Sep
11,
2026
Blues for the Brave featuring Kelly Bell Band, Sweet Leda & Lower Case Blues
6:00 pm - 11:00 pm
BLUES FOR THE BRAVE 2026
Music with a Mission
Presented by The VA WAY
Benefiting NAMI Howard County Veteran Peer Support Groups & Promoting NAMI Homefront
Benefiting NAMI Howard County Veteran Peer Support Groups & Promoting NAMI Homefront
📅 Friday, September 11, 2026
📍 Reckless Shepherd Brewing Co.
8895 McGaw Road • Columbia, Maryland
📍 Reckless Shepherd Brewing Co.
8895 McGaw Road • Columbia, Maryland
EVENT SCHEDULE
🕕 6:00 PM – Doors Open
🎧 DJ Roberts kicks off the evening, setting the tone with great music and high energy as guests arrive.
🤝 Visit our Veteran & Mental Wellness Resources, featuring organizations dedicated to supporting veterans, military families, first responders, and the community. Meet local nonprofits, learn about available resources, and discover ways to get involved.
🎟️ Enter our raffles throughout the evening for your chance to win incredible prizes, including a beautiful PRS Guitar, generously donated by our community partners.
🇺🇸 Throughout the evening we’ll recognize special guests, veterans, community leaders, sponsors, and VIPs whose dedication continues to strengthen our communities and support those who serve.
7:00 PM – Live Music Begins!
Featuring performances by:
- Kelly Bell Band
- Sweet Leda
- Lower Case Blues
- Special Guest Artist Patrick Rainey
OUR MISSION
Blues for the Brave is more than a concert—it’s a community coming together through the power of live music.
Presented by The VA WAY, this annual event raises awareness for veteran and community mental wellness while benefiting the NAMI Howard County Veteran Peer Support Groups and promoting NAMI Homefront, a nationally recognized program supporting military families.
Last year’s event helped launch a new NAMI Veteran Peer Support Group in Anne Arundel County. This year, we’re building on that success by bringing together musicians, veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, community partners, and music lovers for one unforgettable evening.
Our goal is simple:
- Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
- Encourage meaningful conversations.
- Connect people with valuable local resources.
- Celebrate those who serve our country and our communities.
- Remind everyone that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
Whether you’re a veteran, active-duty military member, first responder, healthcare worker, musician, caregiver, family member, or simply someone who loves great live music…
There’s room at the table for us all.
KELLY BELL BAND
Headliner
For more than 30 years, the Kelly Bell Band has redefined the blues with their signature “Phat Blues“ sound—a powerful blend of blues, funk, soul, rock, hip-hop, and R&B.
Originally serving as the backing band for rock legend Bo Diddley, Kelly Bell and his band have grown into one of the most respected live acts in the Mid-Atlantic, earning 12 consecutive “Best Blues Band” honors, multiple Maryland Music Awards, and a loyal fan base across the country.
Known for explosive performances, infectious grooves, and world-class musicianship, the Kelly Bell Band turns every show into an unforgettable celebration.
Beyond the stage, Kelly has proudly performed around the globe on numerous USO Tours, bringing music, hope, and encouragement to America’s active-duty military and veterans stationed around the world.
His personal philosophy says it best:
“There’s room at the table for us all.”
Style
Phat Blues • Blues • Funk • Soul • Rock • Hip-Hop
Official Links
🌐 Website
https://kellybellband.com
https://kellybellband.com
Facebook
https://facebook.com/kellybellband
https://facebook.com/kellybellband
Instagram
https://instagram.com/kellybellband
https://instagram.com/kellybellband
▶️ YouTube
https://youtube.com/@kellybellband
https://youtube.com/@kellybellband
SWEET LEDA
Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Julie Cymek, Sweet Leda has become one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier live bands by delivering electrifying performances that blend funk, soul, blues, rock, and jam music into one unforgettable experience.
Known for incredible musicianship, soaring vocals, audience interaction, and nonstop energy, Sweet Leda has built a reputation for turning every show into a celebration.
The band has shared the stage with artists including:
- Galactic
- 311
- Dumpstaphunk
- Butch Trucks
- Oteil Burbridge
- Luther Dickinson
- Maceo Parker
- Jefferson Starship
Whether performing at festivals or intimate venues, Sweet Leda continues to earn praise as one of the region’s most exciting and entertaining live acts.
Style
Funk • Soul • Blues • Rock • Jam
Official Links
🌐 Website
https://sweetleda.com
https://sweetleda.com
Facebook
https://facebook.com/sweetleda
https://facebook.com/sweetleda
Instagram
https://instagram.com/sweetleda
https://instagram.com/sweetleda
▶️ YouTube
https://youtube.com/@sweetleda
https://youtube.com/@sweetleda
LOWER CASE BLUES
Since 2003, Lower Case Blues has been delivering authentic, road-tested blues with a modern edge.
Founded by lifelong friends Jake Banaszak and B.J. Muntz, the band has earned a reputation as one of the hardest-working blues acts in the Mid-Atlantic, combining traditional blues, Southern rock, funk, and improvisational jam music into every performance.
