A pint-sized Florida rock band plays for Austim

On any given night you’ll find plenty of live music in south Florida. 

But at the Universe Cafe in Hollywood, Florida the head banging rock band is a bunch of kids, literally. 

The oldest band member is just 15. 

The youngest, 13. 

They’re called “The Exiles”, and they’re not only good, they’re playing for a good cause.

“The first time we went here we made lots of tips, and my mom works around autistic children and she thought it would be a good cause to donate to”, said Jason Dean, the band’s lead singer.

“The Exiles” don’t get paid by the cafe’s owner, but they pass a tip jar and donate 15 percent of their proceeds to help kids with autism. 

The owner of Universe Cafe matches whatever they get. 

It was an idea the whole band bought into right away.

“It’s really cool that we have a chance to give back because a lot of bands out there playing don’t think of that”, said guistarit Katie Schanze.  “We don’t need it, we just give it to them.“

“The Exiles” are also hitting the right note with fans. 

Since starting their gig at the Universe Cafe a month ago the crowds have gotten bigger and bigger. 

At a recent show they spilled into the street. 

The band plays classic rock that appeals to crowds more their parents’ age. 

But they don’t mind at all.

“This is the music of their generation and they’ve grown up on this music”, said bass player Kristi Tannen.  “They’re like hearing it again, so it’s like reliving their childhood”.