Page 6b The Fayetteville Press Newspaper March 2010 Edition Community News

Community Concert Series brings Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge

The night was sprinkled with various genres of music—from jazz, blues, R&B and disco. There was a walk with Billie Holiday, and a riveting rendition of the Jump blues hit, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy—made famous by the Andrew Sisters. All demonstrated the group‘s range and cohesive four-part harmony. Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy is ranked sixth among the Songs of the Century. Another highlight of the evening came with audience partici- pation. Before the Sledge’s career exploded with “We Are Fam- ily”, “He’s the Greatest Dancer” was the first number one hit from that same album. With the house lights up, Kathy combed the au- dience looking for the ‘greatest dancer’, and asked them to join the group on stage. Once the choreographed portion ended, it was all impromptu. Individually, the nine dancers from the audience anx- iously waited for their cue. Then, they were introduced and given the spotlight to show their stuff. Jae Jae McKrae, Kathy Sledge & Jackie Carter David Hinkamp, a Fayetteville jewelry store owner, was eas- Arika Kane, Big Score ily the crowd favorite. Kathy recognized it, and said she was gonna save him for last. David didn’t disappoint them. All the dancers Entertainment (BSE) releases debut CD By Jae McKrae were applauded, but David Hinkamp’s performance sealed it. The Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge of the smash, “We are show shot into overdrive, and you could feel the excitement. by J.McKrae Family,” hit the stage running or shall I say “dancing” at the Crown It was easy to sense most were anticipating the group’s signa- Recording sensation and songwriter Arika Kane, Theatre in Fayetteville Thursday night February 18. When the show ture, We Are Family. The crowd’s roar escalated once they heard the first lady of Big Score Entertainment (BSE) –re- kicked off, Kathy greeted everyone with a heartfelt, “We’re just so the musical intro of the song. When Kathy belted out the chorus, leased her debut CD project simply titled Arika Kane. happy to finally be here. We’re going to have a good time; let’s everyone sang along. “Just a class act! I’m just happy Fayetteville finally brought keep the groove going!” The CD features her smash Bcuz I Luv U. Re- Cancellations and weather setbacks didn’t prevent fans and back more live entertainment. Love or hate it, disco was a big part friends from getting together for a “We are Family” reunion as part of my past, and me and my wife loved it,” said long time Sister cently, Arika Kane visited the KISS 107.7FM studios of this season’s Community Concert Series. Sledge follower Ken Surles. in Fayetteville, NC. Big Score Entertainment and KISS Many concert goers felt Sister Sledge was a great add. The As the night was winding down, the ladies left the stage in sort also hosted a breakfast and VIP luncheon for two gra- legendary Paul Anka, singer/songwriter canceled earlier this year of a “thank you, we love you” kinda of fashion, and the building cious fans, Zana Saylon and Tine-Kegler-Miller. The was still full of energy. In fact, the antsy crowd got what they due to illness. By the way, Paul Anka co-wrote Michael Jackson’s Fayetteville residents joined Arika at Carrabbas Res- “This is It.” wanted…and Kathy Sledge accompanied by her family of singers returned to the stage and kicked it up a few more notches. taurant. The CD is available in stores and Itunes.

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