About This Footage
James Jamerson's Legacy on Full Display in Rare Live Performance
The footage of James Jamerson Jr. performing live at the Don Was All Star Review Concert of Colors in 2007 is a treasure trove for fans of Motown and Detroit Soul music. The clip, featuring Jamerson alongside other legends like Melvin Davis, Spyder Turner, Ken Knox, and McKinley Jackson, offers a rare glimpse into the musical landscape of the time.
At the height of his career, James Jamerson Jr. was still reeling from the loss of his father, James "Big Jim" Jamerson, who had passed away in 1997. The elder Jamerson was an integral part of Motown's sound, laying down iconic basslines for The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye among others. His son, James Jr., was already making a name for himself as a skilled musician, but he still had to navigate the shadow of his father's legacy.
The Don Was All Star Review Concert of Colors was a celebration of Detroit's rich musical heritage, featuring some of the city's most talented musicians coming together to perform. The clip shows Jamerson Jr. and his bandmates delivering an energetic performance of "Crying In A Whisper" from their album Back To Class. What makes this footage so significant is that it captures Jamerson Jr.'s ability to blend his own style with the classic Motown sound, creating something new while still honoring his father's legacy.
The presence of other legends like Melvin Davis and Spyder Turner adds to the clip's significance. Davis was a renowned bassist who had worked with artists such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, while Turner was a vocalist and guitarist who had been a key figure in the development of Detroit Soul music. The fact that these musicians came together to perform alongside Jamerson Jr. speaks to the strong musical bonds within the Detroit community.
The clip is also notable for its raw energy and spontaneity. The performance is loose and improvisational, with each musician feeding off the others' energy. It's clear that this was a special moment in time, one where some of Motown's greatest talents came together to celebrate their shared heritage.
Watching this footage, viewers will gain a deeper appreciation for James Jamerson Jr.'s skills as a musician and his ability to carry on his father's legacy. They'll also get a glimpse into the rich musical history of Detroit, with its vibrant community of musicians who continue to inspire new generations of artists. The Don Was All Star Review Concert of Colors was more than just a celebration – it was a testament to the enduring power of Motown and Detroit Soul music.
The clip's rarity only adds to its value as a historical document. With so much of Motown's history being lost or forgotten, footage like this is precious. It serves as a reminder that even in the digital age, there are still stories waiting to be uncovered and shared with the world.
Curated from public records and music databases.
