[Pics] Bar-Kays 50th Anniversary Gala

Memphis sets the stage to honor its very own in celebrating 50 years of extraordinary music. The announcement of this tribute sent groove signals across the country to return to the birthplace of soul and the sound was heard with an outpouring response. Fans and artists alike packed out The Cannon Center for the effortlessly “Too hot to Stop” pioneers for what turned into the Bluff City’s hottest night in December.

The ageless (61 yr-old) and Oh-so tall (6’3) and handsome Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, who accredits his charming looks to keeping up with his grand kids, pulled from his busy schedule of acting and directing in 2 upcoming films to host this momentous event. He was accompanied by Memphis native, beautiful actress and hostess for the evening Elise Neal, currently starring in Hollywood Divas. Amongst both host & hostess, Jacobs & Neal, was world renowned first human beatbox Godfather & final host Doug E. Fresh. All honored participants & diehard fans of the legendary Bar-Kays.

Alongside the Honorary Bar-Kays; Con Funk Shun, The Dazz Band and S.O.S. Band were a few of the notorious leading bands that blessed the stage and set the mood to “shake your rump to the funk”…legendary, Sir Charles Jones, questioned the audience with his back alley blues hit “Is there anybody lonely?”, FunkMaster George Clinton brought the funk and Ladies of the legend “The Mary Jane Girls” tore down the stage with seductive hit “All Night Long”…And if you think for one moment these veteran soul legends tapped out before midnight you stand corrected.

Larry Dodson, lead vocalist of the BarKays, declared on the red carpet the night what’s going to be “fun, Fun, FUN” and all Anticipation was met. The legendary BarKays delivered with all the grooves that make your body move from hits in over 30 albums produced in those 50 years. The love of the art and appreciation for the support of fans for 5 decades was felt in all 2,100 seats in the Cannon Center that housed the most “get-down” “gotta groove” “grown folks”.

Bar-Kays, thank you for gifting us with your incredible talents. You are the beat of our soul, the funk in our functions, the peace at our family reunions, and life of our parties….You are a reputable influence and reflection of our great city. From 50 to a Century….Salute!