U.S oldies legends promise a blissful night

Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Thursday March 14, 2019 18:12

Addressing the media at Grandpalm Hotel in Gaborone today, Troy May of The Manhattans revealed that it was their first time in Botswana.

Even though they have been to South Africa on many occasions, May explained that he was excited about being in Botswana saying they have always wanted to be here.

“It’s our first time here. We love it. People have been warm hearted to us. Bring everyone you know,” he said.

He said they would perform their new single, Get it Ready that was released early this year. May said they still have the energy they had back in the day. It’s all about the passion of what they do, he added.

For his part, E-Love of The Temptations said he was surprised and excited that people in Botswana appreciate and listen to their music. He said even the radio stations here play classic music more than their radio stations back in the U.S.

E-Love revealed that they would be performing for an hour and will open up the show for The Manhattans. He added that they would be giving their fans high pack, The Spinners, OJs and old school type of music.

“Performing together with The Manhattans is a blessing. We heard that My Girl is a national anthem. We would be performing it together with other songs such as Cloud 9.”

He said due to change in music industry, they are trying to produce songs that would be in line with the present time. However, he pointed out that they would still maintain their old school magic to the songs so that they do not lose their touch. 

Temptations have brought four members while The Manhattans came with five group members. All the artistes would be performing live. 

Both groups say they were looking forward to seeing people in the ghetto, as some cannot afford to pay the tickets. They said they would like to shake hands, take pictures and perform for ordinary citizens. 

The Temptations have been one of the most successful and continuous Motown singing groups for 50 years. Their musical repertoire ranged from Doo-Wop, Disco, Funk, Soul, and up-tempo R&B. They established a legacy for other acts to follow. 

The Manhattans were one of those classic R&B vocal groups who managed to achieve incredible career longevity by adapting their style to fit changing times. 

Formed in the 60s as a doo wop-influenced R&B quintet, the Manhattans reinvented themselves as sweet smooth soul balladeers during the 70s. 

Tshepi Live and MoTown host the event. It will also host Joe Nina and Cheek to Cheek. The local jazz maestro Lister Boleseng’s daughter, Refilwe Boleseng will also perform at the event.

Tickets are sold at all Spar outlets countrywide through web-ticket. Their price list is as follows; P350 standard, P1,000 VIP comes with finger foods better viewing and meeting artists and P2,500 VVIP comes with food and drinks on our tab mingling closely with the artistes.