Larry Dodson’s Bar-Kays set to Perform at first-ever ‘Fool In Love Fest’ in Los Angeles this weekend

Memphis music legend Larry Dodson has a hard time sitting still, even in so-called “retirement.”

After retiring from his nearly 50-year career as lead singer of The Bar-Kays in 2017, Dodson launched a solo career in 2019, and has continued to perform into his 70s with his band, “Larry Dodson’s Bar-Kays.”

And now, he’s one of a stunning array of classic R&B and Soul Music acts to kick off the first ever “Fool In Love Fest” at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on August 31, 2024. Named after Ike & Tina Turner’s 1960 debut single “A Fool In Love,” aims to celebrate the timeless sounds of pop, soul, funk, and R&B, featuring a lineup of legendary artists from the ’60s, ’70s, and beyond.

The event will be headlined by icons Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, who famously collaborated on the hit “Endless Love.” The festival’s lineup also includes renowned performers such as Santana, Al Green, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, The Isley Brothers, and more.

“That’s an iconic concert,” Dodson said from his Memphis home in early August. “It’ll be right up there with WattStax — maybe one of the two biggest concerts we’ve ever played. It’s huge, and it will be impactful. The footage will circulate for a while, and it’ll really help the group.”

Now 73, Dodson reflected on his musical journey, especially the early years.

“I’ve always been interested in music,” Dodson said. “I remember a group I actually started called the Temprees. It was a vocal group that began in high school.

“Music has always been in my soul,” he continued. “It’s something I’ve always been inspired to do. In 1970, I was asked to join the Bar-Kays and become the only singer the band has ever had in its history—30 albums ago.”

And while other music trends have emerged in that time, Dodson said that the West Coast always shows love for classic soul music.

“They have a big appreciation for funk and R&B music. We do really well out there,” he said. “They love old school and funk music, and we’re received really well.”

Dodson is also looking forward to potentially reaching a new, younger audience:

“This will be 60 years for the Bar-Kays, and there are a lot of new fans who’ve come to know us,” he said. “With that many people at the concert, there will probably be a lot of young kids out there. We may pick up some new fans!”