Street Performer Drums Up Cash For Charity

Street performers bring us many different types of skills and abilities. From musicians to magicians to dancers they generally have more skills and abilities than the rest of us that enjoy taking a break from whatever we may be doing to stop and enjoy their show. While on a recent weekend getaway to Tacoma Washington, Brent the videographer and his wife were enjoying a walk along the waterfront when he could hear some drumming off in the distance. Background audio boosted by some quality amplifiers, Phil Coury aka “George Jetson” was drumming out the tune Beautiful Stranger by Madonna. Always enjoying performers and musicians skills, Brent stopped and decided to record a little of the performance. George noticed Brent was recording him with a GoPro camera and instantly showed appreciation and excitement that he was being caught live. After a couple minutes George halted his performance to chat with Brent and filled him in a little bit about his background as well as actually thanking Brent for recording him. At first when George stopped his show, Brent was thinking he was going to be asked to donate into a drum at the front of Georges setup which was converted to a donation basket. This was definitely not the case. George began explaining a little about himself, and his purpose in putting on these shows. George is originally from Cocoa Beach, Florida but now resides in Northeast Tacoma, Washington. After attending high school he went on to study at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Adventuring through life George mentioned he had been homeless at one point and still suffered chronic pain from past injuries. Having no family near by, and becoming quite lonely along with his daily pain George began drumming for a cause. Building his portable drum kit stage, he now tows it to different venues to perform and raise money for Network Tacoma which helps the homeless of Tacoma. George also mentioned being active drumming helps to ease the chronic pain which he endures. At 61, “Keeping moving is key “ says George. Always remember, when you stop to enjoy the beautiful skills that street performers bring us, be sure to show your gratitude. Whether they are performing to pay their bills or to help others in need, they work hard. Please be grateful.