A tribute show celebrating the musical legacy of Eric Carmen will be held on November 25, 2023, at the Lakewood Civic Auditorium. The event, titled EC50: A Celebration of Eric Carmen’s Musical Legacy, is organized by Stephen Knill, a Lakewood native and former bassist for Carmen’s 1975 solo debut album.
Knill, a graduate of Lakewood High School in 1972, expressed deep personal significance in returning to his alma mater for this event. “This is incredibly special and totally full circle,” he stated during a call from his home in Raleigh, North Carolina. After considering various venues, Knill’s sister suggested using the auditorium where he spent much of his formative years. “I’ve never really given anything back. I decided I needed to do that and this is it,” he said.
A Musical Tribute to Carmen’s Legacy
The tribute show will feature members of Carmen’s solo-era band, along with special guest vocalists and student musicians from the Lakewood Project. This ensemble includes 47 student musicians and 11 alumni from the Lakewood High School Orchestra. They will perform some of Carmen’s most iconic hits, such as “All by Myself,” “Never Gonna Fall in Love Again,” “Sunrise,” and “Hungry Eyes.”
“We decided this needed to be the show that Eric would do in 2025 if he were here and had pretty limitless resources,” Knill explained. He envisions a full orchestra performing in a venue capable of accommodating 1,800 people, creating an atmosphere befitting Carmen’s celebrated career.
Knill praised the talent within the Lakewood Project. “The band was a bit skeptical until they heard the kids play,” he laughed, adding, “Oh my God, they’re better than us. So it’s a win all the way across the board.” The Lakewood Project is characterized by its unique blend of electric and acoustic strings, electric guitars, keyboards, and drums, allowing for an innovative interpretation of both rock and classical music.
Community and Education Come Together
According to Elizabeth A. Hankins, the director of the Lakewood Project and district orchestra director, the students’ confidence and adaptability are key to their success. “They also perform without a conductor, so the musicians have to work hard to develop a sense of oneness with each other,” she explained. This ability allows them to seamlessly collaborate with professional musicians, making them an ideal choice for the tribute.
The tribute show has been described as “mind-blowing” by Hankins, who views it as the culmination of her 36 years of teaching. “To see this vision come to life feels like a celebration of music, community, and the countless students who have made this journey so meaningful,” she added.
As the November date approaches, excitement builds within the community, reflecting both a love for Carmen’s music and the connection to local history. This tribute promises to be a remarkable event, blending nostalgia with the vibrant energy of young musicians eager to honor a rock legend.
