Fans of the classic 1983 film The Big Chill can relive its music and themes through a live performance titled The Big Chillout. This exciting event celebrates the iconic soundtrack that played a pivotal role in reviving Motown Records and introducing its classic hits to a new generation.
The movie, which features a star-studded cast including Glenn Close, Tom Berenger, William Hurt, and Kevin Kline, revolves around a group of college friends who reunite for a funeral. Its opening scene, set to Marvin Gaye‘s “I Heard It Through The Grapevine,” is particularly memorable and illustrates the film’s deep connection to the music of the 1960s.
A Celebration of Motown’s Legacy
The Big Chillout promises an engaging experience, featuring songs from legendary artists such as The Temptations, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and the Rolling Stones. The show is not merely a tribute; it tells the story of a musical movement that united different generations.
The performance is led by powerhouse vocalists Judah Kelly and Asabi Goodman, supported by an eight-piece live band. Kelly, known for his soulful voice, gained fame after winning The Voice Australia in 2017. His debut album, Count On Me, topped the ARIA Country Albums chart, and his follow-up, Real Good Time, reached No. 2 on iTunes Country Albums.
Goodman, with a versatile voice that spans classical, pop, jazz, blues, RnB, and musical theatre, has starred in productions like Chicago and Hairspray in both Australia and the United States. She also appeared in the 2022 film Elvis directed by Baz Luhrmann.
The Impact of The Big Chill
Reflecting on the cultural significance of The Big Chill, Goodman shared her personal connection to the film. “I remember when The Big Chill first came out in theatres. I was too young to see it, but my parents really loved the movie and sang the songs. The movie truly had an impact on our lives,” she stated.
Kelly also expressed his admiration for the music that came from Motown. “When I was 12, I discovered country music, which I primarily focus on now. However, when I learned that the soundtrack played a role in saving Motown Records, I was excited to be part of this show,” he explained.
The show’s producer, Rebecca Muino, highlighted the narrative aspect of the performance. “Asabi does a bit of narration about the history of some of the songs and their relationships with the artists and composers,” she explained. This storytelling element enriches the audience’s understanding of the music that shaped an era.
Judah noted the profound impact of The Big Chill on the music industry. “In 1983, Motown Records was on the brink of bankruptcy. Before The Big Chill, movies typically used re-recordings of songs. This soundtrack featured the original recordings, achieving six-times platinum status and staying on the charts for 161 weeks,” he remarked.
The success of the film’s soundtrack changed the advertising landscape, with companies shifting from creating jingles to licensing original recordings. This shift marked a resurgence for Motown Records and solidified the cultural importance of the music featured in the film.
As audiences prepare to experience The Big Chillout, they can expect a vibrant celebration of music that not only entertains but also educates, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the powerful tunes that defined a generation.
Join the movement and immerse yourself in the sound of an era that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
