Brooklyn’s annual tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. prevails in 2014 with five concerts that exemplify the diversity and make-up of the borough. Rhythm and blues, pop, hip-hop, gospel and Caribbean music are slated each Monday in the month when free concerts kick-off at 7:30 p.m. Presented at Wingate Field, Winthrop Street between Brooklyn and Kingston avenues. Across from Kings’County Hospital, entrances at Winthrop St. and Rutland Rd. will accommodate patrons from 6:00 p.m.
Hosted by Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, the free concerts became a staple three decades ago when State Senator Marty Markowitz took office in Albany. The legislator amped up the music when he became borough president by booking A-list acts that included The Jacksons, Run DMC, New Edition, Tony Braxton, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and consistently each year — The Mighty Sparrow.
The king of calypso is absent from the line-up this year but Jamaica’s roots, reggae singer Gyptian and pop-reggae performer Maxi Priest are billed for Aug. 11.
Gyptian is best known for his hits – “Hold Yuh,” “Nah Let Go,” “Wine Slow,” “Serious Times,” “Mama,” “Beautiful Lady,” “I Can Feel Your Pain,” “Love Against The Wall” and “She’s My Lady.”
Priest’s discography include “Close To You,” “Wild World,” “That Girl,” and “Housecall.”
Already classic soul talent Anthony Hamilton and Patti LaBelle headlined the opening dates.
Here is a complete listing of performers:
Aug. 4– Old School Night:
Roxanne Shante
Biz Markie
Rob Base
Kool Moe Dee
Aug. 11– Reggae Night:
Gyptian and Maxi Priest
Aug. 18 — Gospel Night:
Tamela Mann
Christian Cultural Center Choir
Photo by Jeff Daly/Invision/AP,File
