The life of a musician is set to be commemorated this month when the Gem Theater in St. Louis hosts an open house to honor the late Kevin McCreery.
A career that included performing with Tantric and Uncle Kracker had its roots in St. Louis for McCreery, who died in September at the age of 53.
“We recognize all of Kevin’s accomplishments,” St. Louis mayor, Jim Kelly said in a press release. “We’re proud that he comes from St. Louis and that he attended our school system. He was a talented musician and obviously made an impact on a lot of people.”
Many will remember Kevin as a fixture in the local music scene, as his bands Mach, Love Jones and Feeding the Machine enjoy renowned status to those who followed original music in the area during the 1980’s and 1990’s.
“It is heartwarming to see how many people cared about Kevin and his work,” Kelly said. “Whenever we’ve announced this event, there are always many positive comments about Kevin and his talents.”
As his musicianship grew, so did his resume in the music industry.
He gained national and international attention as a member of Tantric and with Uncle Kracker.
In fact, McCreery toured right up until the end of his life, with his final gig with Uncle Kracker falling on August 21, 2017.
The idea for the event came during a retirement luncheon for Greater Gratiot Development, Inc. President, Don Schurr.
City Council members were also in attendance.
“Phil Hanson and I developed the concept of the event,” longtime friend and Love Jones manager, Chris Petras said. “Along with the amazing coordination of Judy Root (Director of the Historical Society) and Minard Shattuck (owner of the Gem Theater). Phil, Judy, Minard, and the City Council made the event a reality.”
The presentation on the life and music of McCreery is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. at the Historical Society.
The celebration of McCreery through his music follows at 3 p.m. in the Gem Theater.
There will also be a special performance of the music of Love Jones and Feeding the Machine including stories behind the music that will be hosted by former band mates, Bruce LaFrance and Fran MacMillian.