Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo Honored at WhyHunger's Chapin Awards Gala: A Celebration of Music and Philanthropy
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, a renowned musical duo with a long history of performing, were recently honored at WhyHunger’s Chapin Awards Gala. The event celebrated their impressive career, which includes multiple Grammy Awards and their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The duo has been actively supporting WhyHunger for 30 years, inspired by their connection to the late musician Harry Chapin, a co-founder of the organization.
At the 50th Anniversary Chapin Awards Gala, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo were presented with the ASCAP Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award. They treated the audience to a lively performance of their hit songs 'Love is a Battlefield' and 'Heartbreaker', which received enthusiastic cheers from the attendees at Rose Hall. The gala also featured performances by other notable musicians, including Willie Nile and members of The Fab Faux, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere of the event.
The Chapin Sisters, Abigail and Lily, known for their folk-rock style and vocal harmonies, continue the legacy of their uncle Harry Chapin by supporting WhyHunger. Jen Chapin, daughter of Harry Chapin, is a singer-songwriter who carries on her father's humanitarian work by serving on the board of WhyHunger. The Fab Faux, a Beatles tribute band, captivate audiences with their faithful recreations of The Beatles' intricate studio recordings, showcasing their musical talent without elaborate costumes.
Willie Nile, a respected singer-songwriter from New York, is celebrated for his energetic rock and roll performances infused with folk and punk influences. His poetic lyrics and unwavering dedication to music have earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. Alongside Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, CNN's Laura Coates received the Bill Ayes Social Justice Award for her advocacy efforts and commitment to inspiring change through her work on CNN's "Laura Coates Live."
The gala, held at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City, raised over $600,000 to support WhyHunger's programs in the U.S. and 24 other countries. The funds will aid in providing food assistance, addressing root causes of hunger, and supporting initiatives such as training local farmers and advocating for food workers' rights. The event featured exclusive items for auction, including VIP tickets to see Bruce Springsteen, contributing to the success of the fundraiser and the organization's mission.