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Born into a family of musicians, it’s only natural that Rodgers inherent love for music began to develop. At age 15 he picked up the guitar and in no time at all he started backing R&B icons such as Aretha Franklin, Ben E King and Screamin’ Jay Hawkins at the famous Harlem Apollo Theatre, US.
Fast forward to 1976, the prime era of disco and the year that Rodgers alongside Bernard Edwards founded one of the most instrumental disco groups of all time, Chic. Providing hits such as “Everybody Dance”, “Good Times” and of course the iconic classic “Le Freak”, becoming the biggest selling single in Atlantic Records history. In 2014, in conjunction with o2 and Go Think Big, Rodgers reworked the popular track inviting aspiring young music enthusiasts in the UK to get involved with the project providing amazing work experience opportunities. The following year “Le Freak” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Rodgers’ signature Stratocaster alone is worth an estimated £1.3 billion which he used on a number of smash hits for an array of music legends including: Sister Sledge, Debbie Harry, Mick Jagger, Madonna and Michael Jackson- just a few of the artists who feature in his production credits clocking in at over 200 tracks and albums.
With three Grammy Awards under his belt, over 200 million albums sold and his credentials extending over all aspects of the entertainment industry, it’s no wonder Rodgers in held in such revere as he continues to impact the music world collaborating with old school legends as well as contemporary artists such as: Daft Punk, Sam Smith, Pharrell Williams and Avicii. Rodgers’ influence is unstoppable and with an everlasting legacy it will continue impact generations to come.
A Nile Rodgers live set is an exercise in the legendary guitarist attempting to prove to you that he wrote at least two thirds of your favourite songs ever, even if you weren’t fully aware of the fact yet. From the acknowledged classics of his most famed vehicle Chic through to masterpieces by David Bowie, Diana Ross, Sister Sledge and even Daft Punk, there’s simply no faulting a Rodgers setlist. Yet this isn’t an exercise in watching someone past their peak go over old glories either – forever backed by a band every inch his musical (if not songwriting) equals, the musicianship on display is nothing short of impeccable, the band being tighter than could ever be medically recommended. Yet it’s likely you’ll struggle to focus on any such technicalities, what with all the dancing you’ll be doing (a fair proportion of Rodgers’ hits contain the word ‘Dance’ in the title, and dance you most certainly shall). Currently in the middle of one of the most warmly received career rebirths of recent years, these are shows are a master class in disco, pop and funk to tell the grandkids you’ve seen. Given the timeless nature of the material, chances are they’ll grow up to be huge fans too.
Went to see Nile Rodgers and Chic at Iveagh Gardens on 9th July 2015, and was once again blown away by the performance by one of the greatest live acts in the world. Nile treats his concerts as s very personal thing and acknowledges the effort of concert goers and shares his love with us all.
A polished performance from only the best musicians and top quality vocalists. Even they, Kimberly and Folami, give it so much, that it's difficult to imagine that they're doing this day in, day out. Their honey coated vocals accompanied by their beaming smiles, makes everyone feel this concert is especially for them.
Nile is a legend, and doesn't spare himself. Everybody was dance dance dancing, everybody was there, no sign of stage fright and truly deserving of a sell out. Even though he could sell out arenas, I'd encourage anyone to get to see Nile Rodgers and Chic at one of these smaller 3 to 5000 capacity venues to experience the intimate nature of the gig and get to feel connected with someone who lived the 70's New York life, and all that goes with it.
Karl D and Tiny Universe were great as usual. The Belly Up was rocking for this hometown show. It was business as usual with a few Allman Bros. nuggets tossed in (Dreams, Ain’t Wating Time No More). Not to be missed. Organ Freeman opened and this 3-piece Los Angeles band brought the hammer. Definitely will be checking them out next time they are in town.