Kickoff LGBTQ+ Pride season on Friday, June 28 with our monthly Songwriter Sanctuary concert series featuring San Diego's finest songwriters. This month, we'll invite three local LGBTQ+ acts to perform in a Nashville-style round, sharing the stories and inspirations behind their beautiful songs. Hosted by the legendary Jeff Berkley.Songwriter Sanctuary LGBTQ+ Pride Edition Featured Artists:Ben Parks is a San Diego based indie pop singer-songwriter. Originally a pastor’s kid from the south, he developed his roots in Gospel music, honing in a mastery of intimate piano melodies and hauntingly passionate vocals. Over the past few years, Ben has wandered new territory and established an attractive alt. pop/rock sound bordering the likes of Phil Collins, MUNA, The 1975, and Maggie Rogers. His latest single “Why Does Everybody Leave?”, simultaneously invokes reflection and release for its listeners, adding Ben’s name to a list of “Sad Gay Pop” artists that know how to make you feel. Virr also found his musical beginnings in a church setting, singing in choirs across his hometown of Jacksonville, Florida. Initially influenced by artists like Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, and Coldplay, Virr went onto join the Navy in 2009, where he was exposed to an even broader range of music from around the world. Since 2014, Virr has been based in San Diego and has performed his music across the country. Virr utilizes his LGBTQ+ identity as a tool for connection, expressing himself with honesty and rizz (charisma). RhythMx is an act of ever-evolving magic, featuring live and electronic elements with songs that explore themes of transformation.This is an amazing series in a beautiful and affirming space, not to mention a wonderful opportunity to see these local LGBTQ+ artists perform their original works in an intimate setting. Come show some love-is-love, and help us celebrate!Event Details:Location: Normal Heights United Church, 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego, CA 92116Time: Doors at 6:30 p.m., Show at 7 p.m.Suggested Donation: $10 (All ages welcome). Donations are graciously accepted to support the artists directly. While we encourage generous donations within your capacity to support our artists, no one is turned away for lack of funds.Food and Drink: Enjoy snacks and beverages available for purchase thanks to Duck Foot Brewing Company and Flying Embers. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food to enjoy during the show.Accessibility: For any accessibility requests, please contact Molly Lorden at molly(at)nhunited(dot)org.We invite the community and music lovers to join us for this special evening that celebrates the rich tapestry of local music.