Joe Topping wrote "Lord Willing" about a bereaved loved one.  He is donating this download to the Fund as a fitting memorial to the musicians we have lost since Katrina like Barry Cowsill, Scott Sherman (both former bandmates of NOMRF Founder Jeff Beninato), Freddie "Shep" Sheppard, Timothea Beckerman, Dinerral Shavers, Charlie Brent and many other brilliant souls.

About Joe Topping

Joe flew over from Liverpool to walk from Chicago to New Orleans last summer to raise awareness for the New Orleans Musicians Relief Fund.  He walked right through the town where the NOMRF Founders now live. Since he was walking to raise funds and awareness and had never been to New Orleans, Jeff taught him "Walking to New Orleans" and within minutes he was belting out a beautiful version. The Fund met him again three months later and welcomed him with a brass band second line, Wyndham reception, Voodoo Vixens and it still wasn't enough to properly thank him for an astounding effort.

Along the way the BBC, Reuters and other publications covered the walk and gave the Fund vital encouragement.  Joe hopes to get back to New Orleans for the Anti-Versary Download Celebration on 8/24 and visit the city for the second time.
    
He has one of the most beautiful voices I have heard. His songs are delivered with such warmth and sincerity it takes my breath away. Joe is one of the most talented new generation musicians around. I'm thankful that he hails from our shores.

by Chris While

The first time I heard Joe Topping's, "I'd Die Trying," I was literally stopped in my tracks. This is a classic song sung by truly classy singer. My initial question of, would this be a one off great song on his debut album, was blown right out of the water when I heard 'Love, Loss and Alcohol' - it's full of great songs. Joe Topping is a star in the making - we should be very proud he was born on this side of the Atlantic. 

by Julie Matthews