Uwishunu.com

Post by Kate Bracaglia / Photo by Benjamin Kaufmann

Having seen one too many ridiculous tribute band in my short lifetime, I generally steer clear of anything with the word “tribute” in its name. That includes: the little known ’80s flick, the beachy Nora Roberts read, the sporty Mazda Tribute, and even (yes) the greatest song in the world.

One small item I might make an exception for? Still Black, Still Proud: An African Tribute to James Brown, a funky, frenzied night of music and dancing occurring this Thursday, August 21 at the Kimmel Center‘s Perelman Theater.

Why the sudden change of heart? Well for one, this funkadelic event, part of the Global Grooves dance party series, is the real deal. Performers include Brown’s right hand man Pee Wee Ellis along with longtime trombonist Fred Wesley and a crop of established musicians who know soul is no slackin’ business.

Second, what can we say? Dance parties are fab, and the idea of letting loose on a work night is appealing, especially when there’s a cash bar involved.

Third, we have a hunch that the hardest working man in showbiz, were he alive today, would encourage us all to get down and get funky. After all, didn’t he tell us to lay down that boogie and play that funky music till you die? Better listen to the King!

Still Black, Still Proud: An African Tribute to James Brown at the Kimmel Center’s Perelman Theater, Thursday, August 21
260 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 790-5800
www.kimmelcenter.org