Local Music Lovers Rally to Support Angels

By Maria W. Long

This fall, our vibrant city transformed into a haven for music lovers. Weekend after weekend, legendary performers filled local venues, offering residents an abundance of unforgettable concerts. Among the season’s standout events was an all-star tribute to the late Brian Wilson and the music of the Beach Boys, held at the Granada Theatre on Saturday, September 27. Organized in the wake of Wilson’s passing in June, the benefit raised an impressive $100,000 for two local nonprofits: Adam’s Angels, serving the city’s unsheltered neighbors, and the Surfrider Foundation of Santa Barbara, dedicated to protecting our oceans and preserving our cherished coastline.

The concert, spearheaded in part by the founders of Adam’s Angels realtors Adam McKaig and Melissa Borders, was sure to be a success. In earlier years, the two financed Adam’s Angels with profits from their real estate transactions. Today, they continue to contribute, but the organization officially is now a 501(c)3. Adam and Melissa still contribute fiscally and physically. Whether buying the turkeys for their famous Thanksgiving meals or purchasing and handing out rain ponchos and jackets to our unsheltered neighbors on the streets, as always the two magnificently manage to walk these parallel universes with grace. 

The Beach Boys sold-out show radiated excitement – perhaps fueled in part by the buzz lingering from other vibrant performances that week. Inside the Granada, the atmosphere was electric. Credit goes to volunteer producers Kevin Wachs, Laurie Kirby, and Maitland Ward, whose passion for community and music brought this celebration of a generation’s soundtrack to life. As the evening opened, Wachs and Adam McKaig spoke about the mission behind the event, then presented a Community Angel Award to board member Father Larry Gosselin.

Throughout the night, The Tribe – an LA-based collective known for performing concerts in support of meaningful causes – delivered spirited renditions of beloved Beach Boys classics. The tribute united generations of artists, family members, and longtime collaborators to honor Wilson’s legacy. Wilson Phillips and The Honeys, accompanied by the Folk Orchestra of Santa Barbara, performed orchestral interpretations of signature Brian Wilson compositions. The evening’s emotional high points included appearances by Carnie Wilson, Chynna Phillips, and Wendy Wilson – each paying heartfelt homage to their father. Wilson’s grandchildren – Lola Bonfiglio and Leo, Beau, Jesse, and Will Knutson – joined the family onstage, continuing the lineage of musical tribute.

Rising talent also had its moment. Hunter Hawkins stunned the crowd with a breathtaking performance of “Don’t Worry Baby,” signaling the emergence of a star to watch. And no benefit concert would be complete without the generosity of music legends Kenny Loggins and David Pack who lent their voices to the cause. The dazzling La Bohème Dancers added sparkle and theatrical flair. The night’s biggest surprise came with an unannounced appearance by 1980s pop icon Taylor Dayne, who delivered a powerful rendition of her hit “Love Will Lead You Back.”

It was an unforgettable evening – one that blended music, community, and compassion in perfect harmony. Those inspired to continue the spirit of giving are invited to support Adam’s Angels during their celebrated Thanksgiving feast at the First United Methodist Church, featuring organic Shalhoob turkeys and performances by exceptional local musicians. 

Please join Adam’s Angels or be an Angel steward of our seas. And if you find yourself alone this Thanksgiving, please know you are always welcome to join Adam and his many Angels for a delicious celebration of friendship with an extra helping of love. 

To support Adam’s Angels, visit www.adamsangels-sb.org. To support the Surfrider Foundation, visit surfrider.org.