Ken Peltier Band holds fundraising concert for Hobo Jim Day

WASILLA — The Ken Peltier Band held a special concert at Knik Bar and Grill for Hobo Jim Day, Saturday Dec. 21.

In addition to honoring the life and legacy of Alaska's Balladeer, this concert also served as a fundraiser for the Mat-Su Food Bank.

"It went fantastically," Peltier said.

Jim Varsos, more commonly known by his stage name Hobo Jim, lost his life to cancer in October of 2021. Varsos is regarded as one of the most famous and influential artists in the state's history.

Peltier and his band mates performed throughout the night. He also put on a tribute video presentation paying homage to Varsos.

All of Varsos' CDs were also available for purchase at the event.

The Knik Bar was packed with avid Hobo Jim fans.

"I was very honored and humbled by the turnout," Peltier said. "He's still packing bars even though he's in heaven."

Varsos was Peltier's mentor and one of his dearest friends. Prior to his passing, Varsos asked Peltier to carry on his music. Peltier has taken that duty very seriously and put on numerous memorial concerts and events over the years.

"His legacy is timeless. When I'm onstage doing his material I want him to be honored," Peltier said. "He told me to keep it going and I want to honor that."

Varsos' wife Cyndi said that she was thrilled to have so much support from Peltier.

"Ken is a son to me," Cyndi said.

Governor Mike Dunleavy issued an official proclamation recognizing Varsos’ birthday (Dec. 21) as Hobo Jim Day in 2021.

Each year, the public is invited to use this day to remember the countless contributions Varsos made not just as Alaska’s Official Balladeer, but as an adventurous, fun loving, and kind hearted friend, husband and neighbor that affected so many lives.

"He was just a remarkable man," Cyndi said.

Cyndi said it's touching to witness the continuous outpouring from the public.

"I love it," Cyndi said. "We have the best fans in the world. There's no way we can thank them enough."

One of Varsos' most famous contributions to Alaska's musical history is "The Iditarod Trail Song" which can be heard on the radio and other forms of media to this day, particularly during the time leading up to The Last Great Race.

The Knik area is deeply rooted in Iditarod history and it also holds a lot of sentimental value to Cyndi. She said that Varsos had a lot of good times playing at the Knik Bar. She said it was great to see so many people come together in one of her husband's favorite venues to honor his legacy.

"We're going to keep it alive," Cyndi said. "Jim, I know, is smiling."

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com