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
Great write up! informative and fun!
ReplyDelete