Tonic Ball Rocks Fountain Square

The Kinks, Stevie Wonder, and U2 may seem like unlikely concert mates. But pair that trio of acts with three Fountain Square venues, 47 local bands, and one great cause, and the 11th annual Tonic Ball event turned out to be one great party. Tonic Ball, which benefits Second Helpings, a local food rescue and distribution organization, rocked Fountain Square this past Friday, Nov. 16.

Founder Ken Honeywell passed on the chairman title to video producer and musician Matt Mays. This change in leadership allowed only for improvement. Honeywell, who still donned a white embroidered “Tonic Ball” suit on stage while performing with his band Yoko Moment, looked right at home at Radio Radio, site of the show’s kickoff performances. Next door at Fountain Square Theatre, guests enjoyed the tunes of U2 while just across the street, the sounds of Stevie Wonder echoed throughout the room at White Rabbit Cabaret. The streets were blocked off due to flocks of fans bouncing from venue to venue.

This sold-out event continued into the early-morning hours as crowds enjoyed both the bands and the chance to raise money for a good cause. In the past 11 years, Tonic Ball has taken in more than $100,000 for Second Helpings. Currently, due to donors like Tonic Ball, that nonprofit org is able to distribute around 50,000 meals per month. Now that sounds like a good reason for a party.

Pictured first to last: Ken Honeywell and his band Yoko Moment rocked Radio Radio crowd with their rendition of The Kinks’ “Lola”; Mars on the Moon covered U2 at the Fountain Square Theatre; and Brian Deer and the Achievers also played at Radio Radio.