Help Us Save Loretta: Keep The Fighting Side on the Road

Story

Hey everyone, We’re The Fighting Side. An alt-country rock 'n' roll band from St. Louis. We’re reaching out with humble hearts and deep gratitude for all the support our friends, family, and fans have shown us over the years. If you’ve followed us on this journey, you know how much we’ve loved every mile on the road, every note played, and every stage shared with y’all. For the last six years we’ve been tearing up the roads, playing shows in Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, New York, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and more. We’ve logged over 50,000 miles, about 20k of those thanks to our beloved tour bus, Loretta —a 42ft 1993 Blue Bird we’ve called home since 2021. Loretta has been more than just a bus; she’s been our sanctuary on wheels. We built her out with love: convertible benches, shelving, tables, bunks, a kitchen, and a lockable gear storage room that’s practically impenetrable from the outside. She’s taken us safely on over 30 runs, and we’ve shared some of our best memories with her. But on our way to play at Reggie’s in Chicago on Friday night, disaster struck. The engine started knocking and smoking as we pulled off at the Joliet exit. Despite our best efforts, Loretta gave out on us, and we ended up stranded at a gas station. Thanks to some quick calls and amazing people, we made it to the show on time—definitely a rock ‘n' roll moment for the ages. But the morning after, we got the diagnosis: catastrophic engine failure. The old girl threw a rod through the block. Her engine is done. We’ve had to make some tough calls, including canceling the rest of the shows on this run, and we’re facing the reality that getting back on the road is going to be a massive challenge. But we just can't leave her. Not yet. She's not ready. We’ve found that replacing the engine could cost us between $4,000 to $6,000. Buying a new bus or van would be even more expensive, and starting from scratch with another vehicle feels impossible. That’s why we’re asking for your help. We’re launching this GoFundMe to raise the funds needed to save Loretta and get her back on the road where she belongs. We’re incredibly grateful for any amount you can contribute, whether it’s a dollar or a hundred. We’ve got some exciting rewards lined up for those who are able to donate at higher levels: $100: Signed CD, t-shirt, and a handwritten thank you note from the band. $250: Signed CD, t-shirt, a 1-of-1 edition signed 8x10 photo of the band blowing you kisses, and free admission to our next 3 shows in your area! $500: Signed CD, t-shirt, a video of Seth doing a sexy dance, Brad will give you a kiss on the cheek, a full sweaty band hug, and admission to our next 3 shows in your area. $1000: We’ll play a show at your house, your local dive bar, your niece’s bat mitzvah—ANYWHERE you want us! (Ideally, within our regional area, but let’s discuss!) Plus, you get the sweaty hugs and cheek kisses too. Total package! Your support means the world to us, and with your help, we believe we can get Loretta II back on the road just in time for our next run in September. We’re coming to Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, and we want to bring our girl to see y’all, too! Sincerely, thank you all so much for being part of our journey. Making music for you is our dream, and we can’t wait to keep that dream alive with your help. With love and gratitude, The Fighting Side Funds breakdown- Engine Cost $2-3k Labor cost $-2-3k Towing $500 Any extra funds will go into fuel costs! Thank you!