Kelly Price opened up her soul at the “ATL Live on the Park,” and she proceeded to bathe us with her powerful voice and massage our emotions with her unforgettable cuts. With her roof-rattling renditions rocking the joint, Price got folks reacquainted real quick with the classics that are seared into our consciousness like a tattoo.
This was quintessential “ATL Live on the Park” at the Park Tavern on the edge of Piedmont Park. Produced by industry music vets Shanti Das and Marlon Nichols and presented by Gentleman Jack, ATL Live on the Park is a monthly musical showcase that often features more stars in the audience than on stage. Everyone from Tyrese, Pebbles, Q Parker (112), Brandon Casey (Jagged Edge), Nicci Gilbert (Brownstone), Dondria and Anthony David was up in the spot.
Price commandeered the stage with “As We Lay” and her current single “Tired.” Then, she had the nerve to end her set with the love anthem “Friend of Mine” (with a little help from Q Parker). Though Price kept the folks on their feet, the iconic Andre Harrell was on hand to introduce his new group, Hamilton Park. Noel Gourdin was as cool as an ocean breeze when he belted out “Beautiful,” and “American Idol” alum Anoop Desai ripped it with Blackstreet’s classic “Don’t Leave Me.”
In March, 112’s combined electricity nearly burned a hole in the roof of the tent. This month it was Kelly Price. Who do Shanti Das and Marlon Nichols have to unveil to music lovers in May?
Additional attendees included: Tim Davies (Radio One GM), Hurricane Dave (Hot 107.9 PD), Bill Black (Hot 107.9 Asst PD), producer legend Eddie F, Takeo Spikes (San Francisco 49ers), Mike Kyser (President, Black Music – Atlantic Records), Joi Pitts (VP, Marketing – Atlantic Records), Sydney Margetson (VP, Publicity – Atlantic Records), Michael Mauldin (Mauldin Brand Agency), author/activist Jeff Johnson, Dionnee Harper (Atlantic Records), Coriya Murray (Radio One), Angela Fowler (Radio One), Wayne Brown (Who’s Who Publishing), Jovita Moore (WSB TV), Paula Witt (BET/”The Mo’Nique Show”), Diamond Morgan (BET/”The Mo’Nique Show”), Karen Thames (BET/”The Mo’Nique Show”), DJ Trauma and celeb hairstylist Nataki Minix.
With the crowd enjoying delicious cuisine and plenty of Gentlemen Jack available to help wash down the delectable stage acts, ATL Live on the Park is a great way to spend the evening with a special friend or group of friends.
–terry shropshire
