I grew up with the sounds of the O’Jays’ “Love Train” with its soulful groove. Along with them, Al Green was another joy in my musical repertoire; his lyrics fascinated me. They were direct expressions of his feelings like in the songs “Let’s Stay Together”, and “I’m Tired of Being Alone”. A core memory for me was watching Barack Obama, another Chicagoan, feel relaxed to sing Al’s song. All of these memories ran in the back of my mind as I approached Highland Park on the Metra. For my first ever Ravinia Festival experience, I was excited to capture this soulful evening.
Upon exiting the Metra Train, I was greeted by a dancing water fountain. It lit up and plummeted up with music under the Ravinia Park archway. This immediately made me feel like this place could transport me to another world, much like a Disney World experience. As I strolled through the crowd on the lawn, I saw a variety of unique picnic setups complete with elaborate candelabras, families having barbecues, and birthday celebrations.
People All Over the World, Join Hands
The background singers rejoiced, as I spotted one red star-studded jumpsuit appear on stage. Then another and another. Before I knew it, there they were striking a chord in unison. Walter Williams and Eric Nolan Grant, the original members of the O’Jays, were ready to perform on what would be the group’s last tour. Eddie Levert, the third member of the trio, was unable to perform due to health issues. Nonetheless, the show continued with another singer in his place that gave so much passion in his voice.
They opened with “Give the People What They Want”, and indeed, they did. The trio danced to little choreographed steps, encouraging the audience to feel free in the cool evening air. As the show progressed, they offered an intimate glimpse into their lives. After singing heartfelt ballads, Walter shared his experience with battling COVID-19. “The doctor asked me if I believed in God. I thought I was on my way to meet him. Really, it was that guidance from Him that returned me to health. I am so grateful to be here tonight with these guys”, he said, visibly emotional.
The rest of the set was an invigorating compilation of their greatest hits, including “For the Love of Money,” couples cuddling to “Use ta Be My Girl”, and of course the top hit, “Love Train”. I got to hold hands with people I didn’t know, as festival-goers started making a love train around the sidewalk. I felt so much unity and it visually demonstrated how not only this song, but music all together unites people. A memorable way to conclude their last performance in Chicago.
After a brief intermission, Al Green instantly lit up the room. He grabbed a bouquet of roses (with no thorns, thank goodness) and handed them out to people sitting in the front row; me included. I felt so honored, and I’m definitely saving this memento. He made funny quips during his performance; while singing “Take Me to the River”. Green was having a time with his pants being too big, joking that his pants felt like they were flowing like the river. He had delightful spunk and made fun comments to his band members jamming behind him, one of whom was his brother.
A treat for the ears was hearing his Motown influences in a medley of covers, ranging from the Temptations to Otis Redding. In these songs, especially toward the end of the show, he patiently waited for his voice to carry out his legendary high notes. He promised he would get there, and he certainly did. It was phenomenal. Though at times he seemed a little tired. At one point, he said “I’m trying to be here; I’m not trying to die”. I don’t blame him because of his commitment to dress up in a classy velvet suit on stage after the recent heat wave; I commend him.
What a wonderful evening of Love and Happiness!
All photos by Lyra Wilson.
