Studio 52 is a community artist space located in the heart of Allston, and is proud to support the Boston music scene and local artist community.
People love to talk about the arrogance and attitude of people from Boston, but one thing is undisputed — when one of our own is in need, the entire city comes together to help out.
That point is illustrated once again this week as a GoFundMe campaign created to help buy Keytar Bear a new amp — with a modest opening goal of $500 — has skyrocketed to raise nearly $10,000 for the street performer who was attacked by a group of New Hampshire teenagers on Saturday (June 17).
Coincidentally, the campaign was started a day prior by Eric Williams of Boston’s North End, who saw him perform days before the attack at Boston Tech Jam.
Williams says he noticed the run-down equipment Keytar Bear was using at the gig, and thought he could use a boost. Williams did not know that shortly after the Tech Jam appearance, Keytar Bear was harassed, assaulted, and robbed by a group of youths near Faneuil Hall. In the attack, the group reportedly damaged Keytar Bear’s amp, hurled racial epithets, and took the money collected at that afternoon’s performance.
“For all of the entertainment Keytar Bear provides this city, I want to donate a newer, more powerful stage monitor to his cause,” Williams wrote on GoFundMe, adding that he put the first $200 into the campaign. “The funds from this campaign will be used to purchase a new speaker, a protective case and some more durable audio cables. Any remaining money will be sent to Keytar Bear via paypal to his manager Laura Marquis who I’ve been in contact with through Facebook, text and e-mail.”
Earlier today, Williams says a new speaker and cover was purchased, and will arrive on Friday. The remaining money raised was sent to Keytar Bear’s manager.
And that figure is expected to increase. As of press time, Williams’ campaign has raised $9,050 by 426 people in just five days.