Motown’s greatest hits are coming to Felton — but not in their usual form.
Felton’s Ukulele Dick, the creator of the famed White Album Ensemble, will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Motown music with a jug band performance, recreating the originals on washtub, mandolin, harmonicas and kazoos, and more.
“By reproducing records, you take people back to that time,” said Ukulele Dick, aka Rick McKee. “It’s a whole lot harder and a lot fresher. It’s unique and entertaining. The strange effect is it actually does sound like the originals.”
Ukulele Dick, the owner of Guitar Works in Felton, has had the piecemeal band rehearsed since February for a single show Nov. 13 at Don Quixote’s International Music Hall.
The evening will include a preshow retrospective of the year 1959 by local musical man Paul Wagner. Funny man Sven Davis’ “History of Motown” will weave a historical tapestry throughout the concert.
The show will feature classic tunes made famous by The Supremes, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye and many other Motown legends.
Ukulele Dick said the music reminds him of the time when the baby boomer generation entered puberty — a time when “we were trying to pick up girls.”
He said he is excited to have a host of talented local musicians join him for the one-time gig.
Felton’s Jayme Kelly Curtis, Matt Bohn and Patty Maxine will join drummer Olaf Schiappacasse of Santa Cruz and Topher Gayle of San Jose, along with Rahn Wilson and Grammy-nominated vocalist Tammi Brown of Santa Cruz.
“I consider these to be some of the top players in the area,” Ukulele Dick said.
