Author: Joe H
I attended Chime band’s Stand by Me benefit concert on January 7, 2023, which was held at Resonance Events in Bellevue, Washington. Chime, made up largely of Microsoft engineers, hosted the night in support of underprivileged children in China. Joining Chime throughout the night was an eclectic mix of other local performers: Melody Zhao, The Lychee Band, and others.
The night opened with a crowd pleasing burst of energy from the suona. This traditional Chinese instrument immediately excited the crowd, introducing a joyful, celebratory atmosphere. (Stand By Me, started with "Fairy" )
The night opened with a crowd pleasing burst of energy from the suona. This traditional Chinese instrument immediately excited the crowd, introducing a joyful, celebratory atmosphere. Chime played a number of songs, both original and covers, to start the show. Seamlessly, other performers joined the stage often with one or more instrumentalists from Chime remaining on various instruments. Such was the atmosphere, that it truly felt like one group playing throughout the night with multiple singers. Throughout the night, local performers came up to perform classic Chinese ballads as well as covers ranging from Bob Dylan to Ben E. King. Being a fan of Faye Wong, I particularly loved a cover of one of her hits, but I was truly in awe of a high school student’s (Audrey Wang) stunningly soulful rendition of Coldplay’s Yellow.
I was truly in awe of a high school student’s stunningly soulful rendition of Coldplay’s Yellow. (Performed by Audrey Wang)
However, as the spirit of love and friendship continued, I found myself completely sucked into the night. I could feel the joy with which the band played, and the crowd’s sense of connection to the music.
To be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived. As the first few songs were played, I felt the crowd’s energy and thought perhaps I was missing a shared cultural connection. However, as the spirit of love and friendship continued, I found myself completely sucked into the night. I could feel the joy with which the band played, and the crowd’s sense of connection to the music. Three plus hours later, and I was truly glad I stayed to join in the celebration.
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