KBLX 2010 Holiday Concert Chaka Khan and special guest Chrisette Michele December 11, 2010

Say the name "Chaka" and most folks in the know instantly think of a woman who has made an indelible and lasting impression on the music scene of the past three decades. First, as the lead singer of the massively successful R&B, funk and pop band Rufus, then as a solo artist in her own right who has influenced an entire generation of female vocalists (think Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Ledisi, Maysa among others). Like Aretha, like Joni, like Tina, a first name will do. For there's only one Chaka, woman of fire, possessed of a powerhouse, unforgettably distinctive trademark vocal style who sings with unrelenting passion, honest emotion and authenticity; no matter what the song, you can count on Chaka to deliver with realness, every time.

Seldom has that been more evident than on the aptly-named FUNK THIS, in some ways a return to her musical roots with Rufus, a glorious collaboration with the super hit-making team of Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. It's the album that many a Chaka fan will instantly say they've been waiting for, a tough 'n' earthy showcase for the gritty, in-your-face sound that first attracted the solid and loyal audience that has been with Chaka "through the fire" (also the title of her autobiography), through the ups and downs and ins and outs of a career filled with accomplishment, achievement and, as she herself admits, its share of highs and lows.

The iconic singer says it best: "This album may remind people of my early Rufus albums because I'm in a similar 'soul space'. I've been on a little journey in the last few years, finding Yvette again," she notes, referring to her birth name. "I went through a period of being insecure. I'm walking a different path now. I've changed. This album is different from any other album I've recorded because it reflects what I'm about, who I am now."

Official Website: http://thewarfieldtheatre.com/eventdetail.php?id=29835