By JESSICA HINES

 

NILES, Mich. — It doesn’t matter whether he’s playing in a full coliseum or on the street corner where it all began, for Billy Shelton it’s all about making people happy. And that’s exactly what he plans to do, decades after The Spaniels, one of the most revered 1950s rhythm and blues groups, first made their debut at Kubiak’s Tavern just north of the Indiana-Michigan line.

Although Shelton is the group’s last surviving member, his modern-day Spaniels will return to what’s believed to be the oldest family-owned tavern in Michigan to perform on the very same stage as the original R&B legends.

The original Spaniels, including Thornton James “Pookie” Hudson, made their voices known with hits such as “Goodnite Sweetheart” that debuted in 1954 and peaked at number five on the R&B charts. Although much in the world has changed since their original hit, the 1933 origins of Kubiak’s and the rich harmonies of Shelton remain the same.

“When R&B music made its debut in the 1950s, it was a happy and prosperous time in America and I think when people hear those songs it takes them back to that place,” Shelton said.

But don’t think you have to be born in a different century to enjoy what The Spaniels will bring to Kubiak’s. Shelton said when younger generations hear his music for the first time they become hooked on the ‘no rules’ sound and style of the harmonies.

“Of all the music out there R&B is the most exciting because it’s the music of the streets – it is 100 percent American,” Shelton said.

According to Shelton, The Spaniels will play a little bit of everything during their time at Kubiak’s, including tribute songs from some of the biggest names in the industry such as James Brown and The Drifters.

At 82 years of age, Shelton has forged quite a legacy for himself including introduction into three music halls of fame — the Smithsonian Hall of Fame in Washington, D.C., the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in New York, and the Youngstown (Ohio) Hall of Fame. But the part he enjoys the most? The people he meets along the way.

“In the music industry you meet so many wonderful people – that’s really what has kept me going all these years is knowing there are people out there who truly enjoy what I’m doing,” Shelton said.

The Spaniels with Billy Shelton will perform at Kubiak’s Tavern on Sunday, Sept. 27. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door. Contact Jeff Roberts at (269) 240-5480 for more information.