Star-Studded Concert to Honor Music Producer Wayne Warnecke and Raise Funds for ALS United Greater New York

PURCHASE, N.Y., March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, a fundraising concert for ALS United Greater New York will take place at SUNY Purchase. The star-studded event will honor acclaimed producer and engineer Wayne Warnecke, a Westchester native battling ALS. "Musicians United for ALS," will feature an all-star lineup of musical talent and will raise funds to support those affected by the disease.

Organized by Westchester musician Mickey Rosen, and supported by Title Sponsor The Lasdon Foundation, the evening will be MC'd by Vincent Pastore of The Sopranos and led by celebrated arranger and producer Rob Mathes as musical director. The evening will feature well-known talent including:

• Patty Smyth (Scandal)
• Paul Shaffer
• Rob Thomas (Matchbox Twenty)
• Average White Band
• Lisa Fischer (Grammy Winning R&B Artist)
• James D-Train Williams 
• Bob James (Grammy Winning Artist)
• ED Palermo Big Band 

Additionally, Vaneese Thomas, Wayne's wife and acclaimed R&B/blues vocalist, will perform alongside her sister, Carla Thomas, the "Queen of Memphis Soul," known for hits on Stax and Atlantic Records. The evening's house band includes Shawn Pelton (Saturday Night Live), Will Lee (Letterman), Robbie Kondor, Oz Noy, Paul Shaffer, and Rob Mathes. Several other performers are in discussion and the artists are subject to change.

A silent auction will feature exclusive items, including a signed tennis ball from John McEnroe and guitars signed by Willy Nelson, Buddy Guy, and Joe Bonamassa.

Wayne, known for his work with artists like Chaka Khan, Patti Austin, and Luther Vandross, has been a pillar of the music community for decades. Diagnosed with ALS in 2022, he continues to inspire with his unwavering positivity and contributions to the industry, including producing Vaneese's latest album, Stories in Blue.

Event Details

• When: Tuesday, April 15
• Time: Cocktail Reception 5:30 pm, Performances at 7:00 pm
• Where: The Concert Hall, SUNY Purchase, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY
• Ticket Prices: $215 - $250
• VIP Sponsorships: Available
• Ticket Link: https://alsunitedgreaternewyork.ticketspice.com/a-night-for-wayne 

"The evening will be one of love and joy as we celebrate Wayne and his incredible lifetime of accomplishments. We are grateful to everyone who has agreed to perform and support this concert. We look forward to a full house to raise as much money as possible for the ALS United Greater New York," said Vaneese Thomas.

"We are grateful to be a part of this incredible benefit concert to raise funds and awareness on behalf of the ALS community. Musicians United for ALS is not only a tribute to Wayne, but it's also a tribute to every family impacted by ALS yesterday, today, and tomorrow," stated Kristen Cocoman, President and CEO, ALS United Greater New York.

Platinum Sponsor for the evening is GMG Public Relations. Sponsorship opportunities are available, contact Louis Toscano at 845-507-2885. Updates at https://www.instagram.com/musiciansunitedforals/ or https://www.facebook.com/musiciansunitedforals 

About ALS United Greater New York:
ALS United Greater New York is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with ALS and their families throughout the Greater New York area. For over 30 years, the organization has been committed to empowering the ALS community through a collaborative approach—fostering bold research initiatives, advancing national and state advocacy, and providing comprehensive local care and support.

About Wayne Warnecke:
Wayne Warnecke's career as a prominent figure in the music industry began in his hometown of Mamaroneck, New York. Starting as a drummer at nine and later joining the local band Friction, Wayne's musical journey soared when he became an engineer at Minot Sound Studios in 1981. At Minot he worked with luminaries like Bob James, Luther Vandross, and David Sanborn, cementing his status as a top-tier producer and engineer. His technical prowess and creative insights propelled him through various genres, making significant contributions to the industry.

Wayne's indomitable spirit keeps him active in music, recently producing his wife Vaneese's latest album, Stories in Blue. His enduring influence in the music industry underscores a legacy of resilience, collaboration, and love, continuing to inspire a broad spectrum of artists and fans alike. Wayne story remains a powerful testament to the transformative impact of dedication and passion in the creative arts.

Media Contact:  Risa B. Hoag, GMGPR, 914-996-8100 ext. 1, [email protected] 

SOURCE ALS United Greater New York