It was 20 years ago next Wednesday (October 20th) when Paul McCartney, David Bowie, Eric Clapton, The Who, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, Elton John, Billy Joel and others came together at the six-hour Concert for New York City at Madison Square Garden.
The major event was organized by Paul McCartney. There were over 5,000 police officers and firemen who attended the benefit that day.Proceeds were given to the families of police and fire fighters who were killed in the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.
The event raised over $35 million. Here’s a look at who performed at the historic concert:
- David Bowie – "America" and "Heroes"
- Bon Jovi – "Livin' on a Prayer," "Wanted Dead or Alive" and "It's My Life"
- Goo Goo Dolls – "American Girl" and "Iris"
- Billy Joel – "Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway)" and "New York State of Mind"
- Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy – "Hoochie Coochie Man"
- Melissa Etheridge – "Come To My Window" and "Born to Run"
- The Who – "Who Are You," "Baba O'Riley," "Behind Blue Eyes" and "Won't Get Fooled Again"
- Mick Jagger and Keith Richards – "Salt of the Earth" and "Miss You"
- James Taylor – "Fire and Rain" and "Up on the Roof"
- John Mellencamp – "Peaceful World," and, with Kid Rock, "Pink Houses"
- Elton John – "I Want Love," "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters," and, with Billy Joel, "Your Song"
- Paul McCartney – "I'm Down," "Lonely Road," "From a Lover to a Friend," "Yesterday," "Freedom," which he wrote for the event, "Let It Be" and "Freedom" (reprise) -- This performance led McCartney to form a band, which he still has to this day, and resume touring after not doing so
[Source: Classic Hits Today]