by Shawn Nowlin
What was initially expected to be a sunny warm day at Elmwood Park instead turned into an evening full of grey skies with temperatures reaching into the 40s. Even under such conditions, it didn’t stop a sizable crowd from coming out Saturday, April 25 and participating in the Family Soul Food & Funk Festival presented by VIBE 100.
Gates opened at 3:00 p.m. giving people a good 90 minutes to take in the various tasty soul food delights, information from local businesses and browse through the vendors the event had to offer.
So Unique Candy Apples owned by Denitra Birkes, Paparazzi $5 Jewelry and Accessories (Carella Anderson), New Covenant Parable Apparel (Marcus and Tanisha Artis), No Question About It Creations (Reggie Martin) & Delish! Sweets and Treats (Cheryl & Micah Cobbs) were just some of the vendors present.
“I had no idea there were so many Black owned businesses here in the area,” said Jade Edwards after finishing a plate from The Kitchen Table Restaurant. “Whether it’s through helping to spread the word or contributing financially…I’m all about supporting our community.”
The true testament whether or not an artist can withstand the test of time can often be attributed to their consistency and rapport with their fan base. Such is the case with the impressive line up of classic funk groups on stage at this event.
The S.O.S. Band (Sounds Of Success) which featured Bruno & Gino Speight; S.L.A.V.E.; Lakeside (which featured Captain Mark Wood); The Deele and DJ Kool all put on unforgettable performances from start to finish. Each performer who graced the stage exuded passion and authenticity taking the term “ live entertainment” to another level.
Hosted by Vibe’s own Kianna Wade–Price and comedian Grave Digger, the two effortlessly kept the crowd actively engaged with their chemistry and creative flair.
“I’m having so much fun…it could be a lot warmer but other than that my family and I are having a great time… I understand now what my mom talks about when she says that old school music is the best,” said Jahlani Cook, a local college student.
Before there were current talents like The Foreign Exchange, Tink, Vivian Green and Aloe Blac, the SOS Band was one of the best in the business.
Active since 1977, SOS Band have released eight official studio albums to date containing countless timeless classics touching many genres from soul to rock.
At no point was the crowd more engaged than when the band performed its mega hit “Just Be Good To You.” Other hits that got similar reactions from the crowd included: “Slide” (S.L.A.V.E.), “Fantastic Voyage” (Lakeside) and “Let Me Clear My Throat” (DJ Kool).
It’s debatable as to which performance drew the biggest reaction. Nevertheless an incredible lineup put on a power-packed show. Without questions, what took place at the “Funk Fest” belongs under the “you had to be there to experience it” category.
