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TRYON—Award-winning artist and longtime Tryon resident Dr. Samuel Waymon has released a compelling new music video titled “Baltimore (In Four Movements),” now streaming on Vimeo and YouTube. The release highlights both a powerful artistic performance and a heartfelt tribute to the victims and survivors of Hurricane Helene.

Recorded live during a benefit concert held Oct. 25, 2024, at the Tryon International Equestrian Center, Waymon’s performance of Randy Newman’s 1977 composition “Baltimore” offers a stirring reinterpretation of the original work, weaving in contemporary social commentary and personal reflection. The concert, titled PHP: People Helping People, was organized to support recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, which caused widespread devastation across the Southeastern United States, including more than 100 deaths in North Carolina alone.

According to a press release issued by SportsQuest International, LLC, the video blends live concert footage with visual storytelling that recalls the trauma of the storm and the resilience of those impacted. Waymon’s performance serves not only as a musical homage but also as a documentary-style commentary on broader societal challenges, with visual references to communities in Baltimore and beyond.

“This piece transcends a single location or moment,” Waymon says in the video. “It speaks to the forgotten people—those left behind in every city when disaster strikes or systems fail.”

The Tryon International Equestrian Center, located in Mill Spring, played a critical role in the days and weeks following Hurricane Helene, serving as a logistical hub and relief center for thousands. It distributed vital supplies, including food and water, and provided temporary shelter to displaced families from Polk, Rutherford, Henderson and surrounding counties. The concert was held in gratitude for those efforts and to continue raising support for ongoing recovery.

Emceed by actress and comedienne Pam Stone, People Helping People featured a diverse lineup of regional talent, including Champagne Charlie, The Zion Grove AME Zion Church Music Department, Awake in the Dream, Shane Pruitt, The Flatrock Playhouse and the Kenya Cultural Quintet. Waymon and his Magic Man Band closed the evening with an emotional, genre-blending set, with “Baltimore” as the centerpiece.

Dr. Waymon, 80, is widely respected for his contributions to both music and film, with a career that spans decades. He has composed for landmark films, including Ganja & Hess, Philadelphia, and Weeds, and toured internationally as musical director and organist for his late sister, the iconic Nina Simone.

“Baltimore (In Four Movements)” is now available for streaming worldwide on Vimeo and YouTube. The video offers not only a rich musical experience but also a historical and emotional reflection on disaster, recovery and the enduring power of art to inspire and heal.