What seemed like a never-ending line last night stretched from the Prospect Park Bandshell entrance to around the corner and down Prospect Park SW. Thousands of people waited hours for Chaka Khan as she kicked off “Celebrate Brooklyn!” Performing Arts Festival on June 3.
“The Queen of Funk” stepped on stage in all-black attire with big hair and an even bigger voice. She performed top hits including “I’m Every Woman,” “Tell Me Something Good,” and “Ain’t Nobody,” among other chart toppers.
A group of teenagers collectively said the hours of waiting in line were worth it.
“We would do it all over again,” a young man said. “Her music is classic and the concert is free, we couldn’t pass up this opportunity.”
People of all ages came out to the event with many being seated inside the concert area to others laying on blankets eating pizzas, chips and dip outside, watching from the LED screens.
“I’ve been listening to Chaka my whole life,” a mother of two said. “I was raised around her music and it was a fun experience for the kids too.”
Being the inaugural performer for “Celebrate Brooklyn! “the Grammy Award-winning international icon didn’t miss a beat.
‘Celebrate Brooklyn’ Performing Arts Festival is in its 37th season of the concert series. They are showcasing 24 free concert events throughout the summer. More information can be found at www.bricartsmedia.org.
Khan came onto the music scene young and full of life in 1973 with her group Rufus. She not only made her mark but set a tone for many artists after her to follow. For over 40 years, she has lit up the stage in funky fashion for audiences around the globe to see.