http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx(From Lester Holt, TODAY Anchor) I never take for granted that I get paid to do something I am passionate about: Being a reporter. And so a rare offer to combine that with one of my other passions -music - was beyond my wildest dreams. I’m justen-USCommunityServer 2.0 (Build: 60608.1)http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92578Fri, 16 Mar 2007 22:09:12 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92578B Bobbie PortlandThis sounds wonderful! Thanks for posting this behind-the-scenes look. I love Haugh Laurie and greatly admire the Band from TV for their charitable (and rockin') efforts. Sadly, though, it looks like my local station doesn't have TODAY on Saturday, only Sunday, so hope your web folks can post a video that Mac users can view ;-) Cheers!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92627Fri, 16 Mar 2007 23:20:12 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92627GraceI can't wait for this one! I love the music in HOUSE and I adore Hugh Laurie. He is an amazing talent. Thank you Band from TV for donating all of your profits to charity. And a big hug to Hugh for all the hard work he does on HOUSE. It is much appreciated.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92804Sat, 17 Mar 2007 11:30:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92804Di McD, Kent, OHWith Mr. Holt being so talented (and too humble to say it), he fits in perfectly with Band from TV. I look forward to watching the story. Well done!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92831Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:26:33 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92831Jake Rodesh,Canfield,Ohiopretty good money ,(must be union scale). Good job guy'shttp://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92832Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:30:45 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92832Patty Hjulberg Prior Lake MN I am a fan of Lester's always have been he is such a great looking man and has such a present about him. The music is an added enjoyment. I like all of who made this song. Is there a way of getting a copy I would like to help in the funding to help there causehttp://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92834Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:34:31 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92834Redoubt, Phenix City, AlOne of the most enjoyable stories I have seen come out of the news and entertainment industries in a long time. Count me as one of those who will be waiting for the release of the House soundtrack!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92835Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:36:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92835Jackie Rogers, Akron, OhioHi Lester, Loved the Band from TV piece. Very Cool indeed. Quick Question .... Who was on the saxophone? http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92837Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:39:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92837Cindy WatsonLester... What beuatiful music you guys made together...and I don't mean just the vocal and instrumental! If only more of us would come together like you did for a good cause. You actually brought tears to my eyes as I watched...A few years ago a friend and I were able to bring local,little known talent together for a music festival in our town and the joy that evolved from the music and the bonding was incredible! Make more music...it heals all souls and fosters harmony among those who listen!!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92838Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:42:13 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92838Christine, Smithfield, RILester, One of my passions is music too. I am an amateur singer. I could definitely relate to your time in Hollywood. What an awesome experience. The fun and joy came through in your mini documentary. I can't wait for the CD to drop. I hope we viewers get to see more of you in these kinds of spots. You were great. I really enjoy your reporting. Great job!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92842Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:49:34 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92842Susan Stack, Levittown, PAAlthough it seemed as though you may have been surprised at the "secondary" talents that these already successful celebrities possess, we have enjoyed the musical talents of Kevin Bacon and his brother Michael for many years. What we had thought was just going to be an opportunity to be "up close and personal" with an acclaimed movie actor ended up being a truly enjoyable experience. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92849Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:04:44 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92849Dodie Hightower, New London, CT.Lester, I have always been a fan the Today show as often as I can. My Three year old likes you. I think becuase he thinks you look like his Daddy. you have been on his good list since he could talk. We are both big music fans and were very impressed to see you today. My little guy also has two guiters and plays them from morning till night. He sings music from John mayor and Stevie Rae Von the most! My husband I were both pleased to watch you on todays show and to read more on the band. I also was born with (and have) Epilepsy. I look forward to getting the soundtrack CD! Have A great Day! http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92850Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:12:32 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92850Victor, Lebanon, PALester Holt seems like one of the most humble, unassuming people on television. I thoroughly enjoy his segments and wish there were more people with his great attitude. Keep pickin' that bass, Lester! http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92851Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:21:23 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92851Bonnie Lenart, Islamorada Floridamy husband also plays the bass, he has a day job but loves to play with a local group on the weekends here in the Florida Keys. They may be a bunch of middle age guys, but when they get together to play you'd think they were 20 again.