WAR + DJ Ole Sollied

The year was 1969. A group of kids from Long Beach, California had the guts to call themselves WAR, at a time when peace was the slogan during the massive Vietnam protests in America. Today, now that politics is once again loudly present in pop music, War’s message sounds burning with relevance. Their music reflects life on the streets, tackles social issues, and carries a lasting message of unity and connection.

Success came quickly. With songs like “Low Rider,” “The Cisco Kid,” “Spill the Wine” (with Eric Burdon of The Animals, who helped found the band), and “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”, War broke through worldwide. The band soon became known for its unique mix of funk, soul, jazz, rock, Latin, and rhythm and blues, driven by socially conscious lyrics.

Over the years, War has had a lasting influence on funk, hip-hop, and pop music. Their songs are still sampled and played today, and the band has continued performing without interruption—from intimate clubs to major festivals, including North Sea Jazz. What still makes War special is their strong emphasis on groove, horns, percussion, and musical diversity, as well as their multicultural lineup—something quite unique at the time. And, of course, their political edge.

A living legend on our stage, and music that has lost none of its shine: WAR.

“Our instruments and voices became our weapons of choice and the songs our ammunition. We spoke out against racism, hunger, gangs, crimes, and turf wars, as we embraced all people with hope and the spirit of brotherhood. It’s just as apropos today.” — War

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DJ Ole Sollied will tie the evening together and serve as your host for this special concert. An all-round non-DJ who brings out his richly stocked record crates (curver boxes!) once every quarter. He still swears by Aretha Franklin’s Rocksteady. Must be a Son of a Preacher Man!

For fans of James Brown, Curtis Mayfield, Earth, Wind & Fire