldn’t have been more happy because I had wanted to give back to my community in a way that feels good to me and that I know I can do, and what I know I can do is music,” Lewis said.

Tuesday’s concert raised more than $10,000, with proceeds going to the United Way of South Central Kentucky and the United Way of Laurel County, who are already helping those affected.

“We’ve already had phone calls from people who already know they are going to have long-term recovery needs, and we’re excited to have those funds to provide for those,” said Reci Shook, Board President of United Way of South Central Kentucky.