ASHWAUBENON, Wis. (NBC 26) — Over ten years ago, Eric and Anna Snyder helped form The Cougars, a Northeast Wisconsin band.
And ever since, they've been represented by Randy Bowles. But the musicians say it's more of a friendship than a business relationship.
"He's been a part of our musical journey for so long," Anna, a singer, said. "The idea of something happening to him is really hard to fathom."
Bowles himself is a musician turned talent agent. But back in November, the De Pere man and co-founder of Bananas Entertainment was diagnosed with cancer.
"It's the big 'C' word, right?" Anna said. "It's cancer, so it's scary."
On Sunday, Bananas Entertainment is hosting a benefit concert to raise money for Bowles' medical expenses. The event's called 'Randango,' and it all takes place at the EPIC Event Center in Ashwaubenon.
"Here, we're actually able to do what we do best, what we feel we do best," Eric, a bass player, said. "And hopefully we'll raise a couple bucks, help out the family so the least of their worries are money or any of that kind of stuff. They can just focus on Randy and his health."
The Cougars, who cover anything from pop to soul, are one of six local bands taking part.
"We've had to turn people away, because we don't have enough space or enough room or enough opportunity to give them a platform," Bananas Entertainment partner Brian Harrison said.
A GoFundMe for Bowles has already raised over $10,000. And at Sunday's 'Randango,' there will be over 150 raffle prizes like autographed guitars.
"If you have something to give, give," Harrison said. "If you don't, walk right in the doors and be a part of a big event."
Friends say Bowles is currently going through treatment to beat Stage 4 cancer. And there's been glimmers of hope over the past couple months.
"He's one of the kindest and most generous and most humble people that I know," Harrison said. "He's probably one of the best people I know in this entire world and there's nobody that would deserve something like this more than him."
'Randango' features six bands including Vic Rerrari, Johnny Wad, The Glam Band, Star Six Nine, The Presidents and The Cougars. Doors open Sunday at 3 p.m. at the EPIC Event Center. All ages are welcome and attendees can give an optional donation at the door.
