El Paso musicians and families have a reason to gather this weekend as the city’s beloved post‑rock group Blessed Be Man honors its 20‑year anniversary with a free concert at Rosewood Bar. The event, scheduled for October 17, is more than a celebration of music; it is a call to support the children served by the El Paso Child Crisis Center.
Band founder combines music, education and service
Johnny Lopez, a longtime educator and counselor at an alternative school, founded Blessed Be Man as a one‑man project two decades ago. Over the years the act has grown into a full‑band ensemble, but Lopez’s mission has remained steady: use the power of music to bring hope to the community. “The message has always been one of hope,” Lopez said. “Even the name Blessed Be Man and just to be alive, I’ve always said it is a blessing.”
Lopez has consistently used his platform to promote a respectful, inclusive music scene in El Paso, speaking out against hatred and racism. His dual role as a school counselor gives him daily insight into the challenges faced by at‑risk youth, a perspective that fuels his desire to give back.
Supporting the Child Crisis Center
The Child Crisis Center provides shelter, counseling and basic necessities to children who have experienced trauma. Lopez, who works directly with at‑risk youth, described the center’s work as “children that have gone through a lot of trauma and the things that no children, or really, no adults should go through.” He emphasized that the concert’s purpose is to collect tangible aid for these families.
Concert‑goers are encouraged to bring new clothing, shoes, toiletries and toys. All donations will be delivered to the center after the show, ensuring that the community’s generosity translates into immediate relief for children in need.
Event details
The anniversary show is free and open to anyone 21 years of age or older. Doors open at 9:00 p.m.; the band will begin playing at 10:00 p.m. The venue, Rosewood Bar, is located in downtown El Paso, making it convenient for residents across the city to attend.
Local businesses and families are invited to spread the word and help the band reach its donation goal. By combining a night of music with a charitable mission, Blessed Be Man demonstrates how faith‑based values of service and community can thrive in today’s cultural landscape.
Why this matters for El Paso families
Events like this reinforce the importance of parental involvement and community support for vulnerable children. When local educators and artists join forces, they model the kind of partnership that strengthens families and neighborhoods—core pillars of a thriving community.
For more information about the concert or how to donate, visit the Rosewood Bar’s website or contact the Child Crisis Center directly.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
