Prepare to be inspired by a story that proves music can be the ultimate therapy—especially when it comes from an electric guitar!
Meet a war veteran who traded in his boots for a set of six strings and discovered that shredding solos can heal wounds deeper than any bandage. This isn’t just a tale of rock ‘n’ roll redemption; it’s about how a little bit of distortion and a whole lot of heart can transform a life.
John Bohlinger Leads a Star-Studded Benefit Concert for Veterans with PTSD
John Bohlinger was brought on board to lead the house band for “Rock to Remember,” an inspiring benefit concert aimed at raising funds for veterans struggling with PTSD. This meaningful event was a collaboration between Guitars for Vets and Gibson Gives, held at the iconic Gibson Garage in Nashville, where the spirit of music and philanthropy came together.
The concert featured an impressive lineup of musicians, including renowned artists like Jared James Nichols, Dave Mustaine, Kirk Fletcher, and Emerson Hart, all of whom lent their talents to support the cause.
As the house band leader, Bohlinger orchestrated a night filled with electrifying performances and heartfelt moments, showcasing the healing power of music. The event not only provided a platform for incredible musical talent but also raised awareness and funds to help veterans reclaim their lives through the gift of music.
With every chord played and every note sung, “Rock to Remember” reminded us of the resilience of those who have served and the transformative impact of community support. It was a night to remember, uniting musicians and veterans in a powerful celebration of hope and healing.
Versatile Musicians Unite for the 'Rock to Remember' Concert
John Bohlinger carefully selected a team of intuitive and versatile bandmates to join him for the “Rock to Remember” concert, ensuring they could seamlessly support a range of music genres with minimal rehearsal time.
Among his talented recruits was Marine veteran Logan Hatcher, whose unique perspective and experience added depth to the ensemble. The musicians demonstrated remarkable adaptability, often improvising and adjusting their performances on the fly, sometimes meeting for the first time only during soundcheck or even right onstage.
This spontaneous approach not only showcased their exceptional skills but also created a dynamic and energetic atmosphere that resonated with the audience. Their ability to connect and collaborate in real time highlighted the power of music to unite individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The synergy among the band members contributed to an unforgettable night of heartfelt performances, proving that true musicianship shines brightest in moments of creativity and collaboration.
Cesar Gueikian Channels Marty Friedman’s Solo for Dave Mustaine
In a thrilling moment during the “Rock to Remember” concert, Gibson’s Cesar Gueikian took the stage to play Marty Friedman’s iconic solo right in front of the legendary Dave Mustaine.
This unexpected performance showcased Gueikian’s impressive guitar skills and his ability to channel the essence of Friedman’s intricate playing style. With Mustaine watching intently, the atmosphere was electric as the audience eagerly anticipated the outcome of this high-pressure moment.
Gueikian’s confident execution not only honored Friedman’s original work but also highlighted the camaraderie and respect among the musicians on stage. This memorable instance added to the concert’s excitement, reminding everyone of the powerful connections forged through music.
Healing Through Harmony
The concert was a resounding success, raising vital funds to support veterans and showcasing the therapeutic power of music in healing.
John Bohlinger, reflecting on his nephews’ combat experiences, highlighted the profound impact that such support can have on those who have served. He emphasized that music can be a powerful tool for recovery, helping veterans cope with the challenges they face after returning home.
The event not only provided financial assistance but also fostered a sense of community and understanding among attendees. Bohlinger’s heartfelt remarks served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the importance of standing by them in their journey toward healing.
The concert reinforced the idea that music can unite people and create lasting change in the lives of veterans.
The electric guitar, with its powerful and evocative sound, proved to be a symbol of resilience and a tool for healing in the lives of war veterans. Here are 3 guitars we know you’ll surely love for your playing journey:
Epiphone Broadway, Wine Red
FEATURES: Archtop hollow body with vintage aesthetic
OTHER INFO: Equipped with Alnico Classic humbuckers for smooth, full tones
- Stunning wine red finish with elegant gold hardware
- Warm, resonant sound ideal for jazz and blues
- Comfortable neck for effortless chord transitions
- Limited versatility for heavier music genres
- Larger body size may not suit smaller players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Squier Classic Vibe '60s Jazzmaster LRL, 3-Tone Sunburst
FEATURES: Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups
OTHER INFO: Vintage-style tremolo and floating bridge for expressive playability
- Authentic retro aesthetics with a 3-tone sunburst finish
- Excellent tone versatility for surf rock, indie, and jazz
- Smooth and comfortable "C"-shaped neck profile
- Slightly heavier than other models in its range
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Single-Cut with Bigsby, Airline Silver
FEATURES:
- Dazzling vintage-inspired design.
- Crystal-clear retro electric guitar sound.
- Solid construction and smooth playability.
- It is challenging to adjust the bridge, especially during string changes.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rock to Remember:
Music and Healing for Veterans with PTSD
The “Rock to Remember” concert was a powerful testament to the healing power of music and the resilience of veterans facing PTSD.
Led by John Bohlinger, the event brought together an array of talented musicians who not only entertained but also united in support of a noble cause.
The spontaneous performances and camaraderie among the musicians showcased the deep connections that music can foster, transcending backgrounds and experiences.
Bohlinger’s reflections on the importance of supporting veterans highlighted the critical role that the community plays in their healing journey. By raising vital funds and awareness, the concert not only provided immediate assistance but also inspired ongoing support for those who have served.
“Rock to Remember” served as a reminder that through music, we can create lasting change and hope for veterans in need.
I wonder how much was raised during the ‘Rock to Remember’ concert, and more specifically, how the funds will be allocated to assist veterans with PTSD. It’s commendable that musicians are leveraging their talents to support such a crucial cause. I would be interested in knowing more about the impact of this event. Robert Emery, could you provide more details on the success metrics of this initiative?
pretty cool that music can help people like that, healing and all. i mean i knew tunes could chill you out but doing stuff for vets with ptsd? that’s next level. good on john bohlinger and the crew for pulling off such a neat event.
Absolutely! Music has such a powerful effect on the mind. Really inspiring to see artists use their talents for a cause.