Downtown Vancouver comes alive every first Friday of the month during the First Friday Art Walk hosted by Vancouver’s Downtown Association, where local vendors and artists showcase their work. Among the artists at this event are the blues/roots duo David Benedicktus and Clancy Kelly of the Martin Street Mules. This musical duo is playing to make a difference. Every tip they receive is donated to Council for the Homeless (CFTH), supporting vital housing and homelessness services in our community.
David and Clancy have been playing music together for years. They often perform at open mics and local venues, including their upcoming Tech Center Thursday Farmers Market session on September 12, 2024.
The duo focuses on a unique musical style called roots music. Their love for this genre began in their adolescence, and their dedication to the craft is evident, which they have been honing since their retirement. David’s musical journey is intertwined with his upbringing in a socially conscious family in Los Angeles. His parents’ involvement in the civil rights and affordable housing movements profoundly influenced his desire to give back to the community and work for positive social change.
Clancy, who is also passionate about supporting people in Vancouver, shares, “I see the need in the community right now. Homelessness is one of those problems that’s not easily solved, and one way to help is by donating to the cause and inspiring others to donate as well.”
David’s involvement with CFTH began many years ago. In his retirement from a career in mental health, David began teaching community education classes at Clark College. Clancy’s spouse, Tracy, was then the manager of community education programs at Clark College, and together they created a community education class called Citizen Salon. The class brought in local speakers to present on current community topics, including CFTH staff members to speak about homelessness. Through this class, they were able to educate and discuss various community programs related to housing, recovery, and mental health. Working with community programs like CFTH strengthened their commitment to the housing justice cause.
David and Clancy consider the historical significance of the blues and roots songs they play. These songs are embedded with themes of human rights and resilience, which resonate deeply with the duo. Clancy’s vocals and guitar and David’s harmonica bring these messages to life, helping to raise awareness and support for housing and homelessness.
“Music helps!” David shares. The Martin Street blues/roots duo reminds people of the power of togetherness and caring for one another. Because of their performances and donations, housing and homelessness services and resources are being highlighted in our community. Thank you, David and Clancy, for your contributions. It takes everybody in our community to make home possible. You are an inspiration!
About Roots Music
Roots music is a blend of music, including bluegrass, gospel, old-time music, jug bands, Appalachian folk, blues, Cajun, and Native American music. It is considered “roots music” because it served as the basis of music later developed in the United States, including rock and roll, rhythm and blues, and jazz.
