Preview of Cow Bop’s Route 66 trip

The Monterey County (Calif.) Herald previewed Cow Bop‘s third cross-country trip on Route 66, which begins in Chicago on May 12.

Along the way, they’ll play a few booked gigs as well as pull over on the side of the road and perform like gypsy jam masters. All proceeds from their performances, as well as pledges for their trip, will go toward the JazzMasters Workshop founded by Forman, which provides music training and education for youth nationwide. […]

New faces and new places are part of the fun for this year’s event. Unlike previous challenges, where the band left with only $100 and played for their meals and gas, this time they’ve booked several club gigs along the way to support their efforts. Proceeds from the shows will also benefit the music program.

“We’ll be playing along the street and whenever we see people. We’ll pass the hat,” he said. “It’s about spreading the word of music and kids, and empowering local musicians and music communities to take care of this important cultural asset.” […]

The most they’ve collected is $20,000 on one challenge. This year, they have matching grants and Forman is hoping to raise as much as $25,000 on the road, for a total of $50,000.

Cow Bop’s Route 66 Challenge page, including gig schedule, is here. A road journal page has been set up here.