Photos and post by Leo Wilson
Last Tuesday was definitely one of those history in the making kinda days at the Official Marvin Gaye Day Celebration, held at Restaurant Marvin in DC. Mr. Sheldon Scott, manager of the venue and semi-event host greeted guests.
Stepping out onto the back patio, a nice sized crowd of Washingtonian socialites, mingling and networking in cheerful exchange. The ambiance of the atmosphere seemed to be that of camaraderie and eager anticipation. It was evident that the patrons held high hopes for the upcoming performances. While making my way through the crowd, I was greeted by many of the familiar faces of the local music scene, all welcoming me with warm embraces and peaceful salutations but I also found myself also being greeted by some unfamiliar faces. The vibe proved itself to be all love. Shortly after my arrival, the first of the performances began
The artist, Barsheem, grasping the attention of the audience immediately with strong captivating notes accompanied by a power house performance; offering us a sample of his style, arguably reminiscent of Marvin Gaye, himself. Barsheem’s performance provoked one audience member to walk up in the middle of his rendition to hand him a wad of cash, which he gracefully and humbly pocketed without missing a beat. Next, after Barsheem, Marvin Gaye’s Music Director, Gordon Banks, called upon an ensemble of local DC talent to put on a mesmerizing jam session. Included in the jam session were the seasoned talents of Kenny Wesley, Troy Sol Edler, Ne’a Posey, Tamara Wellons, Alison Carney, Bam Bam on Bass, Smiles on Keys, and and Mr Banks himself.
Each musician, took full advantage of the opportunity to showcase their talents while commemorating an assortment of Marvin Gaye’s selections with excellence. The audience showed it’s gratitude by remaining fully captivated. Once the jam session concluded, the crowd seemed more than prepared to enjoy the stellar combined performance provided by Ms. Maimouna Youssef and Mr. Martin Luther. Unfortunately, I don’t think any of us was truly prepared for such a jaw dropping show. The soulful sounds of the two balladeers personally kept my ears racing and the visuals of the performance were more than enough to maintain the attention of any and all onlookers.
Honestly, these two artists had absolutely no problem wowing the crowd with their style, flair, and precise musical execution. I definitely left at the end of the night, having a greater appreciation for our local homegrown talent. One other artist that graced the stage with the talents of the harmonica was Mr. Fred Yonnet Not only did Mr. Yonnet deliver non stop energy to accompany Maimouna and Martin Luther, but he also sprinkled his elements of his specialized gift throughout the remainder of the show.
While Maimouna and Martin Luther performed their last song for the evening I took a moment to look over at the area where the attending family members of the late great Mr. Marvin Gaye were sitting, only to witness a very personal and loving embrace between them. At that very moment, I truly felt that the evening had reached its high point. Love and remembrance was abound throughout the entire venue.
The final performance of the evening came from The Marquees, Marvin’s original band. They not only entertain us but also educated us of his humble beginnings while taking the entire audience with them on a personal tour through time, showing us the meaning of true soul. The Marquees left us not only endeared further to Marvin’s musical legacy, but also endeared to them.
To view more pictures from the event click HERE
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