Help Lee Keep East Bay Music Alive

Have you ever been to a Bang the Bay show? If you have, you may have heard of one of the hardest working individuals in the local, East Bay music scene, Lee Hoffman.

Lee began producing Solar Van Saturdays during the height of the Covid pandemic when all the clubs were closed down and safe places to hear live music were scarce. Lee bought a used van & with the help of his friend Injun Ron, and using his own money, Lee installed his van with enough solar panels and batteries to produce free live shows for the community to enjoy during a very challenging time.

During the last few years, Lee has booked hundreds of local & touring bands as well as given new bands their first shows with his Solar Van. Lee has funded these shows out of his own pocket with very little help from anyone since their inception.

Lee provides a complete back line (drums, PA, bass and guitar amps, mics & cables) which he owns & maintains so visiting bands do not have to haul their equipment to his shows. Solar Van Saturdays is completely plug & play thanks to Lee. Solar Van shows also benefit bands who may not have the ability to draw a crowd yet, as well as the people who cannot afford $10. or $20. for one of Lee’s shows in an indoor venue.

Although Lee loves doing Solar Van Saturdays and rarely asks for help, after funding these shows himself for years, he now really needs us. After all he’s done to support our music community, now is the time for the music community to step up for Lee. Here’s why:

1. Annual van fees, registration, smog, insurance etc. $2,000.

2. Annual gas & fluids $1,000.

3. Van repair & maintenance, oil changes, solar panels $1,000.

4. Musical instrument repair & maintenance $1,000.

In addition, Lee’s solar van is used only for Solar Van Saturdays. I know Lee would be extremely grateful if we all help him out with his much needed Go Fund Me. Help keep his valuable community service going twice a month & please give what you can.

Sincere thanks!

Patricia Rodriguez

(on behalf of Lee Hoffman)