Philadelphia, PA – The Dell Music Center was the place to be on August 16, 2024, as Essence of Entertainment presented a night filled with soul, rhythm, and celebration. The event was a tribute to the legendary Joan Myers Brown, founder of PHILADANCO, and it was nothing short of spectacular.
As the evening started, LENNY WILLIAMS took the stage. His powerful voice and emotional delivery left the audience spellbound. Under the starlit sky, he performed some of his greatest hits, creating a magical atmosphere that was the perfect way to start off an unforgettable night. He sung timeless classic like:”Midnight Girl” “You Got Me Running”, “Choosing You”, and “Cause I Love You”.
The night continued with performances by THE MANHATTANS and BLUE MAGIC. Each group brought their unique style and charisma, captivating the audience with their classic songs. The harmonies were flawless, and the nostalgia was thick in the air as fans reminisced about the good old days.
The Manhattans, who brought their smooth, romantic ballads to the stage. The group, which has undergone several lineup changes over the years, still exudes the same charm and vocal chemistry that made them famous. They opened with “Shining Star,” a Grammy-winning hit that showcased their tight harmonies and soulful delivery. “Kiss and Say Goodbye” was, as expected, the highlight of their set, with the entire audience joining in for the chorus. The group also performed “There’s No Me Without You,” a touching ballad that resonated deeply with the audience.
The next group gave the audience a dose of classic soul, courtesy of the legendary Blue Magic. Known for their silky harmonies and timeless hits from the 70s, Blue Magic brought a sense of nostalgia to the evening that resonated deeply with the audience. As the group took the stage, they were greeted with enthusiastic applause from fans, both young and old, who were eager to hear the music that has stood the test of time.
Blue Magic opened their set with “Sideshow,” their signature hit that had the crowd singing along from the very first note. The group’s harmonies were as smooth as ever, transporting the audience back to an era when soul music dominated the airwaves. The performance was polished and filled with the kind of emotion that only comes from decades of experience.
They continued with other beloved tracks like “Spell“,”Stop to Start,” and “What’s Come Over Me”each song met with applause and appreciation from the crowd. The group’s effortless vocal interplay and engaging stage presence were a testament to their enduring appeal. Blue Magic’s performance was a beautiful reminder of the roots of R&B, setting a nostalgic yet vibrant tone for the rest of the evening.
After a break in the set there was a breathtaking performance by PHILADANCO, honoring Joan Myers Brown. The dancers moved with grace and power, their movements telling stories of resilience and triumph. The audience was mesmerized, giving a standing ovation that echoed through the venue.
To close the night out was BLOODSTONE, who took the stage with their timeless hits. Their soulful melodies and smooth harmonies transported the crowd back to the golden era of R&B. The energy was electric as fans sang along to every word, swaying to the rhythm. They hit the crowd with:”Go On And Cry”, “Outside Woman”, “We Go A Long Way Back”, “Natural High”, and “Never Let You Go”.
The crowd’s reactions were a testament to the success of the event. Cheers, applause, and even a few tears of joy filled The Dell Music Center. It was a night that celebrated not only the incredible talent of the performers but also the rich history and culture of music and dance.
For those who attended, it was a night to remember. And for those who missed it, the stories and memories shared by those who were there will surely keep the spirit of the event alive.
