Jimmy Delgado on Stage with Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte
Harry Belafonte immediately captivated
the audience.
by Marcia Stevenson

What could be better then spending a scorching summer night listening to the "King of Calypso", Harry Belafonte and band perform their "cool" blend of folk, jazz and worldbeat music. When Belafonte took the stage you were drawn to his staggering good looks and immense talent. The world reknowned singer opened the concert with his classic songs putting the audience into a relaxing groove.

After listening to the band for a few minutes you can easily hear how every band member is in his or her own way a virtuoso. Sara Mann and Anthony Mills are talented vocalists that complimented Belafonte's arrangements. Music Director and keyboardist Lenny Underwood, along with guitarist Josh Weinstein and bassist Mamadu Ba added a strong musical foundation which was accentuated by drummer Keith Carlock and LP endorser and percussionist Jimmy Delgado contagious rhythms.

Jimmy Delgado, a long-time LP artist, a multi-talented percussionist went to work with a complete line of LP instruments. His masterful playing emphasized Belafontes music during the performance but it was most evident during his two solos.

Singer, actor, activist and humanitarian Harry Belafonte paid homage to all the activists who have contributed to protecting world peace. He also dedicated a song to the memory of Audrey Hepburn, a close friend and fellow humanitarian. Belafonte shared the stage with his band members, as each were given time to solo and promote their unique talents.

Jimmy mentioned after the performance that he really enjoys touring and playing with the band. It was most apparent during a backstage visit when LP Artist Relation's Assistant Terry Tlalpata and I experienced the comraderie between the band members and staff. Costume Director, Bobby Conde gave us an inside look at their exquisite wardrobes including Belafonte's stunning black and white, geometric shirt and singer Sara Mann's beautiful, layered multi-colored, calypso dress.

If you are looking for a way to relax, de-stress and enjoy some good music check out Harry Belafonte and his band. What does LP artist Jimmy Delgado have planned for the near future? Besides continuing to play and tour with Belafonte (if that wasn't enough), he's scheduled several concerts in New York City and Los Angeles with his group Jimmy Delgado's Master Timbaleros. The Afro/Cuban style of music will certainly be a treat on a hot summer night in the city.

Music Director and keyboardist Lenny Underwood, guitarist Josh Weinstein and LP endorser and percussionist Jimmy Delgado
Music Director and keyboardist Lenny Underwood, guitarist Josh Weinstein and LP endorser and percussionist Jimmy Delgado.
Vocalists Sara Mann and Anthony Mills with bassist Mamadu Ba.
Vocalists Sara Mann and Anthony Mills with bassist Mamadu Ba.
Harry Belafonte with guitarist Josh Weinstein and percussionist Jimmy Delgado.
Harry Belafonte with guitarist Josh Weinstein and percussionist Jimmy Delgado.
Backstage with LP endorser Jimmy Delgado, LP Artist Relation's Assistant Teresa Tlatelpa and Harry Belafonte.
Backstage with LP endorser Jimmy Delgado, LP Artist Relation's Assistant Teresa Tlatelpa and Harry Belafonte.
Costume Director Bobby Conde with Jimmy's favorite shirt, NOT!
Costume Director Bobby Conde with Jimmy's favorite shirt, NOT!
A close-up view of Sara Mann's beautiful, layered multi-colored, calypso dress and Harry's stunning black and white, geometric shirt.
A close-up view of Sara Mann's beautiful, layered multi-colored, calypso dress and Harry's stunning black and white, geometric shirt.