Yonnet and Grammy Nominee Wayna Debut Song at Sickle Cell Benefit

[Washington, DC] Urban Jazz Harmonicist Frédéric Yonnet and Ethiopian-born signer/songwriter Wayna know that music won’t heal the pain of a sickle cell crisis but they’re betting it can raise awareness of the inherited blood condition.

On Saturday, November 19, they will preview their new collaboration at the Third Annual “Mo’ Than Jazz” Sickle Cell Benefit Concert hosted by Florida Avenue Baptist Church (FABC) for the benefit of Faces of Our Children, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, support and funding for the fight against the sickle cell disease.  Yonnet, a Stevie Wonder protégée, and Wayna, a 2009 Grammy nominee, are keeping a tight lip on the specifics of the song. However, it’s expected that Yonnet’s “in your face” approach to the harmonica along with Wayna’s thoughtful lyrics and unpredictable, yet timely phrasing, will create a powerful anthem.  Florida Ave Baptist Church’s choir Adoration will also be featured during the concert.Sickle cell disease affects approximately 15% of African-American children. Another 2 million Americans, or 1 in 12 African Americans, and 1 in 16 Hispanic carry the sickle cell trait. The disease is most prevalent in the African-American community, though individuals of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Central and South American, and Asian Indian heritage can develop the disease.

“If You Have the Trait, Check Your Mate” is the message of the concert. Sickle cell exhibits and screenings will also be provided.  The event is sponsored by UFCW Local 400, and co-sponsored by the DC Commission on Arts and Humanities, Bohemian Caverns and TheRoot.com.

WHEN:
Saturday, November 19, 2011

TIME:
5:00 pm – 5:45 pm – Sickle Cell exhibits & reception
6:00 pm – Concert (doors open at 5:30 pm)

WHERE:
Florida Avenue Baptist Church
623 Florida Ave. NW, Washington, DC

COST:                        
$25 tax-deductible donation

Call 202-667-3409 or visit www.FLAVBC.org to purchase tickets