The Legendary O Jays to Headline Free Ibe Concert July 19Th

For Immediate ReleaseFor More Information Contact Monday, March 11, 2013 Vernon Williams 317.923.3044

THE LEGENDARY O’JAYS TO HEADLINE FREE IBE CONCERT JULY 19TH

INDIANAPOLIS – The legendary O’Jays singing group – soul music icons for more than half a century – will headline the Indiana Black Expo® 43rd Annual Summer Celebration Music Heritage Festival Free Concert Friday, July 19th at the American Legion Mall. The O’Jays will be joined on the show by the dance groove rhythms of R&B band Midnight Star.

In an industry replete with “one-hit wonders” and countless talents that never experience a true “hit,” the O’Jays have generated 59 songs that reached the coveted Billboard charts with 24 smashing through to Top 10 and ten singles that peaked at No. 1; including their first chart-topper, “Back Stabbers.” That was followed by a string of hits including, “I Love Music,” “Usta Be My Girl,” and “Give the People What they Want.”

Inductees in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and recipients of the BET Lifetime Achievement Award, the O’Jays have withstood the test of time, evidenced by hits like “For the Love of Money” still used this season as the theme for the popular NBC “The Apprentice.” Another No. 1 release - “Love Train” – is used in a series of internationally-televised commercials for Coors Beer.

The band that will precede the O’Jays to the stage has carved a niche in the classic funk and soul genre. Midnight Star boasts its own collection of gold and platinum albums and singles. The spirited live performance act is best known for hits like “Operator,” “No Parking on the Dance Floor,” “Freak-A-Zoid” and “Wet My Whistle.”

While there is no ticket charge for the free outdoor concert, reserved seating in a fenced-off VIP section closer to the stage is available at $40. Those interested in VIP seating may call 317.925.2702; buy tickets at the IBE Finance Office located at o3145 N. Meridians St. or purchase online at

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About Indiana Black Expo, Inc. Indiana Black Expo, Inc. (IBE) is a year-round, multifaceted community service organization with 12 chapters around the state of Indiana. IBE is known for its two major fund raisers, Summer Celebration and Circle City Classic®. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit is governed by a board of directors comprised of individual and community leaders from around the state of Indiana and employs a full-time staff. The mission is to be an effective voice and vehicle for the social and economic advancement of African Americans.