Legendary American R&B group The Manhattans featuring Gerald Alston will be sidestepping onto an East London stage for the first time at the end of September with their Heart & Soul Experience.
The Grammy award-winning artists, who last performed in SA in 2019, will be in Buffalo City for one night only, treating local fans to their smooth and soulful sounds.
Two of The Manhattan’s leading original members, Gerald Alston and Troy May, will be performing along with André de Bourg, Charles Butler, Curtis Dukes, Colt Younger, Jason Simons, Jeffrey Scott, Lawrence Newton and Mark Bowers.
“We have previously performed in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town but we have never performed in East London.
“We have also received messages over the years urging us to come and perform there, and there is no better time than now,” said leading Manhattans member Alston.
Alston said their South African fans were incredibly friendly and the group was excited to perform in Buffalo City.
“When we performed in SA, the crowds loved our songs, especially Shining Star, Kiss and Say Goodbye, Hurt, Do You Really Mean Goodbye and I Kinda Miss You.
“When we performed here we noticed our fans singing along. We expect the same in East London.”
Audiences will be able to enjoy an array of tracks from the Manhattans’ 60-year career and gold-certified R&B sounds.
“Expect a good time, good music and a lot of fun.
“We will be singing all the favourite songs that The Manhattans are known for,” Alston said.
Sharing the stage will be Malizole “MaliSoul” Fololo, along with MC Nokubonga “Blaq” Maci of Umhlobo Wenene FM.
Organiser Simpiwe Myataza, of ISim Biz Events Company, said the concert would help promote the Eastern Cape as a tourist destination.
“We are so excited. We are expecting music lovers from other countries like Namibia and Lesotho as well as visitors from other provinces like the Free State, Northern Cape and Western Cape.
“We are so lucky to have the group coming to share their talent with us.”
Myataza said he grew up listening to The Manhattans and was eager to see them perform.
“I grew up on their music, I’ve got quite a collection. My late father had all their music.
“The vibe is semi-formal, we expect a night of intimate and relaxed enjoyment.
“The venue doesn’t allow alcohol but there will be snacks for sale.
“East London is very central, it’s the home of the legends and The Manhattan are legends in the music industry.
“In 2019, if you wanted to see them you would have to go to Joburg. But now if you’re from Mthatha or Qonce, it’s only a few hour’s drive.”
Catch The Heart & Soul Experience on September 30 at the Abbotsford Christian Centre, starting at 6pm.
Tickets are R550 and available from TicketPro.
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