FORT BENNING, Ga., (Sept. 17, 2014) -- The Benning Bash kicked off Sept. 13 after a few evening rain showers, but audiences showed their support on a muddy York Field as Kool and the Gang and special guests RaeLynn and Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown performed for Soldiers, Family members and the community.
Despite the weather, Edmond Singleton traveled from Harris County to see Kool and the Gang perform one of his favorite songs, Celebration. It was his first time seeing a live performance from the band, he said.
"I grew up on Kool and the Gang and they were one of my favorite groups," he said. "I still love their music, it inspires me. Even though the weather's bad, I'm still glad to be here."
RaeLynn and Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown opened the concert with songs from their latest albums before Kool and the Gang took the stage to perform several classic hits.
Kool & The Gang has sold more than 70 million albums worldwide thanks to 70s and 80s hits Celebration, Cherish, Jungle Boogie, Summer Madness and Open Sesame. In addition to two Grammy awards, they've won seven American Music Awards, earned 25 top 10 R&B hits, nine top 10 Pop hits and 31 gold and platinum albums.
Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation marketing specialist Bridgett Siter said the Benning Bash is offered each year to provide a night of free Family-friendly entertainment for the Fort Benning community.
"When a band like Kool and the Gang says they want to come and do concert for our Soldiers and the community, and it's for free, we wouldn't dare pass that up," she said. "I'm personally excited about this, being a child of the 70s and 80s. We love our community so we opened it up to the public, but this is our way and their way of saying thanks for all you do."
Singleton said the opportunity to see his favorite band perform for the military made him feel proud.
"As a veteran, it makes me feel good that they support the Soldiers, and to give a little back to the Soldier is great," he said.
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