The Green Music Center hosted the Bay Area’s Tower of Power on Saturday, Sept. 4 as part of its Summer at the Green series. Established in Oakland in 1968, Tower of Power, or TOP, has been at the forefront of the funk and soul music genres for over 50 years. 

“Tower of Power are Bay Area funk and soul icons… They continue to deliver new and exciting music, while also performing their classic hits with the same signature sound they had when they formed in 1968,” wrote Andy Shepherd, Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications for the GMC.

With around 2,000 guests in attendance, it was clear that TOP’s influence stretches well beyond the Bay.

“Tower of Power is one of the most influential funk/soul bands of all time. You can hear their impact in a lot of new music. They have a history of over 50 years and still bring high energy to the stage and sound as good as ever,” wrote Jacob Yarrow, Executive Director at the GMC, in an email.

With some concert-goers inside the GMC’s main hall, and the rest sprawled across the expansive yard right behind the building, sitting on blankets, lawn chairs, and numerous picnic tables, there is something for everyone at the GMC events. The lawn and interior hall are connected when the GMC opens up the large back wall, creating the perfect indoor/outdoor situation, and making it safer for those inside with added ventilation.

There were plenty of food and drink vendors on-site, allowing those outdoors to savor local offerings while enjoying the performance. 

“We’ve seen lower ticket sales than we did pre-pandemic, but we’re still very happy with the expected turnout for the show,” wrote Shepherd. 

The team at the GMC selects artists to perform based on the tastes of students and the community. The energy at the GMC was electric; it was clear that everyone in attendance was excited to be there. There was dancing and clapping in seats, and the lead singer encouraged the audience to get up and move on multiple occasions.

“Our mission is to present the most compelling artists of our time and provide access to diverse artistic experiences that educate, connect and inspire… Numerous artists are selected based on their ability to connect with students and our communities outside of the concert hall…” stated Shepard in an email.

The GMC’s attention to detail does not go unnoticed by those in attendance as Stacey Cook, Davis resident and huge TOP fan, said, “This is an amazing venue. I’ve been a fan [of TOP] since the 70s. They are all musicians, and they are very skilled. They know the music, they know the timing, they’re connected to the community and to Oakland. They’ve been around for 50 years and they’re still making new music!”

This event was successful in bringing together an audience composed of fans from Sonoma County and beyond.  

“I grew up in San Francisco, and have been a fan since Lenny Williams was with the group. This [show] really took me back! It’s food for the soul,” stated Kathy, a Santa Rosa resident.

Summer at the Green will continue for another two weeks, with a performance by the legendary Beach Boys coming up Friday, Sept. 17. 

“[Students] can expect to have a good time [at the GMC], and perhaps discover something new and revealing. They can also expect to pay $10 for most any show, which is one of the ways we provide access to the performances,” stated Yarrow.

Check out the GMC’s website to learn more about upcoming shows and events.