Grateful Dead Tribute, Cubensis, Drummer Has Stage 4 Colon Cancer
Band to hold Stevestock Benefit July 5th to Raise Money for Medical Expenses
After 18 years of performing with the Grateful Dead tribute, CUBENSIS, drummer Steve Harris has been forced to miss months of performances while battling Stage 4 colon cancer. To offset his medical bills, the rest of the band is pulling together to present a benefit concert on July 5 dubbed “Stevestock-A Barefoot Benefit.” The benefit festival will include a number of diverse performers including Moonalice, Jason Sinay, Hempstring Orchestra and Cubensis.
The event, being held at the Golden Sails Hotel in Long Beach, CA, will also feature a silent auction of Grateful Dead-related memorabilia, including original works by area artists and collectibles garnered from years of Grateful Dead tours.
- Steve Harris (Photo by Ebb Eskew)
Steve Harris has been drumming for Cubensis since the summer of 1992. Although born in Anaheim, California, Steve grew up in northern Illinois. He began playing alto and baritone saxophones at 12, and began exploring drums at the age of 16. Steve played in several southern California heavy rock bands, including Diamond Lane and Code 3 in the late 80’s before joining Cubensis. After 10 years with Cubensis, Steve became one of the primary vocalists in the group and continues to be today. Steve’s influences on drums include Buddy Rich, John Molo, Joey Jordinson, Bernard Purdy, Vinnie Coliuta and Dave Weckl. Vocally he is influenced by Jerry Garcia, Levon Helm, Otis Redding and Smokey Robinson.
Since 1987, Los Angeles-based Cubensis has carried the torch in celebration of one of America’s most beloved touring bands, the Grateful Dead. Cubensis sets out to re-create the Grateful Dead experience by emulating the sounds of Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, and the rest of the legendary San Francisco jam band. Cubensis plays completely spontaneous shows covering all eras of the Grateful Dead, and no night is ever the same. Cubensis is far more than just your standard cover band as they bring the magic and sounds to those longing for the live vibe that only the Grateful Dead was able to deliver.
STEVESTOCK, a benefit concert for Cubensis drummer Steve Harris, Friday July 5
at 7pm. Golden Sails Hotel, 6285 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, CA.
$15 minimum donation at the door, 21 and over.
