If there were a First Lady of Funk, it would have to be Dawn Silva. From her early days singing with Sly & The Family Stone, to her stints with Parliament, Funkadelic, the Brides of Funkenstein, and even some time with the Gap Band, she continues to be an explosive, dynamic performer, captivating fans around the globe with her infectious enthusiasm and energy.

This Saturday at the intersection of Broadway and Pine, the 2nd Annual Long Beach Funk Fest kicks off at noon, with an amazing series of performances that culminate, at 9:00pm, with the Ladies of P Funk, featuring the Brides of Funkenstein and Parlet. Dawn’s performance at last year’s Funk Fest was so impressive that the organizers had to bring her back, so she’s back, with the Brides of Funkenstein.

I asked Dawn about the resurgence of Funk in the last few years.

Dawn: When you hear and experience the heart and soul of true Funk music for the first time, you almost lose your mind. That’s what fanning the flames. The love for Funk music has never wavered; especially on the underground market. That’s why we call ourselves Funk Soldiers: We’ve been down here in the trenches keeping it alive, and it’s working ’cause everyone’s talking. My joy comes from sharing this music and, each time I touch someone through this music, the quality of my life is enhanced.

I play in South America with The Platters, as well as The Latin Kings, which is another Christian-based Latin Jazz/Funk band with an all-star cast. They have a huge fan base, and their music is composed of funk, rock and Latin Jazz. Followers worship and fellowship through the heart of this music, and I’m honored to know that the percussionists will be joining us on stage at the LBFF this year.

Sander: How was your experience at last year’s Funk Fest?

Dawn: Absolutely amazing. They had funk soldiers from age 5 to 85 partying and dancing together to the rhythm of the one. It was a festival that I will never forget.

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Complete details about this FREE show can be found at LBFunkFest.com. The Long Beach Funk Fest is part of the Summer and Music concert series, sponsored in part by the DLBA and the RDA. The organizers of SAM have made a commitment to sustainability and, as a part of that, have partnered with Sustainable Waves, an Austin-based all- solar staging, lighting and sound company offering 100 percent pollution-free concerts.

Also, check out some photos from last year’s Funk Fest.

Disclosure: Summer And Music is an advertiser of the staging-live.lbpost.com.