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92854Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:27:16 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92854D. Spirnak,Cleveland OhioI just want to say thank you to Lester and all the members of the Band From TV for using their talents to bring awareness to, and raise money for pediatric epilepsy.This is a cause that is close to our fanily's heart. It is one that affects many people, but does not get much recognition. My 16 year-old son has lived with this for many years and has even had neurosurgery for his seizures. Please let us know how we can donate to this cause. Will there be a CD released soon? I'm sure that many viewers would find the information valuable. Also, our whole family loves Lester! Thank you to Lester Holt for so many pertinent segments that he covers and to Greg Grunberg and all of the TV heroes for donating their time and talents!!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92859Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:34:34 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92859Tracy. Chesterfield, MO.What a great idea and you all sounded wonderful. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92860Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:36:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92860Doris Cawley, Augusta, Ga.Loved the music with Lester Holt and Hugh Laurie and guys. Would like to when the CD comes out. My boyfriend loves "House" and I would like to get him the CD. Let me know, Thanks, Dorishttp://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92862Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:39:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92862Mary Palmer Lenoir City,TN. Will we be able to purchase the recording? We are baby boomers and weekend musicians. Loved what we heard on today's show!!!!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92863Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:46:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92863Janie Harris, Boise, IdahoMy late husband Gene Harris was one of the great Jazz/Blues pianists. He passed in Jan. of 2000. We worked and toured together and loved taking his music around the world. When Gene's fans would come back stage after concerts, they would tell him, "I play as a hobby, but I stink." Gene would always say, "Play because you love it, that's it, that's what I do". After seeing Lester and Hugh and all those wonderful actors playing together this morning on the show, I knew that they played because they love it! It may be their hobby, but it lives in their hearts and they are good! I can't wait for the CD to come out. I'll play it on my radio show! Thanks Lester and all for your music and a great story!! And for donating all your money to charity...this is what we all should be about!! If you want to play the Gene Harris Jazz Festival in 2008 let me know....we raise money for music scholar ship and education. You've got a gig here whenever you want one! And one last thought...how about these guys performing on the Today Show Concert series....everyone would love it!! Kindest personal regards to you all, you made my day! Janie Harris, Artistic Director, Gene Harris Jazz Festivalhttp://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92865Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:51:43 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92865Shaorn KOrdingWill definitely purchase this recording. Lucky you to have the talent to be a GREAT anchor and a grest musician and working with Hugh Laurie. One of the people I would like to meet but will never have the opportunity. Thank you Sharon K http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92866Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:52:52 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92866gail and rod hocott, little rock, arkansasI went to get some coffee and missed the segment of Lester, Hugh etc playing in the band....will do put a live segment on this page so we can hear a little bit of it.....can't believe I missed it....that's what we were watching for!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92867Sat, 17 Mar 2007 13:54:28 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92867Barb, Los Angeles, CAWhy am I not surprised? You are one of the most credible reporters and anchors and now a recorded musician. Congratulations!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92878Sat, 17 Mar 2007 14:28:30 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92878Melanie Libby, West Baldwin, MEI am so glad that Lester was given this opportunity. I have heard of the band before, but have never gotten a chance to see them perform. How wonderful that these artists are able to do something they love and many charitable organizations benefit. Great job Lester and the rest of the band! http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92881Sat, 17 Mar 2007 14:37:23 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92881katie strong, augusta, maine Hugh, you are an inspiration to many. I wish you the best of luck with your future endeavors and can't wait until March 27th. Keep up the good work. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92882Sat, 17 Mar 2007 14:38:15 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92882Kay Riggs, LaPorte,TXGreat story! I hope this group will be making more public appearances...possibly on TV where more viewers can enjoy this great effort of charity and entertainment. Music is a universal language that we all understand and feel. