Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts | Detroit MI
AWB's Funk Finale Tour
There are moments when you realize you’re witnessing the end of an era, and October 5th at Detroit’s Music Hall was one of those moments. Average White Band, the legendary funk and soul group, is currently on their Funk Finale Farewell Tour, and as the name suggests, this is the final bow for one of the most iconic bands in music. As a fan who’s seen them three times in concert and listened to their music most of my life, it felt bittersweet to know this would be the last time I’d get to groove along live with them, and I’m sure the band is feeling it too.
While only two original members, Alan Gorrie and Owen “Onnie” McIntyre, remain, let me tell you—the current lineup is fire. The chemistry, the energy…it’s all still there. From the moment the lights dimmed, and the first notes rang out, you could feel the excitement in the air. No opening act was needed because AWB was more than ready to give their all and take us on a journey through their 52 years of making music. The crowd was excited with anticipation, especially a couple of super-hyped fans near me, sharing their love for AWB like lifelong friends. We were eagerly awaiting the familiar grooves that would soon flood the venue.
The setlist? Oh, it was everything you could hope for. They played their classics, the ones that made us all fall in love with their smooth yet funky sound: “Pick Up the Pieces,” “Cut the Cake,” “A Love of Your Own,” “School Boy Crush,” “If I Ever Lose This Heaven,” “Work to Do,” “Whatcha Gonna Do for Me,” “Person to Person,” and more!
While the band’s musicianship is top-tier, let’s talk about the lead vocals for a minute. Brent Carter, who’s been with AWB for over a decade, is the voice of the band and he killed it on “Cloudy”. His vocal delivery was absolutely flawless and packed with emotion, taking the song to another level. The guys were on stage for a solid hour and 45 minutes without a break! No one was holding back. They seemed to be giving us every ounce of their energy, determined to make sure that their finale is nothing short of extraordinary.
As this final tour wraps up, one thing is for sure: Average White Band isn’t going out quietly. They’re leaving their mark with a fun, engaging show that celebrates their music and legacy. I’m so glad I got to see them again, even if it was with a touch of sadness knowing it’s the last time.
I wish the band all the best as they embark on their next chapters! You’ve given us a lifetime, and for that, we’ll always be grateful.
