By Mike Farragher

Rory Gallagher fans are a fiercely devoted bunch. I got to meet many at the venerable Bottom Line a few years back, when Blackthorn’s Seamus Kelleher staged an ambitious tribute concert that blew the roof off the now defunct club. 

Now his Philadelphia fans are getting in on the action. They will be staging a Rory Gallagher tribute weekend on February 19. 

The afternoon will consist of viewings of concert footage, followed by a loose jam session by his fans. That jam session will center on the harmonica styling of Steve “Soup” Campbell, who blew harp onstage with the guitar legend. 

In the evening, a number of bluesy bands from around the globe will converge on McFadden’s saloon and restaurant (1 Citizens Bank Way) to rock around the clock. Bands include the Rory tribute band Sinnerboy from the U.K. and Defender from Scotland. 

In keeping with the kind heart that Gallagher was known for, the net proceeds will be donated in Rory’s name to the development of Blues’ guitar education for Philadelphia’s underprivileged children. There’s even an opportunity to win a Rory Gallagher custom shop Stratocaster guitar. 

Log onto www.roryinphilly.com for more information.