THE HELLCAT SAINTS – Featuring BILLY IDOL, DUFF MCKAGAN, GILBY CLARKE, And More Perform At Rhonda’s Kiss Benefit

Rock icons The Hellcat Saints performed at the inaugural celebration of Rhonda’s Kiss–a foundation which raises funds for cancer patients who can’t afford treatment. The all-star benefit concert at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles (November 3) featured performances from some of the most influential and respected musicians in rock. An array of music and entertainment industry talent attended Rhonda’s Kiss which brought a new element of excitement in the benefit world with the goal of becoming a recurring event in Los Angeles. All proceeds from the concert and silent auction will be donated to City of Hope in Los Angeles, a leading research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases.

The first-ever Los Angeles celebration exceeded all expectations. Stand-up comedian Bill Burr performed a rousing short comedy set and served as host. Following Burr’s performance, Kyle Stefanski (Rhonda’s son) addressed the crowd of music-lovers, introduced the Rhonda’s Kiss foundation and their mission to help those who receive a cancer diagnosis. The night was highlighted by a stellar line-up of live performances from some of the most exciting and respected artists in rock. The Hellcat Saints–a multitude of illustrious rockers–performed a hard-hitting and musically diverse all-star concert. The Hellcat Saints aka Billy Idol, Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction), Kesha, Juliette Lewis (Juliette & The Licks), Duff McKagan (Velvet Revolver, Guns N’ Roses), Dave Kushner (Velvet Revolver), Gilby Clarke (Guns N’ Roses), Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray), Josh Freese (NIN, Devo, A Perfect Circle), Donovan Leitch, Billy Morrison (Billy Idol, The Cult), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol) and Jamie N. Commons thrilled the sold-out crowd with a selection of hits in addition to a memorable performance by special guest Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top).

Guests were treated to a silent auction, a talent meet-and-greet as well as an open bar and appetizers from Wolfgang Puck. Upstairs a VIP gifting lounge from Double Platinum (Grammy Foundation, VH1 Save the Music, Sundance Film Festival) featured luxury products from Monster headphones, Von Zipper eyewear, Slow Watch timepieces, Ax + Apple jewelry, Arbonne skincare and more for attendees to enjoy.  
 
“The event was an inspiring tribute to my mother’s legacy,” said Kyle Stefanski, Rhonda’s son. “The effort of all those involved, and the energy of the crowd made the evening an amazing success. My family is grateful to all of those who made it possible to raise funds to help those less fortunate who receive a cancer diagnosis and need help with treatment and care.”
 
In 2014, Rhonda Stefanski was diagnosed with stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. While she lost her battle, one of the greatest gifts she left was to create Rhonda’s Kiss an event to raise money to help those who receive a cancer diagnosis, but may be unable to make ends meet for treatment and support. Rhonda’s Kiss is supported by the Marc A. and Rhonda L. Stefanski Foundation, a recognized 501(c)(3). For more info and to make a donation visit Rhonda’s Kiss.

(Photos: Joe Kohen)