In the ever-shifting landscape of the music industry, where trends wax and wane, there are few acts that stand as a testament to enduring talent. Shalamar, the venerable soul group, epitomizes this rare breed, inviting audiences to relish their timeless charm and musical prowess on the ‘Greatest Hits Tour.’
As the curtain lifts on this extraordinary musical voyage, fans can anticipate a mesmerizing showcase of Shalamar’s signature hits, seamlessly blending contagious rhythms with the soulful melodies of Howard Hewett, widely regarded as one of the preeminent vocalists of all time. Boasting an impressive track record with 18 top seventy-five UK hits, 11 top forty, and 4 top-ten chart-toppers, along with an astonishing 25 million records sold, Shalamar firmly establishes itself as one of the most triumphant soul acts in history.
The ‘Greatest Hits Tour’ pledges an immersive experience, a musical banquet featuring an uninterrupted flow of “banging tunes” and the velvety ballads that have defined the group’s illustrious trajectory. Exploring Shalamar’s discography is tantamount to traversing the soul music timeline—a journey through the ages.
Prominent in the setlist are perennial classics like ‘A Night To Remember,’ ‘Take That to The Bank,’ ‘Second Time Around,’ ‘Make That Move,’ ‘Dead Giveaway,’ ‘Disappearing Act,’ ‘Dancin’ In The Sheets,’ ‘Over and Over,’ and ‘Friends,’ among a plethora of others. Each note and beat reverberates with nostalgia, transporting the audience through decades of musical evolution.
Shalamar’s influence extends beyond their chart-topping hits; they are synonymous with a dance craze that ignited the UK and Europe. Jeffrey Daniel, a pivotal member, imported the body-popping phenomenon from Los Angeles and showcased the inaugural moonwalk on European TV. This groundbreaking performance not only captivated audiences but also left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric, shaping the musical landscape for generations. Notably, Daniel’s impact reached the legendary Michael Jackson, whom he mentored.
Preserving the core of their classic 1982 lineup, Howard Hewett and Jeffrey Daniel perpetuate distinctive performances that withstand the test of time. Infusing a familial touch into the ensemble, the daughter of Solar Records Founder Dick Griffey has held the mantle of the female lead vocalist since 2001, earning her the distinction of being the longest-serving female member.
In acknowledgment of their enduring contributions to music, Shalamar received the esteemed honor of a stone on the revered Camden Music Walk of Fame in 2023. The accolades continued to pour in as they were crowned Soul Act of the Year at the Boisdale Awards, underscoring their perpetual relevance and influence.
With the backing of a robust 7-piece band, Shalamar’s live performances transcend mere concerts; they are a spectacle. Their ability to command the stage, coupled with the infectious energy emanating from their music, positions them as perennial crowd-pleasers and coveted headliners at diverse Summer Festivals.
As the ‘Greatest Hits Tour’ unfurls its musical tapestry, Shalamar extends an invitation to fans to embark on a journey that transcends temporal boundaries. It’s more than a concert; it’s an immersive encounter—a night etched in memory, where concerns dissipate, and the enchantment of soul music takes center stage. Shalamar, with their enduring charisma and timeless tunes, consistently demonstrates that some things only grow richer with the passage of time.
