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In April of 2016, Bobby Hendricks made his final New England appearance on a multi-act show at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford, MA. He was backed by the Massachusetts-based group, Back in Time, consisting of Leslie Anderson (longtime lead of Cleveland Still's Dubs), Sid Hall of the Philips-label Flamingos, Carl Williams, and Freddy Guess. Although it was not made public at the time, 78-year-old Bobby had recently been diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer's Disease. Despite the diagnosis, the performance was a resounding success. In this informal footage shot the night before the show, Bobby Hendricks rehearses four of the songs from his full-length set with Back in Time and musical director-arranger Jack Colombo: "Money Honey", "Drip Drop", "A Thousand Dreams", which he had not performed in more than 50 years, and "Such A Night" with friend Kid Kyle and his Harmony Masters. Bobby died of complications from the disease on March 25, 2022 at age 84.
Robert Raymond Hendricks (February 22, 1938 – March 25, 2022) was an American R&B singer who charted two hits in the late 1950s.
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Bobby Hendricks' Rehearsal Footage: A Glimpse into a Legend's Final Days
In April 2016, just months before his passing, R&B singer Bobby Hendricks took to the stage with Massachusetts-based group Back in Time for a sold-out performance at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford, MA. This informal rehearsal footage, shot the night before the show, offers a poignant glimpse into the life of an American music icon in his twilight years.
At 78, Hendricks had recently been diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer's Disease, yet he still managed to deliver a "resounding success" on stage that evening. The fact that this footage exists at all is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of Hendricks, who continued to perform despite the challenges posed by his illness.
The rehearsal itself is a masterclass in classic R&B, with Hendricks and Back in Time working through four songs from his full-length set: "Money Honey", "Drip Drop", "A Thousand Dreams" (a song he hadn't performed in over 50 years), and "Such A Night". The camaraderie between Hendricks and the musicians is palpable, and it's clear that they're all having a blast.
What makes this footage so remarkable is its rarity. Few recordings exist of Hendricks performing live in his later years, and none capture him rehearsing with such a talented group of musicians. This clip provides a unique window into the life of a legendary artist, one who had been charting hits since the late 1950s.
Hendricks' legacy is built on songs like "Itchy Tummy Shakes" and "The Geisha", but it's his later work that showcases his enduring talent. The fact that he continued to perform well into his 70s, despite his diagnosis, speaks volumes about his dedication to his craft.
Watching this footage, one can't help but feel a sense of sadness. We're witnessing the final performances of an artist who had given so much to the world of music. Yet, it's also a testament to Hendricks' resilience and determination. He refused to let his illness define him, choosing instead to keep on singing.
As we watch Bobby Hendricks rehearse with Back in Time, we're reminded of the power of music to transcend time and circumstance. It's a poignant reminder that even as our bodies may fail us, our spirits can remain unbroken. This footage is a gift to fans and historians alike, offering a glimpse into the life of an American music icon in his final days.
The rehearsal footage ends with Hendricks and his bandmates laughing and joking together, their camaraderie and joy infectious. It's a moment that stays with you long after the clip has ended, a reminder of the enduring power of music to bring people together.
Curated from public records and music databases.
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