Soul and funk music lovers in Toronto rejoice! The popular Candlelight series is paying homage to pioneers of the genre, featuring the talented singer/songwriter Aphrose. Named one of CBC Music’s “30 Hot Canadian Artists Under 30”, the Toronto-based singer has also been nominated in the Adult Contemporary category for this year’s Juno Awards for her album Roses!. This April, she will be delivering smooth ballads and energetic anthems against the backdrop of thousands of twinkling candles.
Aphrose is “every woman” this season as she pays homage to iconic artists who have paved the way before her—Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle and Tina Turner among others—alongside her own original hits such as the upbeat hit “YaYa” and the moving “Good Love” from her Juno-nominated album. This concert at the historic Paradise Theatre is a celebration of soul, passion and talent in a city that proudly marches to its own beat.
Candlelight: Aretha Franklin & Chaka Khan in a night of Soul and Funk ft Aphrose
Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight—three pioneers that redefined soul, R&B and pop music, breaking barriers for women of colour in the industry. With gospel-rooted voices and emotive deliveries, they shaped the sound of music and their timeless tracks continue to speak to our own stories.
Bringing you a taste of some of their most beloved hits is Aphrose, a powerhouse of the Toronto music scene, who effortlessly shifts between chest and head voice, expressing the duality of power and vulnerability in the human condition. Surrounded by thousands of candles, you’ll hear renditions of “Through The Fire”, “Ain’t No Way” and “Sweet Thing” in a setlist that has been specially curated by the artist and Candlelight to focus on songs that have influenced and inspired her musical journey.
Aphrose will also belt out some of her most popular songs that have earned her national and international success, including a throwback to her debut LP Element with “Fire”. With Scott McCannell on bass, Isaiah Gibbons on drums, Will Gooch on guitar, Joel Visentin on keys/bgvs and Carrie Chestnutt playing the tenor sax, prepare for a funkified experience under the warm glow of candlelight.
Aphrose’s stage presence is magnetic and seeing her live surrounded by a sea of candles is a chance to experience an authentic artist who connects with their audience on a deeper level. So head to the Paradise Theatre located in the heart of Bloorcourt and get ready to experience a sensational live music concert.
There are two back-to-back performances scheduled for 6:30pm and 8:45pm so you can choose the one that best fits your schedule. Doors open 45 minutes before curtain and late entry is not permitted.