Soweto Gospel Choir Performance Review

On Sunday, February 16, 2014 I witnessed the sensational Soweto Gospel Choir at The Annenberg Center’s Zellerbach Theatre on 3680 Walnut Street.

The stage had colors of red, orange, yellow and gold; that reminded me of a sunset. There were lots of instruments, but my favorite was the rainmaker. When the show started, the room turned dark and a powerful voice filled the air. The lights slowly came up and the Soweto Gospel Choir had taken the stage.

This show was dedicated to Nelson Mandela. The choir’s high energy and fast paced movements made me feel happy and joyful. My favorite song was Eli, because its robust African sounds made me want to sing and dance.

I think all ages would be delighted to experience the Soweto Gospel Choir and I’m sure they would certainly appreciate your presence.

For more information and merchandise, please go to www.sowetogospelchoir.com.

Martha Redbone Performance Review

On Friday, February, 14, 2014, I had the honor to see Martha Redbone perform at The Annenberg Center’s Harold Prince Theatre. The performance was AMAZING!

As I got settled in my seat, the stage felt calm and inviting. The blue lighting above the stage enhanced the tranquil energy that surrounded the room. The piano, banjo, guitar, tambourine, and shaker were waiting to be played. It is almost time for the show to start and more people are beginning to fill the seats. The lights dimmed and the audience became silent; as the musicians (Aaron Whitby keys, melodica; Alan Burroughs guitar, vocals; Teddy Kumpel guitar, banjo, vocals; George Rush upright bass, vocals) made their way to the stage. Everyone cheered when Martha Redbone came on stage! She was wearing a red dress and a very cool beaded necklace for Valentines Day. Before Martha Redbone began to sing, she spoke to the audience about the meaning of her music. She is an Independent Music Award Wining Musician of Cherokee, Choctaw, Shawnee and African-American descent. Since 2002, Martha Redbone has been performing, educating and mentoring across Native North America and abroad. Her recent album, The Garden of Love is a tribute to William Blake; an English poet, painter and printmaker.

All ages would enjoy listening to Martha Redbone. She combines folk, country, piedmont blues, gospel, honkytonk, bluegrass, soul and traditional Native American sounds in her music. Her lyrics are touching, joyful and funny. During the performance, the audience had the opportunity to sing a long, clap and dance. One of the lessons that I learned, was that, we should all know our history and children should be able to stand up for themselves.

One of my favorite songs was, The Fly; because her vocals were raw, raspy and strong.

We had a ten minute intermission and I rushed to get her new album. This was my very first cd EVER! I was really excited to listen and get it signed by Martha Redbone, herself!

By the end of the show, the entire audience stood up, clapped and yelled “GOOD JOB”!

Everyone wanted to meet her and a after a long wait, I finally got the chance and she signed my cd. She said to always, keep smilingJ.

For more information on Martha Redbone and upcoming performances, go to www.martharedbone.com

 -Lexa D.