Alexandria, VA – “Catchy rhythms… stressed by handclaps and extemporaneous body movements… are an important hallmark of soul.”
That’s a common but true and beloved phrase about soul music, one of music’s most popular genres that started in the late ‘50s and dominated the charts in the ‘60s, highlighting the importance of African-American culture. So many major soul artists, including James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and Otis Redding, and groups like The Supremes and The Temptations, all gained widespread popularity during this time and locked soul music in as a forever favorite.
And if soul music is a big and wondrous part of your soul, get ready. There is a fantastic soul-based concert “Legends of 60’s & 70’s Classic Soul Groove” at DC’s Warner Theatre on September 13 produced by DC-area promoter Cheryl Marchant. The show has a truly spectacular cast of several DC-area soul musicians and others who will make it one of soul music’s best gatherings anywhere these days.
For example, Glenn Leonard, The Temptations’ lead tenor from 1975 to 1983, is part of the concert with his Glenn Leonard’s Temptations Revue. Leonard recorded 10 albums with The Temptations and is also a member of the R&B Music Hall of Fame. Coincidentally, Leonard hails from Washington, DC, like others involved in the show. “I’m really looking forward to the show at the Warner Theatre on September 13,” said Leonard. “I’ve known the Warner since back in the day, it’s always stood out as one of DC’s finest venues. It’s going to be a great night.”
Another soul mainstay and DC presence, Mousey Thompson, is the former drummer for funk legend James Brown. Thompson is excited to deliver a high-energy show with his band, The James Brown Experience. “It’s a true honor to perform at the Warner Theatre in my hometown. This stage feels like Broadway in DC and I’m grateful for the chance to share the journey that brought me here via my James Brown Experience. And big thanks to CM Productions for making it happen.”
The concert also includes Blue Notes Featuring Tony Brooks, who was trained and managed by soul centerpiece Harold Melvin, as well as Levin Kates Tributes, Southern Maryland’s best-kept secret. “As a local performer, getting the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take the stage at the Warner Theatre means everything,” said Kates. “I’m beyond grateful to Cheryl for believing in me and making it possible.”
Hosted by longtime WPFW DJ Dr. Nick Johnson, this dynamic show is also a blessing for promoter Marchant, who is clearly thrilled to be instrumental in organizing and being a part of it. “I first got involved with the Warner Theatre back in 1977 and eventually started working behind the scenes as a crew member. To now return and produce a show of my own on this very stage, it’s truly a full circle moment and an absolute dream come true.”
The concert also features Keith Busey’s All-Star Band; Busey’s musical career includes serving as musical director for soul/R & B acts like The Stylistics, Heat Wave, The Intruders, and others. “I’ve been leading The Unit Band since the mid-90s,” said Busey, “and also been touring with The Stylistics off and on for the past 23 years, and over this time we’ve had the honor of backing some incredible talent, both local favorites and national legends. I’m really looking forward to bringing this show to the Warner Theatre… it’s going to be a special night.”
