This month Ben E King comes to Birmingham. On March 16th, the man responsible for one of the most revered, recognised and replicated songs in history, the simple and poignant ‘Stand By Me’, will be performing at The Jam House inSt Paul’s Square.
In an evening hosted by R’n’B vocalist Gary U.S. Bonds, these two musical foundation blocks of 60’s Americana will be performing signature tunes from their own portfolio’s, alongside classic tracks from inspirations and peers.
Ben E King, who was also a Drifter for 10 recorded songs (including the first cut of ‘Temptation’), has been the creative force behind a bevy of soul classics including ‘Spanish Harlem’, ‘Save The Last Dance For Me’, ‘Here Comes The Night’, ‘It’s Amazing’ and ‘Don’t Play That Song (You Lied)’. His over 50 year musical career started from the grunt work of studio Doo-Wop to becoming one of the most important signings on US based Atlantic Records, inspiring artists including Areatha Franklin, Shirley Bassey and Tom Jones, all of whom have paid homage to King through high profile covers of his work.
Gary U.S. Bonds, who is probably best known for his 1961 studio album ‘Quarter to Three’, started life as a gospel singer before joining unknown 50’s rock and roll group, The Turks. In 1960 he had his first solo release, ‘New Orleans’, which reached No6 in the US Billboard charts. His following single release ‘Quarter to Three’ reached No1, and, despite several following top ten positions, was the only premier position of Bond’s career.
Both Ben E King and Gary U.S. Bonds are also both prolific humanitarians, working closely with world wide aid organisations such as the Global Village Champions Foundation www.gogvm.com
John Bunce, Jam House General Manager, says, “The delight of The Jam House is that we can stage such classic performers on a regular basis and to see such pedigree artists is something that we all look forward too.”
Ben E King and Gary U.S. Bonds will be playing at The Jam House in St Paul’s Square on March 16th. Full event details, including ticket information, can be found at www.thejamhouse.com