BOISE, Idaho — A Sunday night show is a staple for many local bands. But Boise's bands have one less venue to play at after fire forced a west Boise watering hole to close last month.
The community is coming together to help Willi B's Saloon get back on its feet after having to shut down from serious fire damage.
Support has crescendoed for the Willi B's, and its owner Steve Carper, since the bar caught on fire July 7.
"When the fire happened at Willi B's, a lot of musicians started talking about what we can do to help," Dave Ficks, a local drummer and one of the fundraiser's organizers said.
Local bands decided to raise the volume - and raise some money for Willi B's through a benefit concert in Meridian Sunday night.
"We're so excited to give back because of everything Steve has done for this community," Crystal Arnold, lead vocalist for the Stylus Down Band and one of the concert's organizers said.
The well-known watering hole is renowned for its live music and for giving local bands a place to launch their career.
"Our band started out there," Ficks said. "And [Steve] just lets you keep coming back and playing, and lets you build your craft."
A GoFundMe page has also been launched to help Willi B's rebuild and reopen.
Another benefit concert will feature six local bands and is scheduled for August 24th from 1-9 p.m. in Eagle at 3430 E. Chinden Blvd. More information about the upcoming benefit concert and ways to support the local saloon can be found on the Friends of Willi B's Facebook page.