By Marc Berman
The National Rhythm and Blues Music Society Founder and President, Vannessa Jordan-Gaston said the organization is “dedicated to preserving, promoting and honoring classic soul/R&B music and the legends of the 60s, 70s, & 80s that paved the way for artists today.”
Those honored are a legacy of the American soundtrack of our life, touching music lovers with their music, message, and rhythms around the world.
Honorees at the 2022 event included Keni Burke of The Five Stairsteps, Claudette Robinson of The Miracles, Motown Records songwriter Janie Bradford, vocal group The Tymes, Shirley Jones and The Jones Girls, solo artist Lillo Thomas and Philadelphia songwriters and producing team Charles Simmons, Bruce Hawes (RIP), and Joseph Jefferson (RIP). Wil Hart Original member of the Delfonics received an 11 times platinum award.
The hosts for the evening who were animated, funny, and captivating, were radio personality Maurice “The Voice” Watts, Alyson Williams, Bowlegged Lou of Full Force, Meli’sa Morgan, and Stuart Bascombe original member of Black Ivory who performed “O-o-h Child”, in tribute to Kenneth M. “Keni” Burke Original member of the 5 Stair-steps.
This was a star-studded evening. Attendees included original members of Blue Magic, Black Ivory, The Unifics, Touch of Class, Soul Generation, The System, The Rude Boys, The Delfonics Wil Hart, former Heavyweight Champion Ray Mercer.
The capacity crowd truly appreciated and loved the incredible tribute performances by, Dennis Taylor, MonRay Francois, Libby Cabello, and the National Rhythm & Blues All-Star Band conducted by Ty Turner.
Black Ivory’s Stuart Bascome performed “Rising to the Top” the 1982 hit by original 5 Stairsteps member and honoree Keni Burke. Also taking the stage in the Claridge Theater hitmakers Allure performed a tribute to the Jones Girls and Honoree Shirley Jones surviving member of the Jones Girls joined them on stage. Dennis Taylor, MonRay Francois, and Libby Cabello’s tribute to the Tymes featured their performance of So Much In Love.
The finale brought honorees and performers together for another soulful rendition of Ooh Child Past honorees include Little Anthony of The Imperials, The Isley Brothers, Kool & The Gang, Tavares, Betty Wright, Kathy Sledge, Jean Carne, Millie Jackson, Regina Belle, Will Downing, The Manhattans, The Chi-Lites, Gamble & Huff of Philadelphia International Records and a host of others.
Announced at the gala, the establishment of the National Rhythm and Blues Music Society Walk of Fame in Brighton Park, Atlantic City in 2023.
Before the award ceremony in the theater, the Black Tie Dinner took place in the Claridge Grand Ballroom with an incredible view of Brighton Park where the National Rhythm and Blues Society Walk of Fame will be located.
For more information about the National Rhythm and Blue Music Society and to Donate to this 501C3 visit: www.rnbmusicsociety.com.
Marc Berman is a Former Talk Radio Host, Travel Photogrpaher and Director Of Marketing for Berman Travel. Prior to that, Marc owned Marc Berman Entertainment, a very successful DJ company in Philadelphia from 1978 thru 2004. Marc is a strong advocate for Atlantic City and that’s where he and wife Susan live year round.
