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RNB

Tito Jackson: The Soulful Essence of the Jackson 5

by BELINDA September 23, 2024

written by BELINDA

With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to Tito Jackson, a cherished member of the Jackson 5 who’s talent and spirit left an unforgettable mark on the music world. Tito was not just a musician; he was a beacon of joy, creativity, and resilience. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, his guitar strummed the chords of our hearts, and his soulful voice transported us to a place where music truly knows no bounds.

09 September 2024, Bavaria, Munich: The music band “The Jacksons” with Tito (2nd from left to right), Jackie and Marlon Jackson, as well as Tito’s son Taryll Jackson (left) stand in front of a press conference in front of the Michael Jackson memorial in front of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof. On September 10, 2024, “The Jacksons” play their only concert in Germany to date at Circus Krone in Munich. Photo: Lennart Preiss/dpa (Photo by Lennart Preiss/picture alliance via Getty Images)

As one of the founding members of the Jackson 5, Tito played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Motown and defining the era of pop music. His contributions went beyond mere notes and rhythms; they were filled with emotion, passion, and a deep connection to his roots. Tito’s dedication to his craft inspired countless artists and fans alike, creating a legacy that will endure for generations.

For many of us at BackBeat R&B, Tito’s music was the soundtrack to our lives. His performances resonated with authenticity, inviting us to dance, sing, and celebrate the magic of music. The joy he brought to the stage was matched only by the warmth he radiated off it, touching the hearts of fans worldwide.

As we mourn the loss of Tito Jackson, we also celebrate the vibrant life he lived and the countless memories he created for us. His spirit will forever live on in the music we cherish and the stories we share. To Tito’s family, friends, and devoted fans, know that you are not alone in your grief. The entire community stands united, holding on to the beautiful melodies he gifted us.

Rest in peace, Tito. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will continue to shine brightly in our hearts and on the airwaves, reminding us of the joy of music and the power it has to connect us all. Thank you Tito Jackson for sharing your talent with the world!

* Please note all photos taken from Google Images

September 23, 2024 0 comment

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 15TH ANNUAL CLASSIC R&B MUSIC FESTIVAL @ KALAHARI RESORTS & CONVENTION CENTER!

by BELINDA January 29, 2023

written by BELINDA

The 15th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival in the Poconos was a spectacular event that brought together some of the biggest names in the genre for an unforgettable musical experience. This all inclusive 5-day vacation of music and memories took place at Kalahari Resorts in the beautiful Poconos Mountains from Oct 2-Oct 6,2022, and featured a lineup of talented artists who delivered electrifying performances that had the crowd dancing and singing along.

One of the headliners of the festival was the legendary Stephanie Mills, with her powerful vocals and known for hit songs like , “Never Knew Love Like This Before”, ” Home”, “Feel The Fire”. and “What Cha Gonna Do With My Love”, had the crowd on their feet with her iconic harmony and smooth choreography.

The Legendary BlueNotes Feat. Sugar Bear

The Fabulous Ms. Mills was joined by other classic R&B acts like The Intruders, Keith Washington, The Delfonics featuring Wilbert Hart, Force MD’s, First Choice, Harold Melvin’s BlueNotes , Allure, After 7, Regina Belle, The Honey Cone, Black Ivory, Evelyn Champagne-King, Russell Thompkins Jr and the New Stylistics who also brought their soulful sounds to the stage.

This festival is a perfect opportunity for people who love classic R&B music to come together and enjoy some of the most iconic artists of the genre. It’s a great way to relive the past and remember some of the most classic songs from the golden era of R&B. It’s an event that should never be missed by any fans of R&B music.

The HoneyCone

The 15th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival was not only a celebration of great music but also a celebration of the genre’s rich history. The festival brought together classic R&B acts who have been in the industry for decades and contemporary R&B acts who are shaping the future of the genre.

Another highlight of this incredible music festival was the presentation of The Bernard E. King Legends Award Dinner honoring the host, Maurice “The Voice Watts” for 40 years on Radio and The After 7 Legacy Award. In 1992, Maurice “The Voice” Watts “created his own legacy as an on air radio personality of “The Love Zone”, a show heard around the world from NYC to Tokyo Japan. The After 7 Legacy Awards followed and was presented to current members of the group Kevon Edmonds, Keith Mitchell and Daniel McClain. The group continues to perform and tour the world wowing R&B fans with their energetic performances.

The Food!

More Food!

The festival organizers did an incredible job of creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for music lovers of all ages. The crowd was diverse, and everyone was there to have a good time.

The 15th Annual R&B Classic Music festival was a big success and has solidified its place as one of the best R&B Music festivals on the East Coast.

Overall, the 15th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival at Kalahari Resorts was an unforgettable week of music and memories. With an incredible lineup of talented artists, the festival brought together R&B music lovers of all ages to celebrate the genre and its rich history. BackBeat R&B can’t wait for the 16th annual festival coming in 2024! We will be there.

