The Kiwanis Club of Cape Girardeau is hosting its annual '50s and '60s rock and roll dance party from 8 p.m. to midnight today at the Arena Building.
"The music from the '50s and '60s was just the most fun," said Fred Horrell, event organizer and Kiwanis member. "The melodies caught you and it had the beat to it. Folks usually stay all night and have a heck of a good time."
Headlining the event for more than 12 years, Bruce "Hey Baby" Channel will perform his crowd favorite hit songs, including "Hey Baby," "Stand Up" and "Party Time," among others. Channel's "Hey Baby" hit No. 1 in the U.S. in March 1962 for three weeks.
Aside from his 1962 hit, Channel has written many award-winning songs in the 1970s and '80s. Channel will perform with The Decade Band, along with vocalist Kim Keele-Jasinski.
"I don't do much touring these days, but we do for the people we like," Channel said of his history of performing at the Kiwanis dance. "I couldn't praise those people enough."
Channel's relationship with Horrell goes back to their days of performing music together with the Bill Black Combo in the 1960s. "Fred's still a great musician and producer," Channel said.
Though the dance doesn't raise as much money as the Kiwanis Club's Monday night bingo, it is a high-spirited way to draw additional resources and provide entertainment for community families. Proceeds will go to youth activities and local interests, Horrell said.
"We give away close to $100,000 every year," Horrell said. In previous years, the Kiwanis Club has maintained public park facilities, provided a night-vision camera to the fire department and provided other aid directed toward youth development. Annually, the Kiwanis Club gives away 25 to 30 college scholarships.
Along with the live music, there will be prizes for a dance and costume competition. In addition, owners of '50s and '60s era cars and motorcycles are invited to meet at 6 p.m. in front of the Arena Building for a short cruise through town.
Pertinent address:
401 Kiwanis Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO
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