Europe-bound after a bittersweet gig in Newark

The celebration of James Brown orchestrated by Christian McBride at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center turned into a celebration for the late great Sharon Jones. Jones, who was originally supposed to be a part of the show, passed away in Augusta while it was happening. She was ably replaced by the great Nona Hendryx.

This week Fred flies to Athens to begin a brief European tour with his organ trio Generations, then will head to the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe for a public performance at the Ilojazz Festival. The trio will fly from Paris to join the New JBs and special guest Pee Wee Ellis in Guadeloupe as an enlarged configuration called the Fred Wesley International Soul Expansion Band.

The Europe dates are Dec. 2-5 at the Half Note in Athens, Dec. 6 at the Bayericher Hof in Munich, and Dec. 9 at the New Morning in Paris, where he'll help celebrate the storied club's 35th anniversary. Click here for tickets. On Dec. 8, Fred and the trio will hold a funk masterclass for Parisian musicians. Student slots can be reserved by calling Djamila at +33 (0) 660062355.

Enjoy these photos from Newark.

Nona Hendryx with Fred

Lee Fields, Mousey