The Show
Prolific producer and performer Raphael Saadiq warmed up a cold winter night in Boston with a nine-piece band performing the soulful songs from The Way I See It, his masterful album that reflects his deep love for 1960s rhythm and blues. The special show took place at the Harvard Club, in the Main Clubhouse on Commonwealth Avenue built in 1912, and showcased the rich blend of funky grooves and smooth balladry that is Saadiq’s calling card.
The special show took place at the Harvard Club built in 1912, and showcased the rich blend of funky grooves and smooth balladry that is Saadiq’s calling card.
Raphael Saadiq
Raphael Saadiq has been a standard bearer for “old school” R&B since his early days as a member of the groundbreaking, multiplatinum group Tony! Toni! Toné! The Way I See It, Raphael’s third solo album, emulates the sound and flavor of ’60s soul music, delivering a masterful homage to a bygone era of feel-good rhythm and blues.The multi-talented Oakland, California native has since become an award-winning producer of such artists as Joss Stone, Snoop Dogg, John Legend, and Solange Knowles, in addition to releasing his own acclaimed material.
The Venue
The Harvard Club was founded in 1908 by a group of 22 Harvard alumni to “encourage the social, intellectual, and athletic interests of its members, promote the welfare of Harvard University, assist worthy students with financial aid, and foster the Harvard spirit in all Harvard men and women.” Membership eligibility is restricted to anyone who has received a degree or honorary degree from Harvard, full-time students at the university, faculty members, those holding appointments at any of Harvard’s teaching hospitals, and children and grandchildren of current members. In 1909, the Club established a scholarship program that continues today – in 2008, the Club awarded $510,944 in scholarship funds to worthy young men and women. Photography courtesy of Erika Goldring for Artists Den Entertainment