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92883Sat, 17 Mar 2007 14:38:16 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92883Christine TuckerSurely, you will remind us when the soundtrack is released and where to purchase.I think itis a wonderfulthing and I am sure that it was a wonderful experience for you, congrats!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92904Sat, 17 Mar 2007 15:15:04 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92904Chris Kelley, Burbank, CAHi, Lester! It was great playing with you at Capitol with all the guys. You're a great player, and you were fun to work and hang with. Hope we can do it again soon. We're playing at the "Heroes" wrap party April 17th. Grab your bass and get on a plane! Chris Kelley, Band From TVhttp://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92918Sat, 17 Mar 2007 15:56:46 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92918Audrey Stanton, Forestville, MDHI, I watch Today every day. Last week Lester said he was doing this piece. So glad I did not miss it. I would love to buy the CD when it comes out. House is another of our favorites. We love Hugh Laurie. Lester you did a magnificant job with all the other musicians. Thanks for caring so much. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92939Sat, 17 Mar 2007 16:31:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92939Diane Doering, Virginia BeachHow fabulous that you got to be with some of my absolute favorites from TV. And Lester, you could never do anything wrong in my eyes - ever. Now if I could only be as good at picking men in my personal life!!!!!!!!!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92956Sat, 17 Mar 2007 16:55:28 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92956Gail P, Cape Elizabeth, MEI think the idea someone raised of your band doing a Today show concert is a great one! Also... get that CD out so that those of us unable to see the band live can support the cause by purchasing a CD! http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92958Sat, 17 Mar 2007 16:59:22 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92958Joyce Hlousek, Schaumburg, ILDitto the request for when/where to purchase the recording--or DVD. Perhaps a link could be posted on the website... It's amazing to see so many TV personalities I admire in an enjoyable avocation that we, the fans, can share. Lester, I had jury duty (again) in December '06. This time in Skokie, IL. Did you know that they're still using the video you did for them a number of years ago when you were working out of Chicago? All they do is update the introduction and conclusion to include new politicos, while your far more significant part remains the same. In retrospect, I'll bet you wish you could get them to digitally remove the moustache you sported back then!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92972Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:24:02 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92972Bill Szostek, Chicago, Il Hey man! How many basses you got? Actually, on a more serious "note", I'm also a bassist and currently with the New Colony Six (a "late 60's/early 70's" band - it's a part time gig - I too have a day job). I knew you played bass since you mention it in passing while a news anchor here in Chicago. Your situation looks pretty cool, but I couldn't really hear you. Since I don't often get a chance to watch the show, how would I know when this CD comes out? I would like a copy. Oh, by the way, I own a '72 Jazz. I also have a Peavy "beater bass" that I got to cover my gig while my Jazz was getting repaired - the original bridge fell apart while on stage! It's got a BadAss bridge now. Keep on rockin'!!!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92980Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:37:07 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92980Susan Moore, Panama City FLFor several years I have been saying Lester is the renaissance man--this firms up my opinion. I remember his playing with Captain & Tenille. I'm also a fan of Hugh Laurie, thanks for doing a segment on his talent as well as the talent of the others in this group. This was a familiar genre to me, I have a son who is a music producer (The Dust Brothers) and another who majored in music. Maybe Lester could do more segments on musicians...http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#92987Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:44:47 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92987debbie nestleroadAny chance to hear lesters music is a treat! So glad he could be a part of this great event. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93018Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:09:12 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93018Ogechi, Houston, TXGreat job and congrats on the story, this article, and the recording session, Lester! I'm going to nab that album the minute it's released! I am stuck on Hugh Laurie, I love him to bits and House is my absolute favorite show. Greg Grunberg is great, too! David Foster is my career role-model. This whole concept is drenched with awesome-ness!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93019Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:09:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93019B. Haragan, Bethesda, MDI adore Hugh Laurie. Unfortunately, I learned of this AFTER it aired. Sigh.....http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93084Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:16:48 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93084Harrison Williams Mobile Al. Dear Mr. Holtz, I am 13 and also play electric bass and stand up bass in Junior high school band. Your bass is awesome. Which do you like better? The electric or stand up bass. I prefer the electric. I enjoyed seeing you play on t.v. Keep rocking, Harrison Williams http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93125Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:56:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93125a viewerDear Mr. Lester Holt: You looked very much at home with the band. I have to say that I am a big fan of "Heroes," and am thrilled to see that Greg Grunberg is finally getting the recognition that he deserves. I still remember him from “Felicity,” loved him even back then. I hope we get to see you play again. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93293Sun, 18 Mar 2007 00:21:18 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93293Lauren, PennsylvaniaThank you so much! I love Hugh Laurie and the show House. It is great to see him performing as a musician because he is usally being interviewed or acting for the show. AWESOME JOB YOU GUYS and a shout out to HL and the HOUSE Co.!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93314Sun, 18 Mar 2007 01:22:54 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93314Ellen , South Salem, NYI am a huge fan of Hugh Laurie, and adore everything he does. All of you look like you are having the time of your lives, and it sounds it too!! Looking forward to the CD and more fabulous episodes of House. You go Hugh!!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93316Sun, 18 Mar 2007 01:33:08 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93316Ted Wroth, Poolesville, MDLester, You have to ask Frank Radice about how he started in a little 13 piece band (The Zebes) in Chevy Chase, MD. I'm glad to see an "Old guy" can play a mean four string bass. I used to play one with him back then...nothing in the last thirty plus years.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93329Sun, 18 Mar 2007 02:46:53 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93329C. Chapman, Wilmington, NCThank you for this report. I loved it. I look forward to the release of the cd this summer. I watch every weekend. You and Campbell are a great co-hosts. I would love to see more of you on weekdays. I saw the days of girls only. How about a day of guys only. That would make my day.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93342Sun, 18 Mar 2007 03:34:14 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93342Sara, Stephenville, TXMan, it's nice to see a positive story on celebrities doing something really cool, instead of constantly checking in and out of rehab or otherwise entangling themselves in scandal. I look forward to the CD. Cheers!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93370Sun, 18 Mar 2007 05:20:51 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93370Donna SmithIt was a real kick to watch(and listen) to Lester and the Band playing and really "digging" what they were doing. It was a fun way to relax and unwind after working all night. I think Lester is a neat guy; suave and unassuming; intelligent and funny; someone you would enjoy being around just because he's a heck of a nice guy. Watching Lester and Campbell together on the weekend mornings is a pleasure. Thanks!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93383Sun, 18 Mar 2007 06:29:23 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93383Michael McCarthy, Athens, OHLester -- I suggest you check out a copy of Igor Stravinsky's "The Poetics of Music." In it he writes that even if one were able to reduce the entire English language to one single word, we would still be able to tell the difference between the poet and the non-poet. I think it would put to rest your worries about journalists playing bass, or bassists writing novels, or any sort of genre tourism.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93446Sun, 18 Mar 2007 15:13:34 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93446Eve Gordon Delta, PACongratulations, it was very easy to see on ALL of your faces that each and every one of the guys felt like a teenager again ! What an uplifting story to brighten my weekend. I have a 21 year old self taught AWESOME bass playing son who vibrates the floor of my bedroom everyday. I enjoy the 'noise' he makes... It may not be my cup of tea, but I know he's happy~ What more could I ask for. Keep slappin' that bass Lester ! http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93530Sun, 18 Mar 2007 20:26:05 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93530Alex BaldwinWhat a great job you all did. You should get togther again and produce another piece. http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93663Mon, 19 Mar 2007 01:24:28 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93663Terry, Longmont, ColoradoLoved the video! Thanks Mr. Holt for sharing. As an amature musician and a bass player, music is the only think that keeps me sane in this crazy world. The group really seemed to "click" with such very little time together.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93758Mon, 19 Mar 2007 08:47:19 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93758Corien, NetherlandsGreat video to watch, you guys have so much fun (and talent)!! The Band from TV rocks! Can't wait for the song to air on House/CD to come out.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#93967Mon, 19 Mar 2007 16:41:18 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93967J. SikesA great story! I'm a teacher who plays drums for a hobby. Hey Lester, if you or the "TV Band" need a sit in drummer, let me know, I'd love to partcipate to help for charity. Have a great day!http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#94003Mon, 19 Mar 2007 17:04:30 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:94003Jan HarnishCongratulations to Lester and Hugh, two of my favorites. Both are a pleasure to watch and delighted to know you are so talented beyond your typical careers.http://allday.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/16/91722.aspx#94217Mon, 19 Mar 2007 19:53:35 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:94217Ellis Quincy, Pittsburgh, PALester Holt is the epitome of respectable journalism. He delivers information without inserting his opinion through word, tone or gesture. He's a rare gem in the field.