War Live in Concert September 24, 2011

Freewheeling WAR mixed rock, jazz, and soul influences into a spicy stew throughout the '70s, resulting in a series of R&B and pop hits sporting funky melodies and politically aware messages.

Formed in Long Beach in 1969, the large combo initially served as rocker Eric Burdon's group, backing the ex-Animal on his 1970 million-seller "Spill the Wine." Bidding Burdon adieu, the band signed with United Artists in 1971 and enjoyed its first smash the next year with "Slippin' into Darkness." Tapping into a sizzling, horn-fueled rock/soul synthesis, "The World Is a Ghetto," "The Cisco Kid" and "Why Can't We Be Friends?" all went gold during the mid-'70s. Despite numerous personnel and label changes, WAR remained eminent throughout the '80s.

In the early '90s, WAR experienced a revival, partially due to the fact that all of their albums were reissued. But the group was also acknowledged as a primary influence on contemporary R&B and hip-hop. WAR returned to recording in 1994 capitalize on their new-found popularity.

Official Website: http://www.visit-prescott.com/details/1141-war.html