Road Angel Project is the ongoing series of fundraising releases spearheaded by vocalist and songwriter Inara George, of The Bird and The Bee. Benefiting the Sweet Relief Musician Fund’s COVID-19 Fund, Road Angel Project: Volume 4 is scheduled for release on Nov. 20th and features a track that also serves as a posthumous tribute to Los Angeles musician Tony Fernandez, performing here as Mr. Banjo.

“Give It Some Time” will be included on a posthumous Mr. Banjo album being prepared for a 2021 release, but right now, it’s part of a bigger picture. The world has been shocked by the devastating effects of COVID-19. We are aware of the enormous medical and financial burden that COVID-19 is having on the music community and we are actively taking steps to provide assistance where it’s needed most. Due to massive cancellations, artists are struggling to find the means to make ends meet during these unprecedented times.

Fernandez passed away July 1st, 2020, at age 56. He spent much of his life in the L.A. music scene, playing in punk bands throughout the ’80s as a bass player, front man, and all-around personality. After finding sobriety and serenity, Fernandez spent his later years with a revived approach to his songwriting. “He could play anything with strings and frets,” said his widow, Stacy.

In this recording, a duet with co-writer Sarah Devincentis, “Give It Some Time” is a beautiful, bittersweet tune. A fellow survivor, Devincentis said the song is “definitely about a dream. Half yourself, half somebody else. Tony and I never thought anyone would ever hear these songs.”

Sweet Relief provides immediate assistance and has created this DONOR-DIRECTED FUND to be used specifically for musicians and music industry workers affected by the Coronavirus. Funds raised will go towards medical expenses, lodging, clothing, food and other vital living expenses to those impacted due to sickness or loss of work.