Kamasi Washington has released a new, feature-length concert documentary, Kamasi Washington Live At The Apollo Theater. The Amazon Music film, directed by Michael Garber, highlights Washington’s headlining show at Harlem, New York’s Apollo Theater on February 23rd, 2019. Kamasi Washington Live At The Apollo Theater is now streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
The February 23rd show saw Washington play material from his various albums, including The Epic, Harmony of Difference, and Heaven and Earth. His band, The Next Step, joined him alongside special guests DJ Battlecat and Dwight Trible.
Kamasi Washington Live At The Apollo Theater – Official Trailer
[Video: KamasiWashington]
Aside from concert footage, the Kamasi Washington Live At The Apollo Theater documentary also provides behind-the-scenes footage of Washington visiting local Harlem landmarks and preparing for the show ahead of his performance at the historic theater. In a statement, Washington noted,
Playing at the Apollo Theater is one of the greatest honors that a musician can have. When I walked down 125th Street from my hotel in Harlem and saw my name on the marquee I almost couldn’t believe it. To be a part of that prestigious group of brilliant musical minds was truly humbling for me. To say that night was one of the most amazingly special nights of my life is a grave understatement. I’m so happy and thankful to be able to share this moment with people all over the world. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
Additionally, Kamasi Washington has released a video of the group’s rendition “Street Fighter Mas”, pulled directly from the documentary. The jazz number is highlighted by vocal harmonies, a far-reaching trombone solo by Ryan Porter, saxophone leads by Washington, and a lengthy keyboard solo by Cameron Graves.
Watch Kamasi Washington perform “Street Fighter Mas” at the Apollo below.
Kamasi Washington – “Street Fighter Mas” – 2/29/19
[Video: KamasiWashington]
Washington’s North American tour kicks off next week at The Underground in Charlotte, NC on February 14th. Shows up and down the East Coast will lead him west, finishing off with four dates in Texas this March. Scroll down for a detailed list of tour dates and click here for tickets.