Kool & The Gang Play Rivers; Pitt Football Opener vs. UMass; Reggae at Riverview (Sat., 9/4/21)

1) You can definitely “Get Down On It” with Kool & the Gang in concert. With hits like “Celebration,” “Misled,” and  “Fresh,” Kool & The Gang are one of the premier funk bands of the 1970’s and ’80s. “Celebration” was added to the Library of Congress National Recording registry in 2020.  The group was started in the 1960s by Robert “Kool” Bell and his brother Ronald. The Gang’s first chart success came with 1973’s Wild and Peaceful album that spun off the hits “Jungle Boogie” and “Hollywood Swinging.” Kool & the Gang continued to chart in the ensuing decades, and they’ll be at Rivers Casino in the event center. The group has a new album out this year, Perfect Union. Unfortunately, Kool & The Gang has lost two of its original members in the past two years—Ronald Bell and Dennis “D.T.” Thomas, but the show must go on and it will, at Rivers. 7 p.m. Sold out. 777 Casino Dr., North Shore. (R.H.)

Pitt quarterback Kenny Pickett in action against Virginia Tech in 2020. (photo: Pitt Athletics)

2) With the smell of fantastic ribs wafting around the North Shore for the Heinz Field Kickoff and Rib Fest, we know that the time is near for the Pitt Football opener. Today Coach Narduzzi’s squad takes on UMass in a 4 p.m. game. One of the highlights is the return of Pitt’s experienced quarterback Kenny Pickett to command the offense. A bevy of injuries last season hampered the Panthers fight for the ACC Coastal Division title. Next up for Pitt is the Johnny Majors Classic at Tennessee on September 11. 100 Art Rooney Ave.

Kool & the Gang performing at Leverkusener Jazztage in Germany in 2017. (photo: Andreas Lawen, Fotandi and Wikipedia)

3) Reggae at Riverview is Happening today with several talented reggae bands. On the bill are Truth & Rites, who just played at VegFest, Kev Reason, Lord Dubious and Friends. Food will be available by Jamaica Faraway Kitchen. Noon to 9 p.m. Valley Refuge Shelter, Riverview Park.

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