One805 Live’s Rock for First Responders concert raised $300,000 to support mental wellness programs for First Responders in Santa Barbara and Los Angeles, as well as musicians who have lost their livelihoods due to recent disasters.

The concert, held at The Granada Theatre March 8, came together in just five weeks after a conversation between Glen Phillips and Kirsten Cavendish Weston Smith, who felt compelled to act swiftly.

“When Glen asked if we should do something, my immediate response was, ‘Let’s do it.’ We booked the theater before we had talent lined up, but the support came flooding in,” Cavendish Weston Smith said.

Phillips reached out to Darius Rucker of Hootie & the Blowfish, who was in London at the time. Rucker and his 18-member band and crew flew in to donate their time and talent to the cause.

The evening also featured performances by Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, and Phillips, creating a lineup of legendary artists who united for the mission.

A highlight of the night was a moving duet between Rucker and Phillips, performing “Three Little Birds,” a Bob Marley song that resonated with the audience.

“Music has always been a healing force,” said Cavendish Weston Smith. “This event wasn’t just a concert; it was a moment for our community to stand together, to remember what we’ve lost, and to find strength in one another.”

The evening’s live auction featured three exclusive guitars, raising significant funds for the
cause: Two Fender guitars, donated by Hootie & the Blowfish drummer Jim “Soni” Sonefeld, whose family includes first responders; and a special One805 guitar, custom-designed by Taylor Guitars, signed by the entire band.

More than 300 complimentary tickets were provided to First Responders, allowing them to enjoy the night alongside their community. Many shared personal stories of how One805’s Mental Wellness Programs had directly impacted their lives.

“Our strike teams included 25 representatives, and so many of them told us they had personally used our mental wellness program,” said Cavendish Weston Smith. “Knowing that this funding will go directly back into helping them makes this all worth it.”

For more information on One805 Live and how to support their ongoing efforts, visit One805.org.