Erykah Badu performs during the Summer Spirit Festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion on Saturday, August 4, 2012 in Columbia, MD.
In its seventh year, the Summer Spirit Festival has become a go to event for fans of hip hop, r&b, and soul. In addition, the festival has always been an event that many who have never had the chance to see Chuck Brown live, could do so. With the passing of Chuck Brown this past spring, his presence would be missed, but not forgotten during this years event.
The line-up for the Summer Spirit Festival, hosted by comedian Red Grant, included comedians Chris Paul and Huggy Lowdown. Following the two comics sets, Eric Roberson, Estelle, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Common, & Erykah Badu to the stage. Erykah Badu was the headliner for the night.
In between Estelle’s set and Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings set, the crowd was given a special treat. A tribute to Chuck Brown by his band, Big Tony of Trouble Funk, Sugar Bear of E.U., and White Boy & Jas of Rare Essence. This tribute turned the Merriweather Post Pavilion in to one big go-go with everyone from the front row to the lawn on their feet dancing.
More Performance Highlights:
Eric Roberson creating a new song with the help of various words from the audience. The crowd enjoyed the creativity and comedic elements of the song.
Estelle was very engaging. A few people I talked with following her performance said that they were won over by her performance. During a few of her more popular songs, the crowds signing over powered her singing.
Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings brought the house down. Sharon Jones is an old school performer. She knows how to put on a show along with the Dap Kings. There were various times in which she had the crowd on their feet. The group received a standing ovation at the end of their set.
Huggy Lowdown, breaking out the dance moves and singing background during the Chuck Brown tribute, was very entertaining.
Chuck Brown performing with his band and daughter via a video. Very well done.
Common is always creative with his way of paying homage to various artist in hip hop throughout his set. It was fun to hear Common make other songs his own.
Erykah Badu, like Common, is always creative with how she mixes up her set. For those of you keeping track, Ms. Badu was sporting a new and unique hairstyle.
It was hot and humid throughout the day, but that did not stop the huge crowd from having a good time from start to finish.
Enough said. Enjoy the photos!
More Photos:
The Summer Spirit Festival 2012 – Images by Anthony Washington
