The University Settlement Homecoming Dance that takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, at Sokol National Hall will feature band leader Lou Ragland, a guy with deep roots in Cleveland’s soul and R&B scene.

Years ago, Ragland worked with the O’Jays and has recorded in various formats with all sorts of Cleveland soul groups including his own bands Hot Chocolate, Seven Miles High and Volcanic Eruption.

Ragland’s first single, “Never Let Me Go/Party at Lester’s,” was recorded locally in 1960 at Boddie Recording Studio on Union Ave. and released on the Way Out label in 1961.

Besides recording for numerous local labels, Ragland also laid down singles for Warner Brothers. Before he became the O’Jays road manager in 1967, he was the only African-American in the Terry Knight Revue, and he played guitar alongside Cleveland saxophonist Ernie Krivda.

Other guests who’ll perform at the show and play with Ragland include Phil Coghill (True Movement, Avatar), Art Blakey (the Hesitations) and Harvey Hall (Harvey and the Phenomenals, the Fabulous Flames).

Actor Peter Lawson Jones will serve as emcee for the event, and tickets cost $25.

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This article appears in May 1-7, 2019.

Jeff has been covering the Cleveland music scene for more than 25 years now. On a regular basis, he tries to talk to whatever big acts are coming through town. And if you're in a local band that he needs to hear, email him at jniesel@clevescene.com.

One reply on “An Ensemble of Cleveland Soul Stars to Perform at the University Settlement’s Upcoming Homecoming Dance”

  1. What a display of diversity. Funny how that diversity thing disappears for certain events.

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