Jay Bennett Foundation Launches

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From the press release:

On May 24, 2009, award-winning multi-instrumentalist and producer Jay Bennett passed away. Although Jay is probably best known for his work in Wilco, he was also a very sought-after producer, collaborator and solo artist, and was the owner of the Champaign, IL-based music studio, Pieholden Suite Sound.

On the one-year anniversary of Jay’s passing, his family and friends announce the creation of The Jay Bennett Foundation—an organization supporting music and education. The foundation is spearheaded by Jay’s brother, Jeff Bennett, and Jay’s mother, Jan — two of Jay’s biggest fans.

The Jay Bennett Foundation will launch on May 24 on JayBennett.org, Facebook (facebook.com/jaybennettfoundation) and Twitter (@JayBennettFdn). On July 10, fans will also be able to support the JBF by downloading the album Jay was completing at the time of his death. The download of Kicking at the Perfumed Air is free, but donations are accepted and will benefit the foundation or one of its partner charities. Kicking at the Perfumed Air will also be available to purchase as a CD via the site on July 10, with a percentage of the proceeds going to the Foundation.

“Those of us who loved Jay lost a son, a brother, a collaborator and a loyal friend. The world lost a gifted musician, thoughtful song-writer and uniquely creative force in the studio who was always working to make music better,” Jeff Bennett said. “This album is part of a larger effort to honor Jay’s memory and enhance his legacy by exposing more people to his music and by supporting charitable efforts to make the world a better place.”

You can download an MP3 from the album here:

http://rockproper.com/jay-bennett/audio/kicking-at-the-perfumed-air/03_twice_a_year.mp3

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