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The Blind Boys of Alabama |
The after effects of Hurricane Katrina rarely get headlines these days. A historic presidential election, economic troubles, and other natural disasters have seen to that. Still, the suffering continues for many despite the inattention of the national debate. While artists don't have ability to enact policy changes to save a city on the brink, they can use the stage and microphone to draw attention to this ongoing issue.
Thankfully, artists are stepping up to the challenge. The latest in this musical lobbying effort will take place on Sunday at the Kennedy Center, which will host Down by the Riverside. The concert features two groups who not only work to preserve this country's musical heritage, but who have also put out albums to celebrate New Orleans as it tries to recover from that devastating storm.
The Blind Boys of Alabama first formed in 1939 at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind. Though only one of its founding vocalists remains with the group, soulful lead Jimmy Lee Carter, the Blind Boys tour throughout the world and have released nearly a dozen albums in just this decade. Their latest, Down in New Orleans, was the result of a post-Katrina visit the gospel group made to New Orleans.
"After Katrina, we decided to go to New Orleans to sing songs to lift the spirit of the people," explained Blind Boys drummer and tour manager, Ricky McKinnie, who sees an analogy between his group's story and that of New Orleans.
"Even though we all have disabilities, The Blind Boys are not about limitations, just like the destruction of new Orleans did not destroy or limit the musicianship of the city," he told DCist.
The Preservation Hall Jazz Band |
Down in New Orleans features a variety guest artists, all associated with the city's rich musical heritage. They include the great Allen Toussaint and another Crescent City treasure, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, who will be sharing the stage on Sunday.
Named for the legendary French Quarter venue, Preservation Hall is a custodian to the traditional New Orleans jazz sound. The group recorded its own response to Katrina, The Hurricane Sessions, in 2006, and have teamed up with the Blind Boys for this co-headlining tour that will last into early next year.
McKinnie speaks fondly of the collaboration. "When experts meet experts, the best comes out," he declared. "It's a sense of New Orleans with a traditional gospel flavor."
Down by the Riverside will feature a full set by both ensembles and will conclude with the groups sharing the stage. Despite the tragedy that brought about this pairing, Sunday night's audience should expect an evening of infectious grooves, soulful singing, and a celebration of the city's contribution to American culture.
As McKinnie put it,"If you feel like singing, sing. If you feel like dancing, dance. Whatever you feel like doing, do it. If you’re feeling sad, we’ll make you feel glad."
The Blind Boys of Alabama and The Preservation Hall Jazz Band will perform together in Down by the Riverside on Sunday, September 28 at 7 p.m. in the Kennedy Center's concert hall. Tickets are $25 to $65.
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