War in Beverly

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One of the most popular funk groups of the ’70s, the band War was also one of the most eclectic . . . freely melding soul, Latin, jazz, blues, reggae and rock influences into an effortlessly funky whole. Although War’s lyrics were sometimes political in nature, in keeping with their racially integrated lineup, their music almost always had a sunny, laid-back vibe emblematic of their Southern California roots. War kept the groove loose, and they were given over to extended jamming; in fact, many of their studio songs were edited together out of longer improvisations. The band’s grooving interplay placed War in the top echelon of funk ensembles.

“Don’t you know that it’s true, that for you and for me, The World Is A Ghetto.”  These were the lyrics and the title track from the 1972 album from the band called WAR. The band formed in 1969, and they had the nerve to carry the name WAR at a time when peace was the slogan in an anti-Vietnam America . . . but their mission was to spread a message of brotherhood and harmony!

WAR would wind up being honored with 17 gold, platinum or multi-platinum awards which included the triple platinum “The World Is A Ghetto,” the double platinum “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” and greatest hits, the platinum albums Deliver The Word, WAR Live, All Day Music, Best Of WAR and . . . more and Platinum Jazz, along with gold albums Eric Burdon Declares WAR, Galaxy and The Music Band.

“Our instruments and voices became our weapons of choice and the songs our ammunition. We spoke out against racism, hunger, gangs, crimes, and turf wars, as we embraced all people with hope and the spirit of brotherhood. It’s just as apropos today,” states veteran record producer Jerry Goldstein whose hits had included “My Boyfriend’s Back”, “Hang On Sloopy” and “I Want Candy” and who brought the original street band together along with rock legend Eric Burdon, the ex-lead singer of the top British band The Animals.

War plays The Cabot Theatre on Saturday, Aug 27. Showtime is 8 PM (Doors open at 7 PM). Ticket Price: $35 – $55.