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Great stuff as always from DJ Kemit, as he presents his Donny Hathaway tribute mix as promo in conjunction with the live tribute last night in Atlanta. By all accounts, it was an incredible event featuring Avery Sunshine, Carmen Rodgers, Terrance Downs, India Arie and Frank McComb.
Many of us have seen countless renditions of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. but never quite like this. The stage production, “I Dream” is a theatrical blend of history and music that travels through the hardships and triumphs of “a preacher from Atlanta” who would later become the voice of a movement. The production begins with a “young” Martin trying to find his way while being nestled in the racially charged culture of the South. In an effort to seek his path, we see not only his experiences but the cultivating relationships that would later sculpt his dream.
One of those voices was played beautifully by indie soul vocalist and musician, Avery Sunshine. Her role as the uplifting “Grandma” was so fitting of Avery’s talent in touching the heart and emotional chords of a song. From her performance of “Sunday Best” to the sentimental “Midnight Moon”, you forgot it was Avery and really connected to the warmth of the character she portrayed. As things progress, we began to see the emergence of a “self-assured” Martin as he finds his call not only through the struggle for freedom but in his own personal trials.
Played by Quentin Earl Darrington, we start to further relate with King’s inward turmoil as a man desiring to protect his family and a leader who must sacrifice in the performance of “An Attack At Midnight”. Complimentary in statue was “House of Payne” cast member, Demetria McKinney who played “Coretta Scott King”. I was truly blown away by her vocal strength in the selection, “A Man Like You”. Hands down, this was her shining moment and in my opinion a wonderful testament to Coretta’s beauty and power within King’s life. Overall this Douglas Tappin production directed through the infectious passion of Jasmine Guy is a must see! Through the foundational element of music, “the story of a preacher from Atlanta” ties us not only to the greatness of this man but a God-inspired dream!
Please be sure to check out “I Dream” at the Alliance Stage of the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta and see some of our pics of some notable guests such as Bernice King, Jasmine Guy, Christine King Farris and others at the “after-show” reception. (more…)
“I Dream” is a musical celebration and journey through the life and work of a man whose prophetic and historical significance has become legend. The story of the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is now a self-proclaimed rhythm-and-blues opera opening in Atlanta on July 9, 2010. The musical features GFM fave Avery Sunshine. (more…)
For those of you who missed the “1st Hit Listening Lounge” with Avery Sunshine last week, have no fear!!! We figured we can bring the “Lounge” to you!!! Check out the picture and video highlights from Ms. Sunshine along with special guests, Mark Nelson and Chantae Cann. (more…)
The latest podcast from Stevie Robinson a curator of Indie Soul in the truest sense of the word. Listen to these artists that she has so lovingly presented here, learn about them and then spread the word!
This episode of Efficacy features Atlanta based singer-songwriter-pianist Avery Sunshine. Avery’s new project Avery*Sunshine recently debuted at Number 3 on the iTunes chart for R&B/Soul. (more…)
DJ Phaze is back with a little mix to ease you into your holiday weekend. This one has some surprises for you. So hit play, download and enjoy. Check the playlist after the jump. Have a great weekend!
Good n Grown Mix 2.0 by GrownFolksMusic
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The good folks over at soulBEAUTIFUL inc. have provided us with a preview into the world of Ms. Avery Sunshine courtesy of Dome Records. Available THIS MONDAY 10TH MAY, so please support good music and purchase your copy. You can download the preview here. (more…)
