Story by James Walker, Jr.
The 20th annual Festival recently held over the Labor Day Weekend was another
success. With ideal Chicago weather , this festival climaxed on Labor Day with
an exceptional concert by George Clinton and the Parliament-Funkadelic band. This
two hour set was highlighted by the surprise appearance of Sly Stone. Without
any announcement, Sly appeared on stage and immediately began singing some of his
old hits. The audience was absolutely ecstatic!!
In addition to the exceptional music, the crowd was entertained throughout the
weekend in the "Drumming Village" by the Kenya Safari Acrobats. These young men
were amazing with their daredevil acrobatics.
Other acts viewed by this writer included "Los 3 de la Habana" who recently
migrated to the U.S. from Cuba.Their combined sounds of Cuban percussion
complemented by outstanding vocals was infectious.
Special mention must be given to South African vocalist Lorraine Klaasen who
graced the main stage with her upbeat style and stage presence. She sings in
several languages and her delivery captivated the audience.
Local vocalist Ugochi also made her impact on the audience with her variety of
vocals featuring hip-hop, R&B, Jazz and Reggae(she can often be seen at the Wild
Hair on the north side). Much of her set was taken from her critically acclaimed
cd "African Butterfly".
In the same vein, Reggae vocalist Fada Dougou paid tribute to the late legendary
Jamacian vocalist Bob Marley, with his "Who Shot The Sheriff". This number
certainly pleased those in attendance.
This festival unlike most in Chicago is a diverse display of talent from all
over the world and this was quite obvious with the appearance of the beautiful"
Khalidah's North African Dance Experience" attired in their lovely native garb.
And finally, what would a Chicago festival be like without a Gospel Choir. This
city is noted for outstanding gospel music and the Pleasant Green Missionary
Baptist Church Choir represented this genre extremely well with their set on
Labor Day.
In addition to the musical acts, the heart of the Festival is the African
Marketplace featuring more than 300 artists and vendors with a variety of
Afrocentric wares and food.
Because this festival conflicts with the the Chicago Jazz Festival the first
three days, this writer would like to recommend that the organizers feature
their Main stage Jazz act on Labor Day, after the completion of the downtown jazz
fest.That would afford those Jazz fans an opportunity to partake in both
festivals over a four day period.