Over two decades of touring, they’ve shared stages with artists including:
- Buddy Guy
- Blues Traveler
- Robert Randolph
- Kenny Wayne Shepherd
- Grand Funk Railroad
Their gritty musicianship, powerful songwriting, and dynamic live shows continue to win over audiences throughout the region.
Style
Blues • Blues Rock • Funk • Jam • Americana
Official Links
🌐 Website
https://lowercaseblues.net
https://lowercaseblues.net
Facebook
https://facebook.com/lowercaseblues
https://facebook.com/lowercaseblues
Instagram
https://instagram.com/lowercaseblues
https://instagram.com/lowercaseblues
▶️ YouTube
https://youtube.com/@lowercaseblues
https://youtube.com/@lowercaseblues
PATRICK RAINEY
Special Guest Artist
Baltimore saxophonist Patrick Rainey is one of the region’s most respected and versatile musicians.
A former member of The Bridge and a returning Artist-at-Large at the Annapolis Baygrass Music Festival, Patrick is known for his soulful improvisation, incredible versatility, and ability to elevate every performance he joins.
At Blues for the Brave, Patrick will perform throughout the evening alongside Kelly Bell Band, Sweet Leda, and Lower Case Blues, creating one-of-a-kind collaborations that make every show unique.
His passion for music, community, and bringing people together perfectly reflects the spirit of Blues for the Brave.
Style
Saxophone • Blues • Funk • Jam • Rock • Americana
Official Links
Facebook
https://facebook.com/patrickraineymusic
https://facebook.com/patrickraineymusic
Instagram
https://instagram.com/patrickrainey
https://instagram.com/patrickrainey
ABOUT THE VA WAY
The VA WAY is a Maryland-based nonprofit dedicated to improving the mental health and social wellness of veterans, military families, first responders, musicians, and the broader community.
Through Veteran Peer Support Groups, Mental Health First Aid, Narcan education, community outreach, wellness initiatives, and music-driven events like Blues for the Brave, The VA WAY believes every conversation, every connection, and every song has the power to change a life.
Learn More
🎟 TICKETS
Blues for the Brave
Friday, September 11, 2026
🎟 Purchase Tickets:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/blues–for–the-brave-2
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/blues–for–the-brave-2
💙 WEAR YOUR BLUE
Wear your favorite BLUE in honor of our veterans, active-duty military, first responders, military families, and everyone affected by mental health challenges.
Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier community—one conversation, one connection, and one song at a time.
Bring your people. Wear Your Blue. We’ll take care of the rest. 💙
BLUES FOR THE BRAVE 2026
Music with a Mission
Presented by The VA WAY
Benefiting NAMI Howard County Veteran Peer Support Groups & Promoting NAMI Homefront
Benefiting NAMI Howard County Veteran Peer Support Groups & Promoting NAMI Homefront
📅 Friday, September 11, 2026
📍 Reckless Shepherd Brewing Co.
8895 McGaw Road • Columbia, Maryland
📍 Reckless Shepherd Brewing Co.
8895 McGaw Road • Columbia, Maryland
EVENT SCHEDULE
🕕 6:00 PM – Doors Open
🎧 DJ Roberts kicks off the evening, setting the tone with great music and high energy as guests arrive.
🤝 Visit our Veteran & Mental Wellness Resources, featuring organizations dedicated to supporting veterans, military families, first responders, and the community. Meet local nonprofits, learn about available resources, and discover ways to get involved.
🎟️ Enter our raffles throughout the evening for your chance to win incredible prizes, including a beautiful PRS Guitar, generously donated by our community partners.
🇺🇸 Throughout the evening we’ll recognize special guests, veterans, community leaders, sponsors, and VIPs whose dedication continues to strengthen our communities and support those who serve.
7:00 PM – Live Music Begins!
Featuring performances by:
- Kelly Bell Band
- Sweet Leda
- Lower Case Blues
- Special Guest Artist Patrick Rainey
OUR MISSION
Blues for the Brave is more than a concert—it’s a community coming together through the power of live music.
Presented by The VA WAY, this annual event raises awareness for veteran and community mental wellness while benefiting the NAMI Howard County Veteran Peer Support Groups and promoting NAMI Homefront, a nationally recognized program supporting military families.
Last year’s event helped launch a new NAMI Veteran Peer Support Group in Anne Arundel County. This year, we’re building on that success by bringing together musicians, veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, community partners, and music lovers for one unforgettable evening.
Our goal is simple:
- Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
- Encourage meaningful conversations.
- Connect people with valuable local resources.
- Celebrate those who serve our country and our communities.
- Remind everyone that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
Whether you’re a veteran, active-duty military member, first responder, healthcare worker, musician, caregiver, family member, or simply someone who loves great live music…
There’s room at the table for us all.
KELLY BELL BAND
Headliner
For more than 30 years, the Kelly Bell Band has redefined the blues with their signature “Phat Blues“ sound—a powerful blend of blues, funk, soul, rock, hip-hop, and R&B.
