Chicago’s entertainment community attempted to unite to present an all star concert dedicated to the 21 men and women who died 40 days prior at the E2 and the families they left behind.
Unfortunately the “Triumph over Tragedy” event which occurred March 26, 2003 at the Issac Hayes Restaurant has been marred by controversy since the announcement that it would occur.
According to Chicago community activist, Daryl Mosely, “Several of the families were never informed of this event or invited.” Mosely protested with others outside of the Isaac Hayes early in the week and before the actual show. Appearing before local television cameras, Mosely threatened to return with 4 busloads of protesters “to shut the so-called benefit down.”
Over 400 were allowed into the concert…though approximately 900 showed. City of Chicago Fire Marshal strictly observed fire codes to ensure the safety of those in attendance.
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Civil protesters…news cameras and fire marshals things that would make any event promoter cringe and start pulling plugs. “This event almost didn’t happen and that’s a shame,” stated a still exasperated Ibi Cole, founder of IsmSound.net & the Ism Sound Network., one of the primary developers of the event. “I am very dissatisfied with the conduct of some. As if the protests and fire marshals weren’t enough…we had a serious altercation between two of the performers in the VIP section of the venue.”
About 20 minutes before the end of the concert according to Cole…Jay-Z producer, Kanye West was approached by Cap-1 Clic member, Payroll attempted to hit Kanye with a bottle (it is unknown whether the bottle was Armendale or not). Kanye, whose “College Dropout” album just hit from Roc-a-fella, allegedly wrote a cut for Payroll…..but then sold it to Jay-Z…Payroll got paid for the cut…but, apparently is still pissed.
“This event was an act of solidarity among Chicago’s youth, young adults, peer and elder communities. It commemorated 40 days of mourning for the 21 E2 victims.” said Cole “It was turned into a stage for limelight seekers and used as an arena to settle personal scores by one of the performers. These minor problems do not reflect on those who support the ideals of “Triumph over Tragedy”. We had a wonderful show and were able to raise money and awareness for the victims and families of the E2 disaster.”
For more information on donating to the E2 families go to totbenefit.com.
