Kool and the Gang

Dates: 26 Jul 2024 - 26 Jul 2024

Location: M&S Bank Arena - Monarch Quay - Liverpool

They were responsible for some of the biggest hits in the 70’s and 80’s, however Kool and the Gang’s formation began in 1964 in Jersey City, New Jersey when seven school friends decided to perform together as an instrumental jazz and soul group called the Jazziacs.

Robert ‘Kool’ Bell was the bass player and he gave himself the nickname ‘Kool’ as a way of adapting to the street gangs in his neighbourhood after moving to Ohio.

In 1967, they decided to perform as their own identity and became regulars at the Blue Note Lounge in Jersey; one of the MC's advertised them with a new name, Kool & the Flames. However, their manager Gene Redd advised against it to avoid confusion with James Brown's band, The Famous Flames. They settled on Kool & the Gang, in 1969.

Ever since they have entertained audiences with their unique sound of jazz, rhythm and blues, soul, funk, disco, rock and pop music.

Their biggest hit to date is the classic number ‘Celebration’ taken from their 12th studio album of the same name. It reached number one on the US R&B chart and Number 10 on the Billboard 200. Let’s remind ourselves of that fantastic track –

A real ‘celebration’ is about to take place. 60 years since they formed, Kool and the Gang are performing all the hits at the M&S Bank Arena, Monarch Quay, Liverpool on Friday evening – July 26th 2024 from 6.30pm. Tickets are available to book from the following website link –

https://www.visitliverpool.com/event/kool-and-the-gang/60945101/

Be sure to watch this formidable band very soon.

^Alex Ashworth CCG Art Blogger