We arrived on Saturday to a recording studio filled with tea party organizers, news reporters, radio personalities, long time music industry veterans, singers, song writers, musicians, you name it. All of which had gathered to support the cause of freedom and liberty for this great republic. Everyone was there to contribute their talents and energy to a song that will help raise money for the organization AmericasMightyWarriors.org, which was founded by Debbie Lee who’s son Marc Allen Lee lost his life in Iraq heroically saving the lives of his buddies. Marc was the first U.S. Navy Seal killed in Iraq.

(Above photo by Mark Bernhardt)

The entire event was so heart warming because you could feel the comradery as soon as you walked in. Everybody was friendly beyond what we've experienced in other public social atmospheres. You were greeted with hugs from complete strangers, as well as handshakes. It was as if we had traveled to attend a long awaited family reunion. 

Lloyd also greeted everyone warmly. I personally had followed Lloyd’s participation from the Tea Party Express tours and was well aware of his music and talent, but getting to finally meet him face to face was sobering and awesome. He is a passionate man filled with love for America and the future of our children. Allie Anderson and I were honored to get the opportunity to contribute vocal solo’s to the project, and were beyond excited to find out that Lloyd will also be featuring our new song “Freedom” on the new “Tea are the World” compilation CD. The release of the new CD will be announced soon. 

(Photo: Allie singing as Lloyd looks on)

We also had the pleasure of meeting up with legendary lead guitarist John Rainey of Foghat. I had a ton of fun listening to John tell stories of life on the road, all the bands he’s played with (and for -- almost everyone under the sun including Rat, Poison, Head East, Stryper, just to name a few). We also met Fred Polnisch “Uncle Sam” who travels the New York Tea Party’s and various colleges across the country as Uncle Sam. Believe me, when you meet Fred you ARE meeting Uncle Sam! He knows his stuff and literally becomes the Uncle Sam character anytime he chooses to turn it on. Fred and I ended up at John Rainey's house where I was able to play John’s custom built Anderberg guitar…. and boy am I jealous now! It was a blast to see a shred master like John tear it up at warp speed the way he does. I even learned a few tricks!

It was a fantastic trip on many levels. A time to network, meet other likeminded people, and reflect on the opportunities that are out there to make a difference in our lifetime for the cause of freedom and liberty in this country. I strongly encourage you to read Lloyd’s official article regarding the event. (see below)

- Joe Horn

(Photo Nita Horn - Fred Polnisch "Uncle Sam")