D’Radoes Steel Orchestra, Robert Greenidge, Roberta Flack and Others pay Tribute to Ralph MacDonald

by A. Howard

D’Radoes Steel Orchestra and Robert Greenidge
(standing at center in black shirt)

Connecticut, USA - If you had to ask the question “Where is the Love,” the answer last Monday night would be: The Palace in Stamford, where the musical community came out once more in full force to pay tribute to percussionist Ralph MacDonald, a man whose music many have heard, even if they didn’t know he was responsible for it.

On January 16, 2012, the audience at The Palace (the Stamford Center for the Arts) was treated to musical selections from Robert Greenidge, Jimmy Buffett, Roberta Flack, Valerie Simpson, renowned flautist Bobbi Humphrey, and to represent for steelband, Brooklyn’s D’Radoes Steel Orchestra.

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D’Radoes offered excellent and well-received performances of Cher’s “Believe” and Dennis Edwards’ “Don’t Look any Further” to an audience who was reminded of Ralph’s appreciation for the Desperadoes, Despers USA and D’Radoes family by Robert Greenidge.

Greenidge’s solos during each number were magnificent and a testament to how far the steelpan instrument has been taken in the hands of a master.

An outpouring of affection was shown to Atiba MacDonald, Ralph’s lovely daughter while musicians reminisced with the audience about all that her father, Ralph, had given to us; and most of all, we were reminded to try to emulate the love of music, self, and each other that the percussionist embodied.

Note: Donations in Ralph’s name can be made to the Bennett Cancer Center in Stamford and the Buster Bryant Youth Organization (part of the Children’s Aid Society in Harlem)