Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires l Baltimore Soundstage

May 11th, 2014

The first time I saw Charles Bradley in concert I finally understood the hysteria of seeing The Beatles work their moptop magic back in the 60's. To be utterly captivated by a performer because they are giving you every single thing inside them, fueled by a passion for the music, a generosity, and in Charles's case, a fever. Fitting that I should be seeing him for the second time with my Mom, on Mother's Day. She screamed her head off for John, Paul, George, and Ringo back in her day. And tonight, she meets the Screaming Eagle of Soul. 

Charles Bradley's story is the stuff dreams are made of. His life has been filled with "trials and tribulations," he's waited more than 50 years for the opportunity to share his voice, and yet his heart is filled with nothing but love. His love, which flows as freely as the fringe on his sequined vests. This man is hear to give us his heart and sing truth from the depths of his soul. At 66, he gives most any performer I've ever seen a run for their money. Look out, those moves will getcha.

Accompanied by his, one and only, Extraordinaires! These boys blow some horn and look damn sharp while bringing it on home! And did I mention, choreography?!

A couple years back, late one night in Ottawa, our dear friends put a Charles Bradley album on the record player. And my life was better for knowing him. Go see Charles in concert and check out his documentary, Soul of America. 

Charles, "I got the love, strictly reserved for you."

Story by: Kolleen Kintz

Photos by: Bobby Kintz