Kinston concert to benefit veterans-based charities

On Tuesday, country/Americana music artists Kevin Montgomery and Kaci Bolls will be performing at the House of Wang restaurant in Kinston.

The show is part of the Montgomery and Bolls “50 States in 50 Days” tour, said show organizer and Kinston businessman, Ashe Exum Jr. Along with spreading the word about their music, the shows are also fundraisers fortwo charities in need.

 “A friend of mine in Ohio — who also happens to be a friend of Kaci Bolls — told me about this tour that was raising money for veterans-based charities,” Exum said. “They needed a sponsor for the North Carolina date, so I agreed to sponsor them.”

According to Exum, 25 percent of the proceeds from the show will be split between two charities: The Wounded Warrior Project and the UK Sands charity.

The Wounded Warrior Project aims to help veterans by enlisting the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women, helping severely injured service members aid each other and to provide unique programs and services to meet the needs of severely injured service members.

The UK Sands charity provides support for bereaved parents and their families.

After Exum agreed to sponsor the show, he contacted his friend Bill Tsao, owner of the House of Wang in Kinston.

“I’ve known Bill since I was 12 years old,” Exum said. “I told him we needed a venue for this show, and he immediately offered the House of Wang.”

Kevin Montgomery’s first album “Fear Nothing” was released by A&M Records in 1994, and 18 months of touring with Sheryl Crow and David Crosby followed. His songs have been covered by Martina McBride and Juice Newton, and he performed on Leanne Womack’s hit album “I Hope You Dance.” Montgomery is currently touring to promote is 2008 album “True.”

Kaci Bolls is an in-demand demo singer in Nashville, singing the demos for songs that have been recorded by artists such as LeAnn Rimes, Carrie Underwood, Julie Roberts and Sara Evans. Her new release, “1929” is available for download from the iTunes store and amazon.com.

Exum said there will be a small admission charge and donations are welcome.

“The costs of touring are high when you factor in gas and lodging,” Exum said. “But Kaci and Kevin have set a goal to raise at least $350 for the charities at each show.”

According to Exum, the show will start at approximately 8:30 p.m. After their sets the artists will sign CDs and take pictures with fans.

“If you can’t make it to the show, you’re welcome to stop by the House of Wang anytime before Tuesday to make a donation,” Exum said.

The House of Wang is located at 710 W. Vernon Ave.

Jon Dawson can be reached at 252-559-1083 or jdawson@freedomenc.com. Check out his blog at jdawson.encblogs.com.