Dell Music Center—–Philly’s own Carol Riddick set the right tone for tonight’s concert at the Dell. This songwriter has performed in front of her hometown crowd and around the world, winning fans with her sultry voice, energy, and stage presence.This songstress-songwriter has graced stages from her hometown of Philadelphia and across the globe, winning fans, and admirers with her extraordinary voice and presence. Highly acclaimed in the music community for her vocal ability, mesmerizing performances, and genuinely warm personality, Carol is a unique entertainer whose evolution is constantly changing.
Born and raised in South Philadelphia, music has been a part of her life since she was very young. It was in her early adulthood that the industry took notice of her vocal talent when she started touring with Will Smith and Jazzy Jeff. Since then, Carol has blessed the tracks of many distinguished artists. She is featured on records by Anthony Hamilton, Jill Scott, Norman Brown, Kindred The Family Soul, and a host of others. Most notably, her distinct vocal delivery can be heard on Musiq’s “Soulstar,” the title track on his multi-platinum album.
After partnering with Axis Music Group, a Philadelphia-based record company, Carol creatively spearheaded the creation of her debut CD. What some may consider a massive undertaking for an artist came naturally to Carol, who co-produced and co-wrote the majority of the tunes on “Moments Like This.” Carol has collaborated with Grammy award-winning producers and songwriters including James Poyser (Erykah Badu, The Roots), Anthony Bell (Jill Scott, Jewel), Carvin Haggins & Ivan Barias (Musiq, Faith Evans). Carol’s fondness for the Philly International and Motown recordings on which she grew up is reflected in her debut album, “Moments Like This,” which carries on the tradition of music that moves people.
Her Sophomore project “Love Phases” which included the soul-stirring single “Love Like I’ve Never Been Hurt Before” was scheduled for release in January of 2015 and its collection of songs expressing facets of the joy and hurt of love; whether it be romantic or self-love. In addition to her solo efforts, Carol also lent her impressive background vocal ability to musically acclaimed R&B crooner and Prince of Sophisticated Soul Will Downing, with his live performances, appearing as one of his background vocalists. Carol’s performance of the riveting duet “Nothing Has Ever Felt,” initially recorded by Will Downing and the incomparable Rachelle Ferrell, is sure to take your breath away.
Riddick blessed us with songs like: “Once You Let Go”, “Brown Sugar”, “Brown Eyed Girl”, “Cherish The Day”, “Anytime Anyplace”, “You Got Me”, “Long Walk”, “If Only You Knew”, “Come Go With Me” and closed her set out with Frankie Beverly and Maze, “We Are One”.
Carol beautiful spirit, sensuous stage shows, and passionate vocal delivery will surely soothe your ears and alter your spirit in the most alluring way.
Dave Hollister blessed the stage next in grandiose fashion. Hollister is an R&B artist known for his soulful voice and captivating performances. Born in 1968, he first gained fame as a member of the R&B group Blackstreet in the early 1990s. Later, he pursued a solo career and released several successful albums, showcasing his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics.
Hollister has released several famous songs throughout his career that have resonated with R&B and soul music lovers. Here are a few of his notable tracks: 1. “One Woman Man” – A standout hit from his debut album “Ghetto Hymns,” this song showcases Hollister’s smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics as he sings about his loyalty to one special woman. 2. “Can’t Stay” – Another popular track from “Ghetto Hymns,” this song explores the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship and features Hollister’s signature soulful delivery. 3. “My Favorite Girl” – This track from his album “Chicago ’85… The Movie” is a love song that became a fan favorite, capturing Hollister’s ability to convey deep emotions through his music.
4. “Take Care of Home” – From the same album, this song addresses the importance of nurturing a relationship and maintaining a strong foundation. 5. “Baby Mama Drama” – This song from “Things in the Game Done Changed” addresses the complexities of co-parenting and relationships with the mother of one’s child. 6. “Spend the Night” –
A sensual and romantic track from his album “The Book of David,” showcasing Hollister’s continued exploration of love and relationships. 7. “Pleased Tonight” – From the same album, this song is a smooth and mellow R&B track that highlights his vocal prowess. These songs represent just a portion of Dave Hollister’s discography, which spans across several albums and decades. His music often explores themes of love, loyalty, and personal growth, making his songs relatable and impactful to many listeners.
This evening, at the Dell welcomed the suave crooner opening to funky track “Geometry” off his 2016 eighth album The Manuscript in refined unison with his fierce band making the attractive venue rock true grown-folk style.
Jamming to fierce single “Keep Lovin’ You” off album Things In The Game Done Changed Hollister’s hit roster included paying tribute to the late great James Brown taking the vibrating audience back to some good old-fashioned throwback music.
Slowing it down just a little, Hollister delivered his own version of Blackstreet’s classic “No Diggity” then got down to the nitty gritty with his crew off several tracks from his 2003 fourth album Real Talk before handing off the mic to showcase his phenomenal background singers including his younger brother with “Tell Me What You Want”.
He continued his set with songs like; “Girl I Gotta Go”, and shut it down with”One Woman Man”.
The Mighty O’Jays were formed in 1958 in Canton, Ohio. The group originally consisted of Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey, and Bill Isles. They began their musical journey by performing together and eventually gained recognition for their soulful R&B sound and socially conscious lyrics. Over the years, the group’s lineup changed, but Eddie Levert and Walter Williams remained as core members throughout their career. They’ve left a significant mark on the R&B and soul music landscape.
In addition to the mentioned hits, some other popular songs by The O’Jays include: 1. “I Love Music” 2. “Use Ta Be My Girl” 3. “Livin’ for the Weekend” 4. “Let Me Make Love to You” 5. “Cry Together” 6. “Darlin’ Darlin’ Baby (Sweet, Tender, Love)” 7. “Sunshine” 8. “Put Your Hands Together” 9. “Time to Get Down” 10. “Give the People What They Want” These songs showcase The O’Jays’ distinctive sound and their ability to create memorable R&B tracks that resonated with audiences.
These well-seasoned mellifluent professionals have graced countless arenas across the region. With a multitude of prestigious awards and honors throughout their career, including two-time inductees in the Grammy Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and 2009 BET Lifetime Achievement Award winners, this astounding trio redefines the word timelessly.
They took a brief intermission from the show to wish long time member Walter Williams an 80th birthday tribute which he was joined on stage with his children.
Williams joined his band mates after his brief celebration and belted out songs like; “For The Love Of Money”, “Used To Be My Girl” and the Mighty Ojays closed out the show with the famous “Love Train” song.
