Philadelphia, PA–Patty Jackson’s Annual Patty in the Park Event is always a sure fire celebration filled with an indulging atmosphere of delicious food, pure elation and unforgettable entertainment fused in that family reunion vibe.
This year’s extravaganza embodied such rich old school flavor with a legendary line-up that would take music lovers back down memory lane basking in the breezy ambient aura.
Fellow radio innovator WBLS’s own Jeff Foxx was among the star-studded list of renowned guests appearing with WDAS’s lovely queen Patty Jackson warming up the joyous crowd before welcoming musical legends The Chi-Lites to center stage.
Hailing from Chicago, this remarkable Hall of Fame quartet has captivated audiences worldwide with their timeless soul music and ebullient harmonies. This evening was no different as they performed their magic to hits like “A Lonely Man“, “Oh Girl” and heartfelt classic “Have You Seen Her” taking deep rooted fans on a memorable trip back in the days when you felt that pure old school loving.
Following the time-honored ensemble was sweetness of disco-funk trendsetters Heatwave. Originally formed in London in the mid 70’s by co-founder and co-lead vocalist the late Johnnie Wilder Jr., these music vets have been blessing the ears of audiences around the globe for well over forty years and tonight they had the entire venue getting their two-step in putting it down on numerous vintage tracks including “Boogie Nights“, “The Groove Line” along with unforgettable signature slow jam “Always and Forever” making lovers reminisce on the essence of true love’s tenderness.
Ohio-based music group Zapp were next on the trailblazing showcase. Making waves in the entertainment industry for nearly four decades with their Electro-Funk and unique sound, these talkbox pioneers still have what it takes to groove audiences worldwide. Jamming to countless hits “More Bounce To The Ounce“, “Doo Wa Ditty (Blow That Thing)”, along with classic love tracks “Computer Love“, and “I Wanna Be Your Man” had the had the crowd getting their electric slides and slow whines in.
Closing this polished harmonious affair were none other than Los Angeles’ own The Whispers. This legendary group are credited as the cornerstone of soul and R&B music with an illustrious career that continuously enamored audiences for over five decades. Creative masters of smooth and seductive richness, they persevered through transitions of genre trends and still managed to appeal to listeners of different generations.
From their emergence in the fiery era of zestful funk music to their subsequent evolution into collectors of smooth ballads and romantic serenades, The Whispers have succeeded by exemplifying unparalleled talent in delivering sophisticated sounds and this evening was just as impeccable.
Bringing down the house to their endless playlist of multiplatinum jams like “Rock Steady“, “It’s A Love Thing” together with silky ballads “(Olivia) Lost And Turned Out” and “Lady” was the perfect ending to a timeless production.
Next up on the Essence Of Entertainment series, Lady B’s Basement Party Sunday, September 3rd with a legendary lineup of Hip-Hop’s finest celebrating 50 years of Hip Hop, this is one you don’t want to miss. Visit: www.thedellmusiccenter.com for details.
