Iconic comedian Dave Chappelle has hosted a massive benefit concert in support of the victims of the recent Ohio shooting, with the likes of Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, and more in attendance.
Earlier this month, the world watched on in horror as two mass shootings rocked the US in the space of just two days. While 22 were killed during an incident in El Paso, Texas, another 10 were slain in a shooting in Dayton, Ohio just 13 hours later.
While response to the incidents was swift, the usual scapegoating soon took place, with violent video games being blamed, and even heavy metal copping some heat.
Now, Ohio native Dave Chappelle has held a huge benefit concert for the victims of the Dayton shooting, inviting the likes of Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, and more.
Taking place on Sunday, the Gem City Shine event occurred one day after Chappelle’s 46th birthday, and on the same day that Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley declared August 25th “Dave Chappelle Day”.
Check out footage of Dave Chappelle at the Gem City Shine event:
As the Dayton Daily News reports, the free event boasted a headline performance from Stevie Wonder, while Kanye West brought his Sunday Service to the city to perform a number of tracks, including a cover of Elton John’s ‘I’m Still Standing’.
Meanwhile, the likes of Chance The Rapper, Talib Kweli, Teyana Taylor, and Thundercat also appeared, while comedian Chris Rock and Michael Che were also spotted in the crowd of 20,000.
“Listen, we’ve been through a tough time,” Dave Chappelle said to the crowd. “There have been tornadoes, there’s been Klan rallies, there’s been shootings — but we’re still here and we’re still strong.
“And the only way — but not the only way — but the best way that we can honour our fallen is by getting up better than we were before.”
“We will not let those people die in vain,” he concluded. “They’re our heroes, they are our friends. This is our city. Gem City, shine. Let them know!”
Check out footage of Kanye West and his Sunday Service:
