Rock icons lead all-star band raising more than $350,000 for music education through Adopt the Arts
PALM SPRINGS, CA — March 2, 2026 — A fortunate sold-out crowd gathered Monday night at the historic Plaza Theatre for the Adopt the Arts Sound & Vision Awards, an unforgettable evening celebrating rock legacy, musical mentorship and the next generation of artists.
The event honored Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees Paul Rodgers (Free, Bad Company) and Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath), bringing together an extraordinary, experienced lineup of musicians who donated their time and talent to support Adopt the Arts, the nonprofit dedicated to restoring and protecting music education in public elementary schools.
The evening opened with a moving candlelight procession by the children from the Adopt the Arts Angels Honor Choir, who filled the aisles carrying electric candles while performing an original, classical style arrangement by Matteo Zarcone blending “All Right Now” by Free and “Changes” by Black Sabbath. Moments later, the audience erupted when a surprise video greeting from Ringo Starr appeared on screen to welcome guests and kick off the night.
Driving the entire show from behind his drums was another Rock Hall inductee Matt Sorum, Founder of Adopt the Arts and the evening’s musical director, who powered both sets without ever leaving the kit.
“Rock ’n’ roll can still change lives,” said Sorum. “The artists who came together tonight did it for the kids of Adopt the Arts — because the gift of music is something worth paying forward.”
The first half of the show celebrated the iconic, hits of Bad Company with an all-star lineup. Corey Taylor and Lzzy Hale opened with “Bad Company,” followed by Glenn Hughes performing “Can’t Get Enough.” Charlie Starr delivered “Run With the Pack,” while Lzzy Hale took the spotlight on “Shooting Star.” Corey Taylor returned for “Feel Like Making Love.”
When Paul Rodgers himself joined the band, the spellbound fans jumped out of their seats. This was his first live performance since 2022. He performed two songs, “Rock ’n’ Roll Fantasy,” then all the musicians returned for a triumphant finale of “All Right Now”.
Reflecting on the evening and the cause behind it, Rodgers spoke about the power of music to inspire future generations. “I felt such a mighty wave of love and respect from the crowd and top-level musicians that I got to play with. The wait to return to the stage was worth it. IF this was my last live performance, I am happy it was for the children of Adopt the Arts, I am at peace with that.”
The second half of the program honored the thunderous legacy of Black Sabbath. Lzzy Hale delivered “Symptom of the Universe,” followed by Charlie Starr on “Children of the Grave.” After a standing ovation welcome, Geezer Butler joined the band onstage. Glenn Hughes performed “N.I.B.”, while Lzzy Hale returned for “Neon Knights.” Corey Taylor then led detonating performances of “Paranoid” and the night’s epic finale, “War Pigs.”
Reflecting on the evening and the mission behind it, Butler shared a personal story about how music first entered his life.
“I want to thank Matt and Adopt the Arts for honoring me and for supporting such a great charity that brings joy to so many kids,” Butler said. “I got my first guitar when I was 11 years old — it only had two strings because that’s all my brother could afford. I learned Beatles melodies on those two strings, and when my other brother later bought me a full set, it changed my life. That’s why programs like this matter — because one instrument can change everything.”
During the evening, both honorees were presented with the Sound & Vision Award in recognition of their enduring impact on rock music and the generations of artists they have inspired. Paul Rodgers and Geezer Butler each delivered heartfelt and profound remarks reflecting on their musical journeys, the importance of music education, and the powerful spirit of the evening.
Backing the performances was an all-star band featuring Nuno Bettencourt, fresh off his Grammy win for his “Changes “live performance, Phil X, Robert DeLeo, Steve Stevens, Mike Mangan, Stevie Salas, and Paul Ill.
Beyond the music, the evening delivered powerful results for the cause. More than $350,000 has already been raised, with additional contributions still coming in.
Highlights of the live auction included two extraordinary pieces of rock history donated by Gibson Gives — a Gibson Les Paul guitar and a stage-played, hand-painted tambourine signed by Paul Rodgers, along with a bass guitar signed by Geezer Butler — which together generated $60,000 in spirited bidding.
The silent auction was packed with one-of-a-kind rock memorabilia and fine art, including a signed Sound & Vision event poster and guitar, as well as striking Black Sabbath fine art pieces by Glen Wexler and Shepard Fairey, among other collector items.
Due to overwhelming interest, the online auction has been extended through March 17 at 12:00 PM PT, with bidding open at givebutter.com/c/soundvision.
Participating artists all donated their time and talent to support the mission of Adopt the Arts.
For one remarkable night in Palm Springs, rock legends and the artists they inspired shared the same stage — helping ensure the next generation of musicians will have the opportunity to find their own voice.
For more information, Laurie Baker, Adopt the Arts Foundation, info@adoptthearts.org
