Philadelphia, PA–2022’s Essence of Entertainment Series at the Dell Music Center was truly an unforgettably fascinating showcase filled with a star-studded roster of Grammy winning multiplatinum R&B and Jazz artists that are no longer keeping Philly’s “best kept secret” under wraps.
The production’s season finale being saved the best for last was a title well-suited as this years Patty Jackson’s Party In The Park held special tribute to the seasoned radio dignitary commemorating her forty year broadcasting career with a world class lineup featuring Freddie Jackson, Tony, Toni, Tone’, and Stephanie Mills offering the perfect finish in honor of the beautiful air-wave pioneer.
From her humble beginnings as an intern for former Camden, New Jersey radio station WSSJ to her game changing surname at Philly’s country station WXTU’s then urban platform, the warmly toned DJ legend received her break as a covering host before building her inviting moniker to the renowned celebrity status she’s earned as a radio personality, entertainment correspondent, community activist, and official host of the Dell Music Center.
Suffering from a stroke in 2005 after the death of her beloved mother, the hostess extraordinaire continues to live a fruitful life bringing reciprocal love and light to the entertainment world in addition to her native City of Brotherly Love.
Opening the honorary celebration was the tantalizing sounds of American Music Award winning Soul/R&B sensation Freddie Jackson firing up the venue with classic hits “Nice N’ Slow“, “Have You Ever Loved Somebody“, including succulent single “Tasty Love” off his 1986 second platinum album Just Like The First Time and 1988 Gold third release Don’t Let Love Slip Away taking fans through a trip down lovers lane.
The two-time Grammy nominated vintage romancer continued his hit list rocking to fan favorite “Jam Tonight” while replaying his love spells on “I don’t Wanna Lose Your Love“, “You Are My Lady”, and “Rock Me Tonight” from his 1985 self-titled debut platinum album bringing back that slow grinding, red-light special music vibe.
Following the amorous crooner was the funky tunes of Oakland’s melodic trio Tony, Toni, Tone’ taking it back to that old school flavor with renditions to timeless Sugar Hill Hip Hop track “Rapper’s Delight“, Parliament’s “Flashlight” and Cameo’s “Candy” dishing out their multi talented psychedelic swagger.
Fine tuning the tempo, the American Music Award winning trilogy flawlessly delivered “It Never Rains (In Southern California)” along with “Whatever You Want” from their 1990 second platinum release The Revival then swaying admirers to all-time ballads “Lay Your Head On My Pillow“, “Anniversary” off 1993 double platinum album Sons of Soul jamming out to classic jam “It Feels Good” rocking the mature crowd.
Adding the final touch to the glorious affair was bonafide dynamic diva Stephanie Mills flossing her powerhouse vocals to a handful of her top number one jams “(You’re Puttin‘) A Rush On Me” off her 1987 Gold/Platinum eleventh album If I Were Your Woman, 1985 hit single “I Have Learned To Respect The Power Of Love“, and Teddy Pendergrass smash duet “Two Hearts” refueling the already elated sold-out bash.
The multi award leading songstress slayed the remainder of her chart topping playlist to “The Comfort Of A Man“, “Something In The Way (You Make Me Feel)”, “Never Knew Love Like This Before“, “Feel The Fire“, and 1989 signature track “Home” closing her spectacular set.
In support of the wonderful Patty Jackson, our 4.0 Sports and Entertainment team extend our appreciation to Susan Slawson, Facetta Garrison-Greene, Jordan Newsome, Platinum Productions, and the entire Dell Music Center staff for showcasing such an amazing annual summer concert series, commencing the countdown to next season.
