Tag: War The Band

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The legendary funk-rock band brings their hit-filled tour to CANNERY CASINO….

With a band named WAR, you know that there is plenty of depth embedded within the lashing guitar licks, distinctive rhythms, and passionate vocals. Born out of the cultural turbulence of the 1960s, WAR was anything but a proponent of violence. One of the first multi-ethnic groups to break into the mainstream with titles like “The Cisco Kid”, WAR stood for cultural equality, peace, and harmony. And more than five decades later, their message couldn’t be more relevant.

Blending funk, rock, jazz, reggae and Latin influences into their own distinctive sound, WAR is often called “The original street band”. Formed in 1969 with over 50 million records sold and 12 Billboard Top 40 hits, WAR had a huge impact on cultural fusion. Sadly, the racism, civil unrest, and prejudice of decades past have once again reared their ugly heads. Thank goodness that WAR is back on tour, sharing an appeal for positivity with songs like “Why Can’t We Be Friends”, “Spill The Wine” and “The World Is A Ghetto”.

Many of WAR‘s shows have been historic events, some in ways that would become painful memories. Jimi Hendrix joined the group onstage in 1970 for what would be his final live performance. The very next day, he passed away. Band member Papa Dee Allen suffered a brain aneurysm and died during a show in 1988. But love, loss and a belief in the healing power of music have continued to propel the band forward.

                                                            Lonnie Jordan of WAR

As with any long-running troupe, the line-up of WAR has changed frequently throughout the years. The one constant has been singer/songwriter Leroy “Lonnie” Jordan. A native of San Diego, Jordan has enriched the band with his distinctive vocal style while also playing percussion, guitar, and keyboards. He’s seen the group rise from small clubs in southern California through their nomination for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. That same year, they released their newest album EVOLUTIONARY.

Growing up as a young man in the Viet Nam era, Jordan might not have realized the lasting impact that he and his “Low Rider” bandmates were about to make on the world, but it was certainly their intention to try: