Top, the crowd dances to the sounds of Motown as Sho Tyme performs during Motown Fridays at Jerry?s Nugget, Jan. 11. Left, Thomas Smoth and Andre King of Sho Tyme perform. The Friday night Motown tribute features a different live band every week and attracts fans of all ages.Photos by JIM MILLER/VIEW
Top, the crowd dances to the sounds of Motown as Sho Tyme performs during Motown Fridays at Jerry?s Nugget, Jan. 11. Left, Thomas Smoth and Andre King of Sho Tyme perform. The Friday night Motown tribute features a different live band every week and attracts fans of all ages.Photos by JIM MILLER/VIEW
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The 1960s bred social and artistic freedoms, altering the landscape of American music with the arrival of artists like the Temptations, Marvin Gaye and the Supremes. It was a time of upheaval, reform, soulful lyrics and funky melodies.
Now, Las Vegas residents can relive the spirit of an American music era with Motown Friday Nights at Jerry's Nugget, 1821 Las Vegas Blvd. North.
"The show features one live band each Friday night," said Cindy Ferris, director of marketing and advertising. "We book the high-energy bands who can pull off the slow, moody tunes and the dance songs."
The program has grown since its premiere almost four years ago, with the intimate Royal Street Theatre being filled almost to capacity every Friday night.
"It can be hard to find a seat in here," Las Vegas resident John Millson said. "You have to get here early, unless you plan on spending the whole night on the dance floor."
According to Ferris, the crowd that frequents Motown Fridays is as eclectic as the set list.
"We have fans who remember when Motown was popular on the radio," Ferris said. "The younger crowd have picked up on it as a nostalgic, fun movement."
Las Vegas-based band Sho Tyme plays the theater two Fridays a month, and according to singer Andre King, Motown is a genre that lends itself to good times.
"You can't listen to this music and not smile and bop your head along," King said. "Even if you aren't a dancer, it makes you want to move."
Sho Tyme has been playing in various venues around the valley since 1999, including a daily gig at The Venetian's La Sena Lounge. The seven-member group works hard to ensure that the audience can feel and see its enthusiasm, working off the philosophy that 75 percent of the sale is presentation.
"We are enjoying every second on stage," band member "Marvelous" Marvin Valentine said. "I think it's a contagious cycle. We're having fun up there, and you can see it."
Motown Fridays begin at 10 p.m. Admission is $5, and there is a two-drink minimum. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
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