Firemen by Day, Rockers by Night: Chicago Area Firefighters Rock to Raise Money for Charity with Benefit Show

Chicago, IL, February 11, 2011 --(PR.com)-- What started as an excuse for a few Chicago area firemen to play fun Irish party music with family and friends has quickly turned into a wildly popular band, offering an escape from job-related stress and a chance to support causes close to their hearts.

Red Rebel County was started on a whim by Chicago Firefighter Douglas Crowley (bagpipes), his younger brother Mark (vocals), and fellow firefighter Rocco Padula after an invitation to play an annual St. Patrick’s Day parade party on the south side of Chicago in 2009. Despite their humble beginnings, the band has performed for sold-out crowds around the Midwest, and at prestigious benefit shows for the Chicago Police and Fire Departments. Red Rebel County has also become a way for Douglas and Rocco to relax when they are not battling dangerous fires on the job.

Crowley never dreamed that the band would strike such a chord with their audience. When asked why he thinks Red Rebel County is so popular, Crowley attributes it to the party-like atmosphere that is created when all nine band members get up on stage. "This band is here to make sure that every single person in the audience has a good time. You can come to a Red Rebel County show knowing you will walk away with a smile on your face. We always give 110% and it keeps people coming back for more."

Prompted by the recent loss of three firefighters in the line of duty in December, Douglas and Rocco are answering the call to aid their co-worker’s families. On Friday, March 11th, (9PM) the band will host their first benefit show to raise funds for the Ignite the Spirit Foundation at Joe’s on Weed Street in Chicago. This is a 21 and over show, the cover is $5, and proceeds from the show will go directly to Ignite the Spirit. "We are honored to have the opportunity to assist our fellow firefighters and their families who have sacrificed so much,” says Padula.

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About Red Rebel County – Red Rebel County is a nine piece band that pays tribute to Dropkick Murphys and Flogging Molly. The band is comprised of Douglas Crowley (bagpipe), Rocco Padula (bass guitar), Danny Sullivan (rhythm guitar), Luke Cunningham (bagpipe), Quin Cunningham (banjo/mandolin), Lucy Duke (fiddle), Rob Medinger (drums), Mark Crowley (vocals), and AJ O'Simek (lead guitar).

Check out the Red Rebel County website at www.redrebelcounty.com for photos, live show recordings, videos, upcoming show dates, and bio information.