Many concerts devoted to social causes have occurred throughout history: Live Aid, the Freedom Concert, David Hasselhoff’s 1989 performance at the Berlin Wall—just to name a few. May 10, Baltimore had one of its own. Perhaps it wasn’t as hyped, and perhaps some won’t give it its due, but for those who were there, this concert carried a spirit and significance all its own.
At this particular event, hometown heroes Turnstile brought their unique blend of hardcore punk to Wyman Park Dell, performing for a crowd estimated between 10,000 and 20,000 people, with attendees traveling from across the country. The free benefit show solicited donations for the Baltimore nonprofit Healthcare for the Homeless and has, to date, raised over $47,000 to support healthcare access for the unhoused in Baltimore and surrounding areas.
Turnstile has long been active in the Baltimore punk and hardcore scene but has seen a recent rise to mainstream success, particularly following their Grammy-nominated album Glow On. Since then, the band has performed on stages around the world, including major festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury.
While the success of Baltimore locals is worth celebrating on its own, there was something more to this concert than just music. Live music has always been more than sound—it’s a force that brings people together, challenges the status quo, and helps build lasting bonds across difference. Many attendees on Saturday weren’t familiar with the band; some were passersby drawn in by the sound emanating from the park, while others came simply to enjoy a beautiful spring day with live music. The consensus? The concert exceeded expectations in more ways than one. Baltimore Beat writer Jarett Loeffler described the event as “an incubator for community” and “a collective exhale” (Baltimore Beat).
TikTok commenters have praised the concert and its community impact
In the world of hardcore and punk, community has always been just as important as the music itself. These niche scenes are often self-organized, grassroots, and intentionally inclusive. Turnstile drummer Daniel Fang put it simply: “That aspect of inclusivity is really important for us… This is kind of what we dream of” (Baltimore Banner). The band backed those values not just in spirit but in action—financing the concert themselves, without sponsors.
At their best, hardcore and punk shows create space for political consciousness to grow, for voices at the margins to be heard, and for people to connect. Turnstile has used their platform to expand that communal spirit, welcoming people from all walks of life.
So, in the spirit of this event, get out there! Meet new people and try new things. You—and your community—can only benefit from it.
TikTok commenters have praised the concert and its community impact
If you’re interested in studying music, punk, hardcore, or the social impact of live performance, explore the many resources available through the library. We offer physical materials and access to databases on Music, Sociology, History, Humanities, and more—helping you explore the topic from all angles.
Missed the concert? Turnstile has posted the full show on YouTube—you can watch it here.
Want to contribute? You can still donate to Healthcare for the Homeless here.