Date: November 14, 2024
Location: Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage, NJPAC
Prepare for an electrifying night at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on the Betty Wold Johnson Stage at Prudential Hall, where a powerhouse lineup of legendary musicians and artists will gather on November 14 to pay tribute to the unmatched legacy of funk, soul, and jazz fusion. With luminaries like George Clinton, Bilal, Nona Hendryx, Christian McBride, Savion Glover, and Vernon Reid taking the stage under the musical direction of Ray Chew, this event promises an unforgettable celebration of iconic sounds from P-Funk, Prince, James Brown, and beyond. It’s a rare opportunity to see living legends from diverse backgrounds united in a tribute to the rhythms and grooves that transformed popular music.
A Star-Studded Cast of Funk and Soul Icons
This unique event at NJPAC is bringing together an unparalleled roster of iconic talent, with each artist adding their own voice and flair to the night:
Bilal – Known for his GRAMMY® Award-winning collaborations and his fearless approach to soul, Bilal is a voice that commands attention. Having won a GRAMMY for his contribution to Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly and been nominated for tracks like “Little One” and “Matter,” Bilal’s emotionally charged style adds a deeply soulful layer to the night. His presence embodies the transformative power of funk and soul in today’s music landscape.
Nona Hendryx – Celebrating 50 years of the chart-topping hit “Lady Marmalade,” Nona Hendryx, a founding member of Labelle, brings her boundary-pushing artistry to the stage. Known for her fusion of music with multimedia art, performance, and activism, Hendryx represents the forward-thinking spirit of funk that has always been about more than just music. Her influence on the industry as a vocalist and cultural trailblazer continues to resonate, making her presence at this event particularly special.
Christian McBride – With an illustrious career as an 8-time GRAMMY winner and 16-time nominee, Christian McBride is a virtuoso bassist, composer, bandleader, and NJPAC’s own Jazz Advisor. Known for his work across genres—everything from Monk to funk—McBride brings a versatility and dynamism to the performance that few can match. His soulful basslines provide the rhythmic backbone to an evening celebrating the enduring legacy of funk.
Savion Glover – Often hailed as the best tap dancer of his generation, Tony Award-winning Savion Glover infuses the show with his signature blend of rhythm, energy, and musicality. Known for Bring in ‘da Noise, Bring in ‘da Funk and Shuffle Along, Glover’s mesmerizing style transforms the stage into a rhythmic experience, connecting the roots of jazz dance with the pulsating beats of funk and soul.
Vernon Reid – As the GRAMMY-winning guitarist and founder of the iconic band Living Colour, Vernon Reid is renowned for his lightning-fast solos and genre-bending artistry. His mastery of heavy metal, punk, funk, R&B, and avant-garde jazz has made him a revered figure in modern music. His unpredictable, eclectic style is a perfect fit for a night dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sound.
George Clinton – No celebration of funk would be complete without George Clinton, the Godfather of Funk. As the legendary frontman of Parliament-Funkadelic, Clinton has pioneered the genre, producing some of the most influential albums in modern music. With five decades of music and countless hits, Clinton’s presence guarantees an explosion of energy and the authentic funk spirit that has influenced generations of musicians.
Directed by Ray Chew: The Perfect Conductor for an Epic Night
The event’s musical direction is in the hands of Ray Chew, whose work on Dancing with the Stars, Showtime at the Apollo, and Saturday Night Live has established him as one of the most versatile and respected musical directors in the industry. Chew’s experience orchestrating complex, high-energy shows makes him the ideal leader for a night that spans decades and genres, from soul and jazz to funk and hip-hop. His deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary music ensures that each artist’s contribution shines while also celebrating the genre’s collective power.
A Celebration of Funk, Soul, and Cultural Impact
More than just a concert, this event is a celebration of the cultural impact of funk, soul, and jazz fusion. These genres have long been vehicles for social and political commentary, and the artists performing tonight have each used their platforms to challenge norms, push artistic boundaries, and make bold statements. By honoring legends like P-Funk, James Brown, and Prince, the evening also pays homage to the musicians who have continuously inspired and influenced new generations with their daring innovations and unmatched artistry.
Don’t Miss This One-of-a-Kind Experience
An event of this magnitude—featuring some of the most influential names in funk, soul, jazz, and beyond—doesn’t happen every day. Fans of funk and soul music, jazz enthusiasts, and anyone with an appreciation for groundbreaking artistry will find this night an unmissable spectacle. With each artist bringing their individual style and flavor to the table, and with Ray Chew orchestrating the evening, this celebration of legends is set to be a high-energy, immersive experience that will leave the audience inspired, entertained, and profoundly moved.