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Respect to Aretha

,Barbican Hall
Colourful illustrations of Aretha Franklin and the performers

New York Afrobeat ensemble Antibalas are joined by Bettye LaVette, José James, Zara McFarlane, Alice Russell and Nona Hendryx, to honour the legacy of the Queen of Soul.

From timeless favourites to deep cuts from her back catalogue, Aretha’s greatness as the defining name in soul music, is truly showcased in an evening of celebration, reflection and high energy.

Modelled on Fela Kuti’s Africa 70 and the Harlem River Drive Orchestra, Antibalas are an afrobeat collective currently in their third decade. They are joined by American soul icon Bettye LaVette who grew up listening to Aretha and later performed with her; José James, who has been called 'the jazz singer for the hip-hop generation', Labelle signer Nona Hendyx and two of the voices bringing soul into the modern landscape, British singer Alice Russell, who is known for her collaborations with David Byrne and Fatboy Slim amongst others, and Zara McFarlane, now one of the most successful singers in contemporary British jazz.

Tagged with: Contemporary music

Start time: 8pm

Approx running time: 90 minutes, no interval

All times are subject to change

Produced by the Barbican in association with Philharmonie de Paris

Programme

Discover

Photo of Antibalas' NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Listen: Antibalas Tiny Desk Concert

Watch 11-member collective Brooklyn band Antibalas' NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert, lead by Nigerian Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti.

Photo of Aretha Franklin singing I Say A Little Prayer

Listen: Aretha Franklin's I Say A Little Prayer

Watch one of the best-selling artists of all time Aretha Franklin, perform her hit single I Say A Little Prayer.

photo of carleen anderson singing

Watch: Barbican Session - Carleen Anderson

In this Barbican Session, Soul singer Carleen Anderson performs Before Me from her album 'Cage Street Memorial' in our conductor's dressing room.

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Barbican Hall

Location
The Barbican Hall is located within the main Barbican building. Head to Level G and follow the signs to find your seating level. 

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
​​​​​​​The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.