On the first anniversary of the death of iconic punk singer Frankie Venom, former Teenage Head bandmates have announced the creation of a benevolent fund for Canadian musicians.
The fund will be used to assist those in the music business with their artistic endeavours by providing guidance to healthier lifestyles in body and mind.
Teenage Head founder Gordie Lewis -- with help from brothers Brian and John Lewis -- said he was inspired to start the non-profit organization after Venom died of throat cancer Oct. 15, 2008.
Venom (born Frank Kerr), along with Lewis, Stephen Mahon and Nick Stipanitz, formed Teenage Head while at Westdale High School in Hamilton in the mid-1970s. The band, which rocketed to prominence after fans rioted to get into their 1980 show at Ontario Place, released a new album featuring Marky Ramone on drums just prior to Venom's death.
The Canadian Musicians Benevolent Fund will be funded through private donations, special events and corporate partnerships. It is intended to support musicians and their families by offering financial planning, cash disbursements and counselling on healthy lifestyles.
Gordie Lewis, Mahon, drummer Jack Pedler and special guests will launch the CMBF today with a benefit concert at This Ain't Hollywood, 345 James St. N. in Hamilton. Tickets are $20 with all proceeds to the fund.
