Honoring fathers, mentors and the music that shaped a generation

Support, celebration and a healthy dose of nostalgia were on display at An Evening with Jeffrey Osborne, presented by the ETA Boule Foundation as part of its 8th Annual Salute to Fathers and Mentors. Held at the historic Sheldon Concert Hall in Grand Center, fathers, sons and the women who support them gathered ahead of Father’s Day to honor the dedication of the men in their lives.

“The ETA Boule Foundation celebrates 10 years of honoring fathers, father figures and mentors who have shaped our lives,” said chairman Darryl Jones. “The men who have encouraged us, guided us, challenged us and helped open doors for those going behind them.”

Jones noted that the foundation remains rooted in its mission to support initiatives that benefit Black males, their families and their communities. Members volunteer with organizations including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri, the Incarnate Word Foundation, the Today and Tomorrow Educational Foundation, BJC Children’s Hospital, Gateway to Medicine and Lincoln University.

Since its inception a decade ago, the foundation has donated $300,000 in educational assistance to more than 80 St. Louis students and contributed $150,000 to youth, family and health organizations. Members also give up to $1,500 individually as a demonstration of personal commitment. In addition, more than $150,000 has been donated to community relief efforts, including support during the COVID-19 pandemic and following last year’s May 16 tornado. The Salute to Fathers and Mentors serves as both a celebration and a fundraiser, with attendees raising an additional $5,000 last year.

“This celebration gives us an opportunity to use this platform for a great purpose,” Jones said. “Raising funds, supporting academic excellence and helping create opportunities for deserving students to continue their educational journey.” The audience was then introduced to the scholarship recipients — Harris-Stowe State University students pursuing fields ranging from biology and communication to secondary education and business administration.

Throughout the year, these young men — along with their fathers and mentors — work to build a world where representation, equity and prestige can coexist. This evening offered a chance to pause and celebrate that progress.

The program opened with comedian and radio host Darius Bradford, best known for his appearances on The Ricky Smiley Morning Show. Bradford took the audience back to growing up in the 1980s, when fast food was actually fast and cousins often felt like siblings. He joked about house phones connecting entire families at once and how pay phones limited how often someone could reach you — unlike today’s cell phones that ring day and night.

He closed his set with a nostalgic roll call, inviting attendees to share their name, zodiac sign and, of course, their high school — a moment that quickly energized the room.

With the audience fully warmed up, Jeffrey Osborne emerged from the back of the hall wearing an indigo-blue suit and performing L.T.D.’s “We Party Hearty.” Singing as he made his way to the stage, he was joined by a full band and two background vocalists. He moved into “Stranger,” prompting the crowd to sing along from the opening chords.

The energy rose as the band launched into “Don’t You Get So Mad,” filling the room with a warm glow and a groovy bass line. Osborne kept the momentum with “Eenie Meenie,” “Holding On” and “Stay With Me Tonight.”

He shifted the mood with romantic ballads including “We’re Going All the Way,” “On the Wings of Love” and “We Both Deserve Each Other.” Couples slow danced in the aisles while others sang along, savoring a rare evening of slow jams.

With the crowd already on its feet, Osborne moved into “You Should Be Mine (The Woo Woo Song).” The audience recognized it instantly. He stepped offstage to hand the microphone to several attendees, including one man celebrating his 35th wedding anniversary who serenaded his wife. St. Louis jazz legend Denise Thimes also took a turn, showcasing the voice that has made her a local favorite.

Osborne closed with “(Every Time I Turn Around) Back in Love Again,” sending the room into full celebration. Fans danced, clapped and sang along as the song’s bright rhythm filled the hall, creating a moment of joy and release.

An Evening with Jeffrey Osborne served as a heartfelt tribute to fathers, mentors and the communities they help build. Through music, laughter and shared memories, the event offered families a chance to honor the men who guide them and reflect on the lasting impact of mentorship and love.

Living It content is produced with funding by the ARPA for the Arts grants program in partnership with the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis and the Community Development Administration.

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