LOS ANGELES (www.qfxent.com) - Can't get enough of old school? There's more in store on November 6, 2004 when GQ comes to the
National Orange Show Events Center, 680 S. 'E' Street in San Bernardino. 'Back to Old School,' featuring GQ and Friends—J-Love and the J-Love Band, 7th Avenue & J-Smooth is a celebration of R&B and soul classics.
Known for such hits at 'Disco Nights/Rock Freak,' and the Billy Stewart classic, 'Sitting in the Park,' GQ records were a staple at parties in the late 70's and 80's. The group has several national top 40 R&B hits to their credit. Their fresh musical arrangement and the unique vocal style of lead singer Emanuel Rahiem LeBlanc gave the group a distinct sound which soon gained the attention of the music industry.
In 1979, GQ won an American Music Award for best disco sound of the year, tying with Rod Stewart's 'Do You Think I'm Sexy.' Twenty years later, the group recorded a tribute to Soul and R&B greats Marvin Gaye and Billy Stewart. The masterpiece features such classics as Gaye's 'Let's Get It On' and 'Distant Lover,' and (Billy) Stewart's 'I Do Love You' and 'Summertime.' LeBlanc wrote four original songs for the album, and currently owns his own Nu Classic Records label.
Added to the old school mix are up-and-coming music sensation J-Love, the soulful and funky rhythms of 7th Avenue, and bass player J-Smooth. J-Love's exceptional octave range has been compared to the falsetto of Phillip Bailey and the baritone Barry White—must be heard to be believed! Known from Compton to the Inland Empire, 7th Avenue puts on a show-stopping performance of jazz, funk and soul favorites. As his nickname implies, J-Smooth is an architect of the slow and soulful rhythms that old-schoolers are sure to enjoy.
"Back to Old School' is presented by QFX Entertainment, Inc., an event management corporation that promotes quality music entertainment for the mature listener. Last month, a concert was held at the Orange Show featuring Jazz Junkies and J-Smooth, playing genres from jazz, old school and R&B with a touch of Latin sounds. A portion of the proceeds were presented to the County of San Bernardino's Sheriffs and Fire Departments and the San Bernardino Police Department.
Giving back to the community is something QFX President, Sam Quinn III holds in high esteem. 'Our goal is to provide premier entertainment worth your time, effort and money in a relaxed environment. At the same time, we like to honor those men and women who so gallantly give of their time and effort to make their communities better.'
Spring 2005 will see a breakthrough CD release of GQ's, 'Mr. Q'. Also, look out for a duet version of their 'I Do Love You,' with Rapper Shea to be released late this winter. J-Love has co-produced his CD titled 'Off The Hook.' The current release from J-Smooth is titled 'Passion.'
Gates will open at 4:30 p.m. The concert begins promptly at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance and $45 at the door. If you are a nonprofit interested in fundraising, a business that wants to distribute tickets for this or future events, or to purchase tickets, please contact Cornelius Brown at (866) 514-3391.
