Proceeds from the very first Bubba Bash show, including event merchandise, auctions and online donations, totaled over $50,000 and went to Cedars Sinai Hospital in Neil’s memory. The Bubba Bash, dubbed as such in Neil’s nickname, was a joint effort of YYNOT’s Tim Starace and Neil Peart’s long time friend and security provider, Michael Mosbach. Together, they assembled an all-star lineup of Neil’s friends, each generously making a special appearance:

Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater, The Winery Dogs)
Frank Bello (Anthrax)
Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall, Overkill)
Jon Dinklage (Clockwork Angels string ensemble)
Joe Bergamini (drum instructor, author)
John Wesley (Vertical Horizon)
Seven Antonopoulos (Opiate for the Masses)

The dedication and professionalism of the guest artists was in abundant supply. Having never played together and with only one quick run-through with each of the players the day of the show, it was incredible to witness the magic, energy and love brought to the stage with YYNOT performing “La Villa Strangiato,” featuring special guest Mike Portnoy, as seen in this video:

Respected as one of the premier bands to perform Rush tributes, YYNOT is also an original prog-rock band with 3 highly-acclaimed albums of their own. Having scheduled a YYNOT show on January 7th, 2023 at the Keswick Theatre in Glenside, PA, it was a fitting occasion to honor Neil’s legacy. With Billy Alexander on guitar, Mike Hetzel on drums, Patty Pershayla on vocals and Tim Starace on bass, along with distinguished guest players, the sold out Bubba Bash was truly a triumphant night.

For donations to Cedars-Sinai in memory of Neil Peart:

https://giving.cedars-sinai.edu/neilpeartbraintumorresearch

For more Bubba Bash Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcC4zDJp4X2H3rUdFs8tTQy4sPOZzKWFL

For Bubba Bash Merch: https://www.yynotband.com/store

YYNOT: https://www.yynotband.com/