George Yunis was an enduring figure in the Cleveland rock music scene beginning in the 1970s. From fronting bands like Souvenir, Champion, Racer, and The Maxx Band to being the house band during the heyday of the iconic Agora Ballroom in Cleveland, George left an indelible mark on the city's musical landscape.
In more recent years, George continued to captivate audiences with his performances in Time Traveler, the premier Moody Blues tribute band, and That 80's band. Tragically, George's nearly five-decade-long performing career came to an end when he succumbed to cancer in October 2021 at the age of 63.
To honor his memory and passion for music, George's lifelong friend, Scott Chatham, and his twin brother, Mike Yunis, established the George Yunis Future Rock Star Scholarship. This initiative aims to provide scholarships to incoming students at Cleveland State pursuing studies in the pop/rock music track.
This Giving Day 2026, we invite you to join us in commemorating George's legacy by contributing to the George Yunis Future Rock Star Scholarship. Your generous gift not only pays tribute to a beloved artist but also ensures that aspiring musicians at Cleveland State can follow in George's footsteps. Let's come together to support the next generation of rock stars and keep the spirit of Cleveland's music scene alive. Thank you for considering a donation in honor of George and his enduring impact on the world of music.
