Economic challenges and other serious concerns made 2009 a “dramatic” year for many people.
However, now that 2010 is here it is time to put away that stress for at least one evening. It is time to “Get Up and Get Down” and “Shake It Well” to the music of one of the world’s most popular soul/R&B groups.
The Dramatics will perform in the Circle City on Friday Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Music Mill, 3720 E. 82nd St. They will appear as part of the Old School New Year’s Bash that will also feature local jazz legend Brenda Williams and popular Indianapolis R&B/funk ensemble The Down Stroke Band.
The event is being organized, in large part, as a birthday tribute celebration to Dr. Rev. Theron Williams, pastor of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. Over the last decade the historic congregation has experienced significant growth, and recently opened a new facility at 9610 E. 42nd St.
“I’m certainly looking forward to inviting the community to join as we celebrate with these fantastic artists,” said Williams.
Best known for their classic slow jam “In the Rain,” The Dramatics were formed in Detroit during the late 1960s.
Although the quintet began its recording career immediately it did not experience significant success on R&B and pop charts until 1971’s “Whatcha’ See is Whatcha Get,’” which was followed by “Get Up and Get Down,” another dance favorite. “In the Rain” topped the R&B charts for four weeks in 1972.
The Dramatics built a loyal fan base as a live act with exciting choreography, flawless harmonies and the energetic lead vocals of gruff baritone singers William “Wee Gee” Howard and L.J. Reynolds, as well as falsetto singer Ron Banks.
Throughout the rest of 1970s and into the mid 1980s The Dramatics continued to score a succession of club classics and enchanting ballads such as 1974’s “Toast to the Fool,” 1975’s “Fooling You,” 1977’s “Be My Girl,” 1978’s “Ocean of Thoughts and Dreams” and “Welcome Home” from 1980.
Today The Dramatics’ lineup includes founding members Banks and Willie Ford, longtime lead vocalist Reynolds, Winzell Kelly and Michael Brock. The group is currently working on “Bad Girls,” a new studio album set for release later this year.
“We just appreciate our fans for the support they have given us throughout our career,” said Reynolds. We’re thankful to still be a part of the music industry and we are still dedicated to providing quality entertainment and giving back the love that our fans have given us.”
The Downstoke Band performs throughout Central Indiana at clubs, wedding receptions, corporate parties and other events. The group specializes in playing vintage R&B/funk music from the 1970s and 80s. Its members have played on the local music scene for many years and have performed with some of the most popular acts in popular music, including Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, After 7, The Deele, Kenny Dodson and the 70s R&B band Manchild.
Brenda Williams is a singer and actress who’s been praised for her amazing vocal range. Although best known for performing jazz and blues music, Williams can skillfully sing in any style. She has performed in venues throughout the country, including the White House, and has appeared as the opening act for artists such as Ray Charles, The Beach Boys, Lee Greenwood and Chuck Mangione.
Did you know:
n Although from Detroit The Dramatics were not part of Motown Records (which had more talent than it could handle), but recorded with the legendary Stax label with Otis Redding, The BarKays, Isaac Hayes and Booker T. and The MG’s.
n The Dramatics recorded their most recent album, “Look Inside” in 2002 and is set to release a new project this year.
n Rapper Snoop Doggy Dogg covered the song “Fell For You,” and the group sang the chorus to his song “Doggy Dog World.”
Have some fun!
What: Old School Bash featuring The Dramatics, Brenda Williams and The Down Stroke Band.
When: Friday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m.
Where: Music Mill, 3720 E. 82nd St.
Tickets: $25-$30
For more information, call (317) 841-1850.
