Harlem Week to Pay Tribute to Master Composer & legendary Producer/Activist James Mtume
Whether his contribution to music comes as composer, producer or performer; James Mtume has carved an indelible impression from all sides. Yet for all the decades he has been putting out innovative sounds, he has underscored it with his activism.
A brilliant and informed orator, Mtume has spoken internationally as well as being a major political commentator voice and activist via the airwaves, such as his popular New York talk show, Open Line, formerly on WBLS FM.
His is a rich and storied past as an activist during the turbulent 60’s era movements, his years performing with Miles Davis, on into his his chart-topping R&B years as a band – Mtume. In that span he has also composed hits with guitarist/partner Reggie Lucas such as “The Closer I Get to You,” (Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway) leaving an imprint in music that is distinct.
With Kiss This World GoodbyeKiss This World Goodbye (1978), In Search of the Rainbow Seekers (1980), Juicy Fruit (1983), You, Me and He (1984), and Theater of the Mind (1986), the group earned 11 charting singles: “Give It on Up (If You Want To)” (number 26 R&B), “Juicy Fruit” (number one R&B), “You, Me and He” (number two R&B), and “Breathless” (number nine R&B).
Mtume created a unique sound with his “sophisti-funk,” and turned an era on end with hits for the likes of Phyllis Hyman, Stephanie Mills (He and Lucas both won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Song for writing and producing fellow R&B artist Stephanie Mills’ top-ten hit “Never Knew Love Like This Before”, for which she also won a Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance), the Spinners, and Lou Rawls.
His much-sampled beats and rhythms, as in the Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy” and dozens of other songs have made Mtume’s music a staple of R&B and Hip Hop; including his having produced yet another generation including neo-R&B acts like Mary J. Blige.
In honor of his many activist/music contributions for all aspects of enlightening and entertaining the masses, Harlem Week will be paying tribute to the living legend. The event will take place on August 23, 2017 at Harlem Hospital at 6:00 PM.
Enjoy a riveting example of Mtume’s continued presence as world-spokesman and musical leader.
About Harlem Week:
HARLEM WEEK promotes and celebrates the past, present, and future of Harlem! HARLEM WEEK is a series of Harlem events throughout the summer, that bring together all age groups and cultures to celebrate the unique and diverse essence of Harlem. This Harlem Festival & Celebration offers over 100 events throughout the months of July and August, attracting over 3 million attendees from all around the world to Harlem New York. Featuring: Outdoor and indoor music concerts, The Upper Manhattan Auto Show, Film festivals, Health Fair & 5K, Sporting events, Adult and children’s fashion shows, Youth programs and activities, Career fairs, HBCU Fair & Expo.
