If you love soul music, you won’t want to miss this amazing concert by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, the band that revived the classic sound of the 60s and 70s with their authentic and energetic performances. The group, led by the charismatic Sharon Jones, has been touring the world for more than a decade, delivering their blend of funk, gospel, and R&B to the delight of their loyal fans.
On May 18, 2014, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings took the stage of the Ancienne Belgique in Bruxels and rocked the house with their soulful tunes.
The concert was part of their tour to promote their fifth studio album, Give the People What They Want, which was released in January 2014 after a delay due to Sharon Jones’ diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
The album, which received critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination, showcases the band’s versatility and maturity, as they explore different themes and styles, from the upbeat and catchy “Stranger to My Happiness” to the poignant and heartfelt “We Get Along”.
The show started with a bang, as the Dap-Kings, the eight-piece backing band, warmed up the crowd with their tight and funky instrumental grooves. The horn section, composed of saxophones, trumpet, and trombone, was particularly impressive, as they delivered powerful and precise solos and harmonies. The rhythm section, featuring drums, bass, guitar, and keyboards, was equally solid, providing the foundation and the groove for the songs.
After a few minutes, the band introduced the star of the night, Sharon Jones, who entered the stage with a radiant smile and a sparkling dress. She wasted no time and launched into the first song, “Retreat!”, a defiant and energetic anthem that showcases her powerful and soulful voice.
She then greeted the audience and thanked them for their support, especially during her battle with cancer. She said she was feeling good and ready to give the people what they want: some soul music!
And that’s exactly what she did, as she performed a selection of songs from her latest album, as well as some of her classics, such as “100 Days, 100 Nights”, “I Learned the Hard Way”, and “How Do I Let a Good Man Down?”. She also paid tribute to some of her influences, such as James Brown, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin, by covering some of their songs, such as “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World”, “Proud Mary”, and “Respect”.
Throughout the show, Sharon Jones displayed her amazing talent and charisma, as she sang, danced, and interacted with the audience. She invited some fans to join her on stage and dance with her, she told stories and jokes, and she even gave a lesson on how to do the “funky chicken”. She was a joy to watch, as she expressed her passion and joy for music and life.
The band was also incredible, as they followed and supported Sharon Jones with their impeccable musicianship and professionalism. They also had their moments to shine, as they performed some instrumental interludes and solos. They were clearly having fun, as they smiled and grooved along with Sharon Jones and the crowd.
The concert ended with a standing ovation from the audience, who cheered and clapped for more. Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings obliged and came back for an encore, performing two more songs: “This Land Is Your Land”, a cover of the Woody Guthrie classic, and “Tell Me”, a funky and catchy tune from their first album. They then thanked the audience and left the stage, leaving behind a satisfied and happy crowd.
It was a memorable night, as Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings delivered a spectacular show that showcased their talent, energy, and soul. They proved that they are one of the best live acts in the world, and that they are not only giving the people what they want, but also what they need: some good, old-fashioned soul music.
