George’s to host benefit for Big Smith bass player

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Musician friends and fans of the band Big Smith will come together this weekend to help out their cousin and friend, Bill Thomas, Big Smith’s bass player. Thomas suffered a stroke in January while playing a show at Cherokee Casino in West Siloam Springs.

“Bill of Health Benefit: A Concert Event for Big Smith’s Bill Thomas” will be held from 3 p.m. until after midnight Sunday (March 4), at George’s Majestic Lounge in Fayetteville. The suggested donation is $10.

Sunday’s benefit — which will raise money to help offset some of the expense of Thomas’ medical treatment — is a music-packed affair.

With simultaneous, back-to-back performances on the lounge and garden stages, the lineup of musicians includes talent from the region and beyond. Big Smith will perform with Reed Herron, of Speakeasy, filling in on bass. Fayetteville musicians include Charliehorse, Shannon Wurst, Sarah Hughes Band, Guta, and 3 Penny Acre. Blue Mountain of New Orleans, Speakeasy of Springfield, Mo., the Ben Miller Band of Joplin, Mo., and The Honey Dewdrops of Charlottesville, Va., will also perform.

The up-to-date line-up and band schedule can be found on the Facebook event page.

Those unable to attend can still contribute to the cause by visiting the Big Smith band website. Donations and well wishes may also be mailed to Cousin Bill, 2020 N. Douglas Ave., Springfield, Mo., 65803.