Originally serving as the backing band for rock legend Bo Diddley, Kelly Bell and his band have grown into one of the most respected live acts in the Mid-Atlantic, earning 12 consecutive “Best Blues Band” honors, multiple Maryland Music Awards, and a loyal fan base across the country.
Known for explosive performances, infectious grooves, and world-class musicianship, the Kelly Bell Band turns every show into an unforgettable celebration.
Beyond the stage, Kelly has proudly performed around the globe on numerous USO Tours, bringing music, hope, and encouragement to America’s active-duty military and veterans stationed around the world.
His personal philosophy says it best:
“There’s room at the table for us all.”
Style
Phat Blues • Blues • Funk • Soul • Rock • Hip-Hop
Official Links
🌐 Website
https://kellybellband.com
https://kellybellband.com
Facebook
https://facebook.com/kellybellband
https://facebook.com/kellybellband
Instagram
https://instagram.com/kellybellband
https://instagram.com/kellybellband
▶️ YouTube
https://youtube.com/@kellybellband
https://youtube.com/@kellybellband
SWEET LEDA
Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Julie Cymek, Sweet Leda has become one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier live bands by delivering electrifying performances that blend funk, soul, blues, rock, and jam music into one unforgettable experience.
Known for incredible musicianship, soaring vocals, audience interaction, and nonstop energy, Sweet Leda has built a reputation for turning every show into a celebration.
The band has shared the stage with artists including:
- Galactic
- 311
- Dumpstaphunk
- Butch Trucks
- Oteil Burbridge
- Luther Dickinson
- Maceo Parker
- Jefferson Starship
Whether performing at festivals or intimate venues, Sweet Leda continues to earn praise as one of the region’s most exciting and entertaining live acts.
Style
Funk • Soul • Blues • Rock • Jam
Official Links
🌐 Website
https://sweetleda.com
https://sweetleda.com
Facebook
https://facebook.com/sweetleda
https://facebook.com/sweetleda
Instagram
https://instagram.com/sweetleda
https://instagram.com/sweetleda
▶️ YouTube
https://youtube.com/@sweetleda
https://youtube.com/@sweetleda
LOWER CASE BLUES
Since 2003, Lower Case Blues has been delivering authentic, road-tested blues with a modern edge.
Founded by lifelong friends Jake Banaszak and B.J. Muntz, the band has earned a reputation as one of the hardest-working blues acts in the Mid-Atlantic, combining traditional blues, Southern rock, funk, and improvisational jam music into every performance.
Over two decades of touring, they’ve shared stages with artists including:
- Buddy Guy
- Blues Traveler
- Robert Randolph
- Kenny Wayne Shepherd
- Grand Funk Railroad
Their gritty musicianship, powerful songwriting, and dynamic live shows continue to win over audiences throughout the region.
Style
Blues • Blues Rock • Funk • Jam • Americana
Official Links
🌐 Website
https://lowercaseblues.net
https://lowercaseblues.net
Facebook
https://facebook.com/lowercaseblues
https://facebook.com/lowercaseblues
Instagram
https://instagram.com/lowercaseblues
https://instagram.com/lowercaseblues
▶️ YouTube
https://youtube.com/@lowercaseblues
https://youtube.com/@lowercaseblues
PATRICK RAINEY
Special Guest Artist
Baltimore saxophonist Patrick Rainey is one of the region’s most respected and versatile musicians.
A former member of The Bridge and a returning Artist-at-Large at the Annapolis Baygrass Music Festival, Patrick is known for his soulful improvisation, incredible versatility, and ability to elevate every performance he joins.
At Blues for the Brave, Patrick will perform throughout the evening alongside Kelly Bell Band, Sweet Leda, and Lower Case Blues, creating one-of-a-kind collaborations that make every show unique.
His passion for music, community, and bringing people together perfectly reflects the spirit of Blues for the Brave.
Style
Saxophone • Blues • Funk • Jam • Rock • Americana
Official Links
Facebook
https://facebook.com/patrickraineymusic
https://facebook.com/patrickraineymusic
Instagram
https://instagram.com/patrickrainey
https://instagram.com/patrickrainey
ABOUT THE VA WAY
The VA WAY is a Maryland-based nonprofit dedicated to improving the mental health and social wellness of veterans, military families, first responders, musicians, and the broader community.
Through Veteran Peer Support Groups, Mental Health First Aid, Narcan education, community outreach, wellness initiatives, and music-driven events like Blues for the Brave, The VA WAY believes every conversation, every connection, and every song has the power to change a life.
Learn More
🎟 TICKETS
Blues for the Brave
Friday, September 11, 2026
🎟 Purchase Tickets:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/blues–for–the-brave-2
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/blues–for–the-brave-2
💙 WEAR YOUR BLUE
Wear your favorite BLUE in honor of our veterans, active-duty military, first responders, military families, and everyone affected by mental health challenges.
Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier community—one conversation, one connection, and one song at a time.
Bring your people. Wear Your Blue. We’ll take care of the rest. 💙