Big names to headline Soul Fest 2017 at Columbus Civic Center

The Columbus Civic Center’s annual Soul Fest concert boasts some big names in soul this year.

The headlining artists vary in age, but their impact on their genre of music is indisputable.

The July 1 concert will feature headliners Lenny Williams, Sir Charles, Pokey Bear, Wilson Meadows and Tucka King of Swing. There are several other unnamed artists that will perform as well. The Civic Center’s website has 12 artists pictured on the event’s promotional material.

Headliner Lenny Williams has been performing for decades. The Oakland native garnered fame in 1972 when he signed with the band Tower of Power. After performing with them for several years, Williams began his solo career and never looked back. His most famous hit is “Cause I Love You” from his album entitled “Spark of Love.”

Throughout his almost 50-year career Williams has shared stages with stars such as Aretha Franklin, Alicia Keys, K-Jon, Anthony Hamilton, The Whispers, Rick James, Al Green and Usher.

When asked about the longevity of his career, Williams was clear.

“I’m going to continue to evolve and grow as I learn and experiment lyrically and musically,” he said on his website. “I’ve been doing this for a long time now and I’ve been watching all of the changes going on in the music business. Let me do my thing.”

Sir Charles Jones’ most popular hits include “Is There Anybody Lonely?” and “Friday.” He was the recipient of the B.B. King Achievement Award in 2003 and 2004, and received the American Blues Network’s Album of the Year Award in 2002 and 2003.

Soul star Wilson Meadows is no stranger to the stage. After getting his start in the ’60s singing doo-wop with the Zircons, he formed a group with this brothers. The Meadows Brothers cut several records with prominent labels such as Winston, Federal and Capitol. Popular songs are “I Can’t Understand,” “Go On and Cry, Cry” and “Get On Down Like Soul Folks Do.”

Pokey Bear is a native of Baton Rouge, La. He got his start with the trio The Louisiana Blue Brothas, performing with Tyree Neal and Adrian Bagher. His first solo record, “Josephine Son Pokey,” was released in 2014 and features the hit songs “They Call Me Pokey” and “The Gingerbread Man.” His most recent album entitled “Mr. It Ain’t Fair” debuted in 2016 and was made popular by the hit “Good Foot” and “Shake That Money Maker” with Mystikal.

Tucka King of Swing is famous for his songs “Candyland” and “Don’t Make Me Beg.” A native of Loreauville, La., his music is influenced by Barry White and R. Kelly. Popular albums include “Love Rehab” and “Long Live the King.”

Soul Fest starts at 8 p.m. July 1, but guests should plan to arrive early to avoid traffic. Tickets may be purchased through the Civic Center’s website. Parking is an additional $5 the night of the concert.

This story was originally published June 24, 2017 at 10:00 PM with the headline "Big names to headline Soul Fest 2017 at Columbus Civic Center."