Having never seen the real Michael Jackson in concert, I feel as though now I missed out on seeing a piece of musical history. But thanks to Who’s Bad?, my family and I experienced what it would have been like. Founded by Vamsi Tadepalli in 2004, Who’s Bad, has been labeled as the ultimate Michael Jackson tribute band for the last 10 years and rightfully so. Saturday afternoon they performed at the Sellersville Theatre in Sellersville, PA. The family friendly show amazed and inspired young and old alike. For 2 hours the band paid tribute to Michael Jackson’s entire career from his Motown days with The Jackson 5 to his last solo efforts. The band covered hits such as “ABC”, “I’ll Be There”, “Billie Jean”, “Thriller”, “P.Y.T.”, “Smooth Criminal”, “Bad”, “Beat it”, “Man in the Mirror”, just to name a few. The audience loved seeing the signature Michael dance moves within each song and was obviously impressed by the talent of the entire band. At several parts of the show the entire audience stood up and clapped hands in unison, feeding the energy right back to the band.
Originating from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Who’s Bad is in their 10th year as a band. They have played over 1000 shows since 2004 and continually tour the world. Their team of dancers have resumes that include Broadway productions such as Phantom of the Opera and they’ve shared stages with the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, The Backstreet Boys, The Four Tops, Boys II Men, and hip hop superstar, Pitbull.
Who’s Bad was fronted by two different “Micheal’s“, Joseph Bell and Taalib York, as each took separate turns performing songs. Both Bell and York are immensely talented in emulating Michael Jackson’s moves and vocals I almost forgot I was at a cover show.
During “The Way You Make Me Feel” fans were invited on stage, turning the concert into a dance party. Children young as 4 years old came running up to the stage as their mother’s stood near the front. Much to my surprise my own kids got up there and began breakdancing! It was great fun for everyone, leaving the entire audience with lasting memories.
Who’s Bad is truly keeping the spirit of Michael Jackson’s music alive. Their performance reminds us why the King of Pop should not be forgotten. The music continues to impress younger fans who never had the chance to see the original Micheal in concert, reminding us older fans how the King of Pop lives on. I would encourage anyone to bring their family to their show…and don’t forget your silver glove!
2014 Who’s Bad Tour Dates
Nov 07 Riviera Theatre – North Tonawanda, NY
Nov 08 Lynn Auditorium – Lynn, MA
Nov 14 Teatro Caupolican – Santiago, Chile
Nov 15 Casino Rinconada – Rinconada, Chile
Nov 16 Casino Vina Del Mar – Viña Del Mar, Chile
Nov 20 Rhythm and Brews – Chattanooga, TN
Nov 21 Music Farm Columbia – Columbia, SC
Nov 22 Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA
Nov 29 Cone Denim Entertainment Center – Greensboro, NC
Dec 06 Lorain Palace Theatre – Lorain, OH
Dec 18 Brooklyn Bowl – Las Vegas, NV
Dec 19 Belly Up Tavern – Solana Beach, CA
Dec 20 THE COACH HOUSE – San Juan Capistrano, CA
Dec 26 The Egyptian Theatre – Park City, UT
Dec 27 The Egyptian Theatre – Park City, UT
Dec 28 The Egyptian Theatre – Park City, UT
Dec 29 The Egyptian Theatre – Park City, UT
Dec 30 Whiskey Jacques – Ketchum, ID
Dec 31 Pink Garter Theatre – Jackson Hole, WY
