Debbie Harry to headline Lennon tribute concert

Debbie Harry will perform at the 34th annual John Lennon charity tribute concert in New York City in December.

The announcement on Wednesday by the non-profit Theatre Within came a day before what would have been Lennon’s 74th birthday.

Other performers include Kate Pierson of the B-52s, Joan Osborne, Marshall Crenshaw and Ben E. King. The event will be held on December 5 at Symphony Space.

Yoko Ono said in a statement: “I share Theatre Within’s belief that music and the performing arts have a special power to bring people together and inspire us to make a positive difference. It’s beautiful that the Tribute continues to have such a powerful impact in John’s memory.”

Rock photographer Bob Gruen, who photographed Lennon during the years he lived in New York, will be honoured with the first-ever John Lennon Real Love Award. Proceeds will benefit Lennon and Ono’s Spirit Foundation.