“A People’s Tribute to the Queen”

On Thursday, August 30, 2018, more than 40 performing artists will honor the life and legacy of Aretha Franklin during the tribute concert “A People’s Tribute to the Queen” at the Chene Park Detroit Amphitheatre. The concert will be free to the public, but you will need to get your ticket online through Ticket Master for admission to the concert. Hurry and get your tickets because this show will probably fill up fast!

Here’s what you need to know about the event:

What: “A People’s Tribute to the Queen”

When: Thursday, August 30, 2018

Time: Gates open at 5 p.m. Show is scheduled for 6 – 9 p.m.

Where: Chene Park Detroit Amphitheatre

Leading artists representing R&B, Gospel, Jazz and Blues genres are slated to render tributes. The program information includes:

  • A Jazz and Blues tribute with Ralphe Armstrong, Franklin’s bassist and longtime friend, as Musical Director. Performances from: Joan BelgraveDoug CarnJean CarneDetroit’s Thornetta Davis and Dee Dee Bridgewater.
  • Visual montages will be presented throughout the event. Artist Demont Pinder will create a signature portrait on stage during the event.
  • A dance choreographed by George Faison will pay homage to the Queen.
  • An R&B tribute with Detroit’s Kern Brantley as Musical Director. Brantley served as musical director for the world’s largest acts including Lady Gaga and Beyonce, and led a tribute for Franklin in 2017. Narada Michael Walden will perform “Freeway of Love”, a song he penned for Franklin. Performances from Detroit artists including Cherri Black, Steffinie Christian, Angela DavisGwen FoxxBeth Griffith-ManleyKimmie Horne, KIKO, Alise King and L’Renee and Tasha Page-Lockhart. Ronnie McNeir will perform the song he wrote for the upcoming Franklin biopic.
  • Franklin’s son, Eddie, and her granddaughters Gracie and Victorie Franklin will render a special tribute.
  • A Gospel tribute with composer Kurt Carr and Detroit organist Derrick Starks as Musical Directors. Performances from: Santita Jackson, Dr. Bobby JonesLisa McCaw dancers, Tasha Page-LockhartKierra (KiKi) Sheard and Kathy Taylor.
  • Filmmaker Tyler Perry will introduce actress Jenifer Lewis, who will perform a piece written for the Queen. Remarks will be delivered by Judge Greg Mathis and actress Erica PeeplesShahida Mausi, President, The Right Productions who manages Chene Park and has known Franklin for decades, will provide special acknowledgments.
  • An All-Star tribute with Kern Brantley as Musical Director. Performances from: Regina BelleRaheem DeVaughnJohnny GillDave Hollister, L.J. Reynolds, Angie Stone, Tweet, Detroit’s Keith Washington and The Four Tops.
  • A “Respect” finale featuring all participants will close the event.

Many dignitaries, leaders, and hosts will attend and participate in the program. The participant list is information and subject to change. Suggested attire for attendees is white, in celebration of the Queen. Check the Chene Park website for event updates, broadcast and live-streaming information.

The QUEEN 👑 forever and for always. Rest in heaven our dearest Aretha Franklin.

A post shared by Chene Park (@cheneparkdetroit) on

Chene Park’s musical tribute to the Queen of Soul is part of many celebration events being held in Detroit. Yesterday, a gospel tribute for the late singer was held at New Bethel Baptist Church.

A public viewing for Aretha Franklin will be held today and tomorrow (Wednesday, August 29th) at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Ms. Franklin’s funeral is scheduled for the morning of Friday, August 31st at the Greater Temple in Detroit. It is a private, invitation-only funeral.

 

Photo courtesy of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

Details for the Public Viewing of Aretha Franklin

Ms. Aretha Franklin will lie in repose in the rotunda of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. The viewing will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on August 28 -29, 2018.

Parking: A high volume of people are expected to attend the public viewing. Therefore, it is strongly recommended for guests to carpool, ride-share, get dropped off, or take another form of public transportation to the museum.

Handicap Access: The museum is wheelchair accessible and there is a limited number of facility wheelchairs available at the museum.

Pictures and Videos: At the family’s request, recording devices will not be allowed during the viewing. All guests will be instructed to turn off and store all electronic devices before entering the museum.

Click here for more information about attending Aretha Franklin’s public viewing at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

 

Also, check out: Aretha, The Queen of Soul.

 

Written by

Jennifer Hamra

Freelance creative Jennifer Hamra created her blog Good Life Detroit in 2015 after relocating from Tennessee to Southeast Michigan.

Inspired by her love for personal blogging and photography, Jennifer likes to share her favorite Detroit things, from cool places to visit (the hidden gems are her favorite!) to the amazing people she has connected with over the years.

When she's not busy juggling family life and her creative projects, you can find her at an art gallery, community event, farmers market, or spending quiet time at home with a good book and cup of tea.

Jennifer lives in the metro Detroit area with her husband Travis and their six children.

Connect with Jennifer on social media @goodlifedetroit on all social media platforms or via email at [email protected].