An energetic celebration of American music history took center stage at the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts this week. As a touring vocal and dance group, “Uptown” brought the sounds of Motown, soul, and classic R&B to a packed Bicknell Performing Arts Center, blending humor, history lessons, and a powerhouse of harmonies into one unforgettable evening.
From the moment the show opened with a tribute to Earth, Wind, and Fire’s “September” and continued with trivia about a 1966 billboard chart topper, the performers Ali and brothers Joel, and Jonathan made it clear this would be more than just a concert. It would be an interactive journey through decades of influential music stretching from uptown New York to Detroit City and the south.
“Some of the most influential music of all time was first performed uptown,” Ali told the audience, referring to the birthplace of jazz, gospel, and soul traditions that shaped generations of artists. A major focal point of the night was the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem. Uptown described it for its famously demanding audience, who were not shy to not only cheer for great performers but also boo for those who failed to impress.
The storytelling quickly shifted to Detroit and the rise of the unstable Motown sound. Paying tribute to Motown Records’ legacy, the performers explained how artists blended gospel roots with deeper rules and stronger baselines to create what would become rhythm and blues as modern audiences know it today. As the crowd roared and recognition went uptown, they launched into hits from the Temptations, including the timeless classic “My Girl.” Audience members were encouraged to sing along to the charming melodies.
The concert also highlighted other vocal groups whose tight harmonies and short choreography defined the era, and Uptown member Joel teased that younger audience members might not recognize some of the names, prompting laughter and good-natured groans. But the evening was not limited to Motown alone.
The group shifted to honor Bill Withers, the West Virginia native known for blending country, bluegrass, and gospel influences and two soul-infused storytelling songs. The performers shared that Withers’ upbringing, his playing acoustic guitar, and his attendance at church shaped his distinctive sound. They performed a heartfelt, self-composed acoustic medley featuring “Lean on Me,” “Lovely Day,” and other Bill Withers songs, inviting the audience to sway and sing along.
“That’s what music is about,” Joel said. “Bringing people together.”
The tribute pays homage to Stevie Wonder, who famously began his career at Motown at just 11 years old. Uptown praised his decades-long influence before delivering a passionate performance celebrating his contributions of love songs and socially conscious anthems alike. Later in the show, the ensemble honored Marvin Gaye with a moving rendition of “What’s Going On.”
Between songs, the performers shared the stories of their travels across the country from New York, to California, to Missouri, and to Kansas, emphasizing that no matter where they go, the audience always connects through music.
“People from all different walks of life aren’t enjoying something together,” Jonathan said. “Music is universal.”
The evening concluded with a standing applause as the group thanked the performing arts center staff, musicians, and crew. They also took a moment to recognize couples on the eve of Valentine’s Day, for celebrating those married for 30 years, 40 years, and even 50 years, a tribute to tonight’s devoted songs about love, joy, and perseverance.