*For more information on the 16th Annual Classic R&B Music Festival click the link: https://classicrandbevents.com/

January 29, 2023 0 comment

Did You Know Remember When

WE LOVE THE ICONIC 60’S, 70’S AND 80’S, A TESTAMENT TO THE ENDURING POWER OF R&B!

by BELINDA January 27, 2023

written by BELINDA

R&B music has been a staple in American culture for decades, and the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s were no exception. Those decades produced some of the most iconic and enduring R&B songs of all time. From Marvin Gaye to Michael Jackson, the R&B music of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by music lovers of all ages.

Starting with the 60’s, “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye is considered one of the greatest R&B songs of all time. Released in 1971, this socially conscious anthem addresses issues such as poverty, war, and police brutality. It was a departure from Gaye’s previous work. Another classic from the 60’s is “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Gladys Knight & the Pips. This timeless hit, released in 1968, is a soulful masterpiece that showcases Knight’s powerful vocals and the Pips’ tight harmonies. Another notable song of the era is “Respect” by Aretha Franklin, originally recorded by Otis Redding in 1965, but Franklin’s version, released in 1967, became a feminist anthem and reached number one on the R&B chart in the U.S.

Moving on to the 70’s, Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” is one of the most iconic R&B songs of the decade. Released in 1972, this funk-infused hit features Wonder’s signature harmonica playing and showcases his incredible musicianship. Another classic from the 70’s is “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye. This sensual ballad, released in 1973, is a timeless love song that showcases Gaye’s soulful vocals and masterful production. Another notable song of the era is “Sexual Healing” by Marvin Gaye, released in 1982 after his death, it reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male in 1983.

Finally, the 80’s saw the rise of Michael Jackson as a dominant force in the R&B world. “Billie Jean” is one of his most iconic and enduring hits, released in 1982, it topped the charts in several countries and cemented Jackson’s status as a pop music icon. Another classic from the 80’s is “Ain’t Nobody” by Chaka Khan, released in 1983, it reached number one on the R&B chart and number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. Another notable song of the era is “I Want Your Sex” by George Michael, released in 1987, it reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and is considered one of the most controversial songs of the decade.

In conclusion, the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s were a golden era for R&B music, and these songs continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by music lovers of all ages. From socially conscious anthems to sensual ballads, these songs have stood the test of time and remain a testament to the enduring power of R&B music.

January 27, 2023 0 comment

Did You Know

THE GODFATHER OF NEO-SOUL ROY AYERS!

by BELINDA January 22, 2023

written by BELINDA

Roy Ayers is a legendary jazz and R&B musician, known for his smooth and soulful sound that has inspired countless artists in the music industry. He is also known as the Godfather of Neo-Soul. Ayers began his career as a jazz vibraphonist, but he soon began incorporating elements of R&B, funk, and soul into his music. This fusion of genres helped to establish him as one of the most influential and respected musicians of the 1970s and 1980s.

Ayers was born in Los Angeles in 1940 and began playing the vibraphone at the age of five. By the age of 21, he had already recorded his first album as a bandleader, and he quickly established himself as a rising star in the jazz scene. In the 1970s, Ayers began incorporating more R&B and funk influences into his music, releasing a string of successful albums such as “He’s Coming”, “Red Black & Green” and “Everybody Loves the Sunshine”. These albums featured a mix of original compositions and covers of popular songs, and they helped to establish Ayers as a major force in the R&B and soul music scene.

In the 1980s, Ayers continued to innovate and evolve his sound, releasing albums such as “In The Dark” and “No Stranger to Love” which featured a more electronic and funk-influenced sound. He also collaborated with a wide range of artists, including funk legend George Clinton and R&B singer Phyllis Hyman.

Ayers’ influence can be heard in the music of many artists, including A Tribe Called Quest, Erykah Badu, and Kendrick Lamar, who have all cited Ayers as an inspiration. His smooth and soulful sound has also been used in a number of films and television shows, including “Black Dynamite” and “Insecure”

In recent years, Ayers has continued to tour and perform, and he has also released a number of new albums. He has been honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP).

In conclusion, Roy Ayers is a true legend in the world of jazz and R&B music. His smooth and soulful sound has inspired countless artists, and his legacy continues to live on through his music. If you’re a fan of jazz, R&B, and soul music, then you owe it to yourself to check out the music of Roy Ayers.

January 22, 2023 0 comment

Who's Touring

12 LEGENDARY ARTISTS WHO ARE STILL PERFORMING STRONG?

by BELINDA March 24, 2019

written by BELINDA

Many times we don’t think about our favorite singers until we hear them singing one of our favorite songs on the radio, tv, or at a party. How many times have you gone to a party and a classic hit song from “Back in the Day is played and you say, I wonder whatever happened to that group or singer? We know where “Smokey”, “Stevie”, “The O’Jays” and even “The Temptations are but do you ever wonder where Billy Ocean, Freda Payne, The Dramatics, Tavares, and Bill Withers are and what they are doing. Well, have I got news for you, those legendary Artist are still performing and going strong as ever.

Of course, their music is played all the time on the radio but, there are still those of us who wonder if they are actually doing live performances. BackBeat R&B has compiled a list of legendary artists from yesteryear who are on Tour or performing live at different concert venues in the U.S. If you are interested in seeing their performances just click on the link. Be sure to check their Social Media pages like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (If they have one) for other tour information too!

Freda Payne https://www.fredapayne.com/ Sam Moore (Sam & Dave ) https://sammoore.net/