By Kate Kimmel
The soulful sounds of Jacksonville-based band Str8-Up filled the streets of Fernandina Beach last night during Sounds on Centre.
While attendance was lower than usual due to the sweltering heat, over 100 audience members still gathered to enjoy the show. Lead singers Sharris Fransisco and Eric Witherspoon energized the crowd, performing hits across genres, including CHIC’s “Le Freak,” Barry White’s “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe,” and DNCE’s “Cake by the Ocean.”
The best moments of the evening unfolded on the dance floor. A father and daughter shared a joyful moment, dancing hand in hand. An older sister convinced her shy younger brother to join her on the floor, while a little boy spun his sister around in laughter.
The fun didn’t stop there. Other highlights included a woman with a bubble gun sending bubbles floating into the sky, and the Fernandina Pirates Club passing out beaded necklaces to concertgoers.
But nothing compared to what unfolded during the final song. With a smile, Fransisco called out to the crowd, “I’m going to need some audience participation for this one. This is the Love Train, and I definitely feel like the world needs that right now. Love. Love. Love.”
The band kicked into “Love Train” by the O’Jays, and a group of three women led the charge, forming a line and marching in front of the stage. Soon, the dance floor, which had been mostly empty throughout the evening, was packed. Community members, young and old, eagerly joined in to form the “love train.”
The energy soared as people from all walks of life came together to celebrate. With smiles all around, it was clear that despite the heat, the night had been a resounding success.
Str8-Up’s performance kept the spirit of the night alive, and as attendees departed Sounds on Centre, they did so with big smiles and high spirits, thankful for a memorable evening of music and community.
kkimmel@nassaunewsline.net
























