David Krull (the pianist who wrote and played the soundtrack to the Mr. Smith Movie) needs help!
Now he needs our help. The following email showed up in our inbox today:
For those of you wondering where Ive been, and curious as to why your Inbox hasnt been filled with unbelievably hilarious comments, timely information, and incoherent ramblings fromshameless self promotion, I will apologize. Sometimes life takes unplanned turns. My dear friendDavid Krull has been fighting some very serious health issues (that word issues always means something bad!) and his music has taken a backseat to his medical struggles. While he is doing better, there is a long road ahead. And you can help!
On Sunday, March 11th, the Alameda music community will once again gather to aid one of their own in need. Well-known Blues and Boogie piano player David Krull is battling a genetic blood disease that attacks the liver and kidneys. Roosters Roadhouse (1700 Clement Street at Grand,Alameda, 510.337.9190) will host a benefit concert with all proceeds going to Krull. Needless to say, medical bills are adding up.
The doors will open at 3:00 pm; scheduled acts include David and his band, Daniel Castro, The Alameda All Stars and Strawberry Jam. There will be guest appearances by Pat Potter and Clara Bellino, with other artists yet to be finalized. Rumors are that Barrelhouse Chuck and Big Gay Fish will be on hand. The cover charge is $20. CDs and merchandise will be available.
Davids career began in Kansas City and St. Louis before touring the world with Jimmy Rogers. He has played with many of the greats in the blues world, including Johnnie Johnson, Henry Townsend, Hubert Sumlin, Bonnie Raitt and Elvin Bishop. He moved to Alameda ten years ago and has played with a number of local acts. Last year, he released his first solo CD, Cant Let Go.
David Krull has always been willing to donate his talents to benefit shows for local causes and individuals. Now, it is Alamedas chance to return the favor. Please come out in support of David; the fantastic music will be an added bonus! Please pass this on to your friends!
So, there you have it. Please come out and show David some love (and some cash!) and have a great time. If you are unable to attend, but would like to contribute, please contact me and I will be happy to make the arrangements. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.
Much love and peace always,
ROCKO * * * *
If you are in the San Francisco Bay area, please go see this show and help Dave. For those not in the Bay area, as soon as we find out a secure and safe way to donate to Dave's cause we will post it on here.

One thing people can do that will help independent artists, whether they are musicians, writers, painters, filmmakers, or any number of other artistic endeavors, is to buy products directly from the artist. With the web, this is easier to do now than ever before. When artists sell their works at retail outlets, they get a fraction of the sale, if anything at all. When they sell from their website, they may actually make enough money to support themselves at their craft. Buying direct from artists is one of the easiest ways out there to support the arts.