"America's long struggle against racial segregation was accompanied by a righteous soundtrack of spirituals and gospel and soul music, anthems that channeled sanctified fervor into the fight for equality. Emerging from Vallejo in the midst of the civil rights movement, Sly and the Family Stone drew on many of the same musical sources in creating an incandescent series of songs. It's no coincidence that the group's first No. 1 hit was the 1968 ode to tolerance "Everyday People.""
"This year's In the Name of Love concert, the East Bay's largest cultural event honoring Martin Luther King Jr., connects the martyred reverend's legacy to the treasure trove of music created by Stone, who died last June at the age of 82. Produced by Living Jazz, the education organization that brings music into dozens of East Bay public schools, the 22nd annual MLK tribute concert features a stellar roster of artists at Oakland's Paramount Theatre Saturday, Jan. 17."
"It's Living Jazz's third Paramount production, building on 2024's sold-out Stevie Wonder program and last year's concert focusing on Aretha Franklin. Returning for his third stint as "In the Name of Love" music director, Oakland pianist, rapper and producer Kev Choice leads a program that highlights a multi-generational cast of Bay Area artists. "What we've been doing different is focusing more on local musicians," said Lyz Luke, who took over as Living Jazz's executive director in 2022. "We've upped the production values, but it's hard to compete with the Paramount.""
Music rooted in spirituals, gospel and soul provided anthems that fueled America's civil rights struggle. Sly and the Family Stone emerged from Vallejo during the civil rights era and drew on those musical sources to create incandescent songs, including the 1968 No. 1 ode to tolerance "Everyday People." Sly Stone died last June at the age of 82. The In the Name of Love concert links Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy to Stone's music. Living Jazz produces the 22nd annual MLK tribute at Oakland's Paramount Theatre on Saturday, Jan. 17. Kev Choice returns as music director with a multi-generational Bay Area cast. Executive director Lyz Luke emphasizes local musicians and higher production values while the program centers on African American idioms and reimagined Family Stone hits.
Read at The Mercury News
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