About This Footage
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, June 2009. A city still reeling from the devastating flood that ravaged its streets just a year prior. The Crest Fest Celebration was held to commemorate the anniversary, with music and community coming together to heal and rebuild. Amidst this backdrop of resilience, a cover band took the stage: Well Lit, known for their energetic renditions of classic hits.
This 1:34 clip is more than just a rare recording; it's a snapshot of a moment in time. The artist, Lit, may be familiar to some as a 90s rock band, but here they're paying homage to the funk and soul of Wild Cherry's "Play That Funky Music White Boy." It's a testament to their versatility and ability to connect with audiences through music. By covering this iconic track, Well Lit taps into the collective memory of a generation, evoking feelings of nostalgia and joy.
What makes this clip truly remarkable is its context. The Chrome Horse Saloon in Cedar Rapids was one of the many venues where Well Lit regularly performed. This footage isn't just a random recording; it's a reflection of the band's commitment to their community and their role in bringing people together through music. By opening for national acts like Amanda Overmyer, former American Idol finalist, they demonstrated their ability to share the stage with more established talent.
The fact that this video is labeled as "rare" speaks volumes about its significance. In an era where live performances are often recorded and shared online, it's not often that we get to experience a moment like this – raw, unpolished, and authentic. This clip is a time capsule, capturing the energy of a live performance and the connection between the band and their audience.
Watching Well Lit perform "Play That Funky Music White Boy" in 2009 offers a glimpse into a bygone era. The music industry has undergone significant changes since then, with the rise of streaming platforms and social media altering the way we consume and interact with music. This clip serves as a reminder of the power of live performance to bring people together, transcending genres and generations.
As you watch Well Lit take the stage, their enthusiasm is infectious. The crowd is entranced, singing along to every word. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of this song, which has become an anthem for good times and bad. In the midst of recovery and rebuilding, music provided solace and comfort – a universal language that bridges gaps and fosters connection.
This clip will leave you with a sense of nostalgia for the live performances of yesteryear, but also a renewed appreciation for the role music plays in our lives. It's a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope, and that music has the power to heal and unite us. The Chrome Horse Saloon may be just one venue, but it represents a larger community – one that comes together through music, and finds strength in its collective voice.
Curated from public records and music databases.
