T.J. Martell Foundation NY Honors Gala Ends with Rousing Jelly Roll Performance; Raises $2.2 Million for Cancer Research

Industry leaders, philanthropists and medical researchers converged on Cipriani 42nd Street on September 16, 2025 for the T.J. Martell Foundation’s annual New York Honors Gala. The evening combined heartfelt tributes, performances and fundraising in support of cancer research.

Headliner Jelly Roll — fresh from a recent engagement at the Vatican, where he also met the Pope — delivered an impassioned set that included “Save Me,” “Need a Favor” and “Get By.” Speaking to the crowd, he acknowledged feeling unusually nervous for the occasion and likened the pressure to performing for the Pope and to his first appearance at the Clive Davis Pre‑Grammy party.

“I was like, ‘I’m in New York City. I’m at the T.J. Martell gala. It’s a big deal,’” Jelly Roll told attendees, later noting the strange but meaningful parallels between recent high‑profile performances.

The gala also featured a soulful set from Sekou, who performed selections including “Love Language” and “Better Man.” By the night’s end, guests had helped raise more than $2.2 million to support the Foundation’s cancer research and treatment programs.

Circle of Legends — Celebrating Five Decades

Marking the T.J. Martell Foundation’s 50th anniversary, organizers introduced the “Circle of Legends” award to honor music executives and visionaries whose longstanding support has powered the nonprofit’s work. Among those recognized were Clive Davis, Irving Azoff, Berry Gordy, Monte Lipman, Avery Lipman, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Tommy Mottola and founder Tony Martell.

“For 50 years, the music industry’s generosity has fueled lifesaving cancer research,” said CEO Lynn‑Anne Huck. “Honoring our Circle of Legends reminds us that together, we can turn music’s promise into tomorrow’s cures.”

The Circle of Legends honor highlighted decades of advocacy, fundraising and leadership — individuals who made the calls, secured funding, and inspired others to support the cause.

Additional Honorees

The event recognized numerous other contributors, some posthumously, including:

• Michele Anthony
• Clarence Avant
• Lenny Beer
• Mitchell Benson
• Steve Boom
• Scott Borchetta
• Will Botwin
• Jim Caparro
• Gary Casson
• Warren Christensen
• Tom Corson
• Shanti Das
• Archie Davis
• Seth England
• Rakiyah Marshall England
• John Esposito
• Charlie Feldman
• Jason Flom
• Tom Freston
• Joe Galante
• Daniel Glass
• David Glew
• David Glinert
• Floyd Glinert
• Charles Goldstuck
• Jeff Harleston
• Clint Higham
• Dr. James Holland
• Joel A. Katz
• Michael Kushner
• Dennis Lavinthal
• Aaron W. Levy
• Carianne Marshall
• Harvey Mason Jr.
• Judy McGrath
• Mike O’Neill
• Dino Paredes
• Bea Perez
• Michael J. Pollack
• Frances W. Preston
• Diarmuid Quinn
• Michael Reinert
• Marc Reiter
• Scott Rodger
• Paul B. Shore
• Julie Swidler
• John Sykes
• Afo Verde
• Marsha Vlasic
• Ron Wilcox
• Chaka Zulu

Foundation Background

The T.J. Martell Foundation was established in 1974 by music executive Tony Martell after his son T.J. was diagnosed with leukemia. What began as a pledge to raise $1 million has grown into a global effort: the Foundation has now raised more than $280 million to fund research grants at leading cancer centers.

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