No big secret that I’m a huge fan of the 70’s and 80’s era local music scene and there are few performers more well known locally than Donnie Iris and the Cruisers and Jonah Koslen. Some of the best music ever performed in this area has come from these two acts – and on August 16th both men (and their respective bands) will ignite the Akron Civic Theater.
The event page explains:
DONNIE IRIS
Pittsburgh icon Donnie Iris learned how to sing from his Mother and then from Tony Bennett and Marvin Gaye. In 1970, as a member of the Jaggerz, Donnie earned a gold record for writing and singing the No. 1 song “The Rapper.”
In or around 1978, Donnie was asked to join “Wild Cherry” (“Play That Funky Music, White Boy”) in the group’s waning days. Donnie met Mark Avsec, his future collaborator and partner, in “Wild Cherry” and the two of them began discussing plans for a recording project.
JONAH KOSLEN
Beachwood, Ohio native Jonah Koslen has been active in the music business as a composer, a producer and a performer, since 1973. As the original member of the Michael Stanley Band, Jonah wrote and recorded some of MSB”s most loved songs, “Waste a Little Time On Me”, “Strike Up The Band”, “Nothings Gonna Change My Mind” and “Ladies Choice”. Jonah contributed lead guitar, lead vocals and arrangements to the first three MSB albums and numerous compilations. His song, “Nothings Gonna Change My Mind” charted nationally in the summer of 1977.
VIP Gala Experience
- Premium Seating
- VIP Pre-Party – food and drinks
- Valet Parking
- Pre-Party starts at 5:30 pm
Tickets went on sale today – head HERE to grab your spot.
A little music from both artists to tide you over……
Written for and performed by Jonah’s band BREATHLESS in 1979.
