Rap star Beanie Sigel has expressed support for past R&B artists by making a donation to the Rhythm & Blues Foundation's Doc Pomus Financial Assistance Program. Sigel contributed $3,200 to the scheme, which provides emergency financial assistance to past R&B artists when they require help with medical and living expenses, at the Foundation's Pioneer Award after party. His donation prompted production duo Dre & Vidal (Andre Harris and Vidal Davis) to make a gift of $6,400.
Sigel says: "I never realized who these artists were or the history and importance of their contributions to music. Tonight also showed everyone the impact the work of the R&B Foundation has on the artists. I also issue a challenge to all my musical peers to step up and follow our lead."
The Foundation's executive director Kayte Connelly said: "Mr. Sigel's actions were a tremendous surprise. The Foundation is very grateful to Mr Sigel, Mr Harris and Mr Davis for their generosity and the challenge that they issued to their peers."