by Kevin Amos

The Stanley Theatre (now called The Benedum) was the last venue Bob Marley and The Wailers performed publicly on Sept. 23, 1980 before his passing. Exactly 30 years after that magical evening, the Marley family came together for a powerful live tribute concert benefiting their 1 Love Foundation and honoring the patriarch in a concert entitled “1 Love presents “Live Forever, a Bob Marley Celebration” concert.

MARLEY BROTHERS—Julian, Stephen and Damian Marley. (Photos by Gail Manker).

Stephen Marley, Damian Marley, Julian Marley, Cedella Marley and The Marley girls performed the set list from the 1980 show to a soldout crowd of all ages. Rita Marley traveled from her home in Ghana to be part of this special event along with former I-Three member, Marcia Griffiths. The enthusiastic audience consisted of young reggae fans who weren’t alive during the heyday of Bob Marley and the Wailers, but have since embraced the music of the group and the Marley children.

Jazz at Andys

Fairmont Pittsburgh presents Jazz at Andys from 6-10 p.m. at 510 Market St., Downtown. Every Wednesday through Saturday, guests will be treated to live jazz performances by some of the city’s finest musicians. The featured artist will be Jessie Glovier. There is no cover charge. For more information, call 412-773-8884 or visit www.andyswinebar.com.

This week I visited the August Wilson Center for African American Culture in Downtown Pittsburgh, The Kelly Strayhorn Theater in East Liberty, Club Mosaic in the Strip District, Melange Bristol Bar and Lounge in Downtown Pittsburgh and CJ’s in the Strip District.

My first stop was at CJ’s in the Strip District where DJ Mike “The Punisher” was on the 1’s and 2’s playing all the hits for the crowd.

Dancers performing an African dance at the 5th Annual Keepers of the Flame Awards Introducing Dance Africa 2010 held at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater.

by Ashley G. Woodson
For New Pittsburgh Courier

Legendary R&B singer Chris Williams, born Troy Christopher Williams, came on the scene in the late ’80s with major hits. He released his Chris Williams debut in 1987. Four years later, he acted in “New Jack City.” His single from the soundtrack, “Dreamin,’” turned gold and reached number one. His 1993 album “Changes” featured the hits “Every Little Thing” and “Come Go With Me.” “Not a Perfect Man” brought a new direction for Williams. His first album as sole executive producer uses elements of reggae, R&B, hip-hop and country. Williams’ next album will drop soon, and includes tracks with Anthony Ham­ilton and Damian Marley.

CHRIS WILLIAMS