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Respect to Aretha

,Barbican Hall
Colourful illustrations of Aretha Franklin and the performers

New York Afrobeat ensemble Antibalas are joined by Bettye LaVette, José James, Zara McFarlane, Alice Russell and Nona Hendryx, to honour the legacy of the Queen of Soul.

From timeless favourites to deep cuts from her back catalogue, Aretha’s greatness as the defining name in soul music, is truly showcased in an evening of celebration, reflection and high energy.

Modelled on Fela Kuti’s Africa 70 and the Harlem River Drive Orchestra, Antibalas are an afrobeat collective currently in their third decade. They are joined by American soul icon Bettye LaVette who grew up listening to Aretha and later performed with her; José James, who has been called 'the jazz singer for the hip-hop generation', Labelle signer Nona Hendyx and two of the voices bringing soul into the modern landscape, British singer Alice Russell, who is known for her collaborations with David Byrne and Fatboy Slim amongst others, and Zara McFarlane, now one of the most successful singers in contemporary British jazz.

Tagged with: Contemporary music

Start time: 8pm

Approx running time: 90 minutes, no interval

All times are subject to change

Produced by the Barbican in association with Philharmonie de Paris

Programme

Discover

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