UNC gets a case of the blues

Those who attend Carolina Performing Arts’ “World Blues” event tonight will learn that blues is more than just a music genre.

“World Blues,” a musical performance by a group of world-renowned blues performers, will illustrate the expansion of blues music throughout many countries and cultures.

Henry Fredericks, legendary musician and Grammy winner who uses the stage name Taj Mahal, will be joined by his daughter, Deva Mahal, and her band, Fredericks Brown.

Musician Vusi Mahlasela will also join the others — he is known as “The Voice,” in South Africa, where he is recognized for his tremendous musical and political impact on South Africa.

“We are so lucky to see (Taj Mahal) in real life, on our stage,” said Mark Nelson, CPA’s director of marketing and public relations.

The group has been performing in many locations throughout the eastern United States in recognition of American blues’ influence on nations across the globe.

Taj Mahal began as a performer more than 40 years ago, but he has since developed his music to represent countries outside of the United States.

“Taj Mahal is a big deal — he’s a living legend, and he’s one of those guys that has had such an influence on music,” Nelson said.

Deva Mahal and Fredericks Brown draw on historical roots and cultural heritage for their unique musical sound.

The band has performed with artists such as Grace Potter, the Carolina Chocolate Drops and Etta James. The “World Blues” event is a chance for this group to showcase the new generation of blues.

And Mahlasela is known for his politically active musical themes that revolve around the anti-apartheid campaign in South Africa. Mahlasela performed for Nelson Mandela’s inauguration and was featured in the Dave Matthews Band song, “Everyday.”

“We want (audience members) to be entertained and have a great time, and I think (World Blues) is one of our more accessible performances,” said Joe Florence, CPA’s marketing and communications manager.

Taj Mahal’s influence in the United States and on blues music worldwide is what made CPA want to bring the group to UNC.

“From the perspective of Arts@TheCore and academic integration and this quintessential American art form, (World Blues) is a great opportunity to see how blues impacts, or has been impacted, by different aspects of the world,” said CPA’s postdoctoral fellow Aaron Shackelford, who will be hosting the post-performance discussion.

“I think it is important for students to realize this particular art form we study in American studies and through other cultures gives us the idea of the global impact of our arts.”

CPA’s project, Arts@theCore, aims to bring art performances to campus that present global perspectives.

“Seeing these performers live really is truly a different experience than hearing the performance on your iPhone, or watching it on YouTube,” Shackelford said.

Florence said he hopes people see how American blues has influenced the world.

“I want audiences to, frankly, be able to clap their hands and tap their toes and have a nice time,” he said.

arts@dailytarheel.com