The Moods bring Motown to Oakbrook Terrace

Posted July 01, 2009 11:00 pm

By Amanda Luevano Daily Herald Staff

When the Moods first got together nearly 20 years ago, they set out to play music that would take Chicago audiences back to the soulful era of Motown.

Initially, the band concentrated solely on songs, covering hits from popular artists such as the Temptations and Barry White. Before long, though, they were incorporating retro costumes and choreography, turning simple performances into energetic and engaging shows.

This Fourth of July, the Moods will bring their act to Oakbrook Terrace for the city's annual Independence Day celebration at Terrace View Park at the corner of Route 83 and 22nd Street.

"With an event like this, we want to bring back memories from the '60s and '70s with old-school music," said Moods bandleader Maurice Rayford.

The Moods were selected in March as the featured musical act by the Oakbrook Terrace City Council. Rayford said he believes he and bandmates Ollie Bolds, Bernard Mixon and Clifford Frazier were likely chosen because of their universal appeal.

"Everybody likes Motown, and the way we do it is like the original artists" he said. "Plus, we typically include a lot of audience participation, which people like."

Besides making sure Oakbrook Terrace residents enjoy their July 4, Rayford said he looks forward to bringing multiple generations together through the sounds of Motown.

"What you see at these types of events are parents and grandparents introducing kids to this music for the first time," he said. "It's a good feeling to be part of something like that."

The city's Independence Day festivities begin at noon with a parade that runs from Home Depot, 17W734 22nd St., to the park.

From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., guests with meal tickets will be treated to a barbecue picnic catered by Uncle Bub's. Though food is usually complimentary, special events coordinator Lori Dvorak said budget constraints have forced the city to charge nonresidents $5 for tickets. Residents still eat for free, but also need tickets.

"The picnic is a big tradition, but you must have meal tickets before Saturday," Dvorak said. "They will not be available at the event."

During the picnic, kids will be able to enjoy rides, face painters and balloon artists.

This year, the 5 p.m. bingo game will be open to Oakbrook Terrace residents only. Those interested must be at least 18 and have an I.D. with proof of residence.

The Moods take the stage at 8 p.m., followed by a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Oakbrook Terrace Fourth of July When: Parade at noon; picnic and rides 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; bingo 5 p.m.; concert 8 p.m.; fireworks 9:30 p.m. Where: Terrace View Park, at corner of Route 83 and 22nd Street Cost: Free. Food tickets are required and free for residents, $5 nonresidents Tickets: Must be purchased by today at Oakbrook Terrace City Hall, 17W275 Butterfield Road Info: (630) 941-8300 or <a href="http://www.oakbrookterrace.net" target="new">www.oakbrookterrace.net</a>

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