Brenton Wood with Midnight Star, War, and more

Formed in 1976 at Kentucky State University, MIDNIGHT STAR rose to fame with technofunk hits like "Freak-A-Zoid" and "No Parking on the Dance Floor." Their albums earned multiple Platinum and Gold certifications, with chart-toppers like "Operator," "Midas Touch," and collaborations like "Don’t Rock the Boat" with Whodini. Performing worldwide, they remain an iconic band in funk and R&B.

War, a funk group from Southern California, blended soul, Latin, jazz, blues, reggae, and rock into hits like "Low Rider" and "Why Can't We Be Friends." They collaborated with Eric Burdon and are known for albums like "The World Is a Ghetto." Their multicultural vibe and improvisational style earned them a lasting place in funk history. Despite lineup changes, War remains a concert staple, celebrated for their classic era from 1969–1975.

Born in Philadelphia, Evelyn "Champagne" King is a pop-R&B singer known for 'Shame,' 'I'm in Love,' and 'Love Come Down.' Her debut album "Smooth Talk" went gold. Collaborating with T. Life, Kashif, and Morrie Brown, she topped R&B charts in the '80s, blending synths and drum machines with her vibrant voice. Throughout her career, she produced nine charting albums and continued performing into the 2020s. Her lasting appeal includes chart presence over three decades and hits like 'The Dance.'

The Delfonics, from Philly, pioneered the "Philadelphia sound" with Thom Bell. Known for "La La Means I Love You" and "Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time)," they impacted hip-hop and film, notably featured in Tarantino's *Jackie Brown*. Collaborated with Ghostface Killah and recorded with Adrian Younge.