Local blues singer and guitarist Justin Golden was poised for a breakout year in 2025. After his album “Hard Times and a Woman” gained international attention, February promised to be one of his busiest months yet, with multiple shows lined up and plans for his fourth studio album.

Then, just over a month ago, the 34-year-old performer was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, forcing him to cancel upcoming performances. In response, his management team, record label, and local musicians rallied together to launch “Golden Fest,” a series of benefit concerts to help cover his medical expenses.

The lineup for Golden Fest, which began last Saturday, features several musicians who have worked with and performed with Golden. One of these performers, singer-songwriter Tyler Meacham, recalled one of her first performances on stage was with Golden’s band at Cary Street Cafe.

“His mentality toward inviting people into this community is kind of unparalleled and I really think the response to his diagnosis and wanting to do something for him just stems from the fact that he’s already done a lot for us,” Meacham said.

Musician Jonathan Page Brown Jr., who also performed, said Golden is like a brother to him. The two met at an open mic night when Brown was just starting out. Over the years, Brown has turned to Golden for advice in his music journey.

“At almost every pivotal point of my career up to this point, I’ve always ended up running into him and having a really deep conversation about what to do,” Brown said.

  

Golden’s GoFundMe has raised $72,000 of its $75,000 goal. Although he couldn’t attend the first show, Golden expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the community’s support.

“Seeing everybody coming together for Golden Fest is so impactful for me, so moving for me as far as keeping my hopes up and distracting me from the reality of what’s going on and the diagnosis,” Golden said. “I’ve just been able to connect with a lot of people, and also the GoFundMe, it’s really, really helpful to keep those things in perspective.”