A concert is being held in memory of Aaron Vasquez at The Abbey on Saturday afternoon.
The concert is free for all who attend, but The Abbey suggests a donation of $10 from everyone at the door. The money will be given directly to the Vasquez family.
All of the bands playing in the event are from Memphis and the surrounding area. They all knew Aaron and if they did not perform with him personally, they have witnessed his talents first hand.
Luke Kadlececk, event coordinator for The Abbey, set up the "In Memory of Aaron" benefit concert because music was a big part of who Aaron was.
"He was one of the most positive persons in the local music scene and so it only seemed natural in order to commemorate that, we hold an event where any band of any genre can come and play," Kadlececk said. "But also an event for people who love music and loved Aaron can celebrate his life through a positive music event."
Nathan Moody, a local musician, wanted to do anything he could to commemorate Aaron's life.
"I wanted to honor the life of Aaron the way he would want us to - with a show," Moody said.
More than 150 people have already confirmed their attendance via Facebook, but Kadlececk expects to see upwards of 200 or more people come through the doors throughout the day during the seven-hour event.
Sophomore music business major, guitar player and lead vocalist for J is for James, James Lott believes the venue will be packed.
"Hopefully we pack the place," Lott said. "Aaron hung around multiple different types of people, so I think a lot of people will turn out."
However, The Abbey only holds about 200 people. But Kadlececk wants everyone who knew Aaron, even briefly, to come out and show support.
Kadlececk said there would be all sorts of music played from screamo to indie rock to metal and genres in between. It is an event for all types of music lovers.
"I expect to see a very diverse crowd," Lott said. "But that was the person Aaron was, regardless we hope everyone comes out and has a great time."
The bands that are playing are doing it free of charge because they want to pay their respects to Aaron.
"We just want to show our respects to Aaron," Lott said. "I saw him play, he saw me play. So we want to honor him."
Kadlececk said for people who are interested, but cannot make Saturday's event, Aaron's band is playing at Brinson's downtown on April 19 from 5-9 p.m. to raise money for the family as well.
The doors open at 3 p.m. for the "In Memory of Aaron" benefit concert with the first band going on at 3:30 p.m. The last band will take the stage around 10 p.m. The Abbey is located at 1015 S. Cooper St., which is at the corner of Cooper Street and Walker Street. The venue is in the basement of Lifelink Church.
