Monday, January 24, 2000

WILMINGTON, NC- The legendary a capella rock and roll, rhythm and blues group, The Persuasions, will perform on the campus of UNC Wilmington as a part of Black History Month Celebration at 8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 3, in Kenan Auditorium.

The musical group performs a capella, Italian for "in a chapel style," or without instrumental accompaniment. The Persuasions have been refining this age-old style for 34 years. According to Bullseye Blues Records, "The liner notes to their latest album end with the declaration, 'This album contains no instruments other than the human voice.' Or to put it another way: they still ain't got no band!"

The Persuasions were formed in Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1962, and continue to perform and record with the same personnel, except for the passing of co-founder Herbert (Tubo) Rhodes in 1988 causing them to become a quartet. The musical group consists of Jerry Lawson on lead and baritone; Jayotis Washington, first tenor; Joe Russell, second tenor; and Jimmy Hayes, bass. They are known for performing captivating versions of R&B, soul, gospel, and classic rock and roll songs.

The musical group has recorded more than 10 albums, and they have sung the works of Sam Cooke, Frank Zappa, Nat King Cole, and the Stylistics. They influenced artists such as Bobby McFerrin, Boyz II Men, and Take 6, and they have provided back-up vocals for Bette Midler, Paul Simon, and Stevie Wonder. The Persuasions prove that the most precious instrument of all, the human voice, is all that is needed to provide diverse and extraordinary music and songs.

This concert is sponsored by the UNCW Office of Minority Affairs. Tickets are free to UNCW students, faculty, and staff w/ID. General Admission is $10 and can be reserved or purchased the day of the concert at the Kenan Auditorium Box Office.

For more information contact Office of Minority Affairs at 910-962-3832. For ticket reservations contact Kenan Auditorium Box Office at 910-962-3500 or Toll Free at 800-732-3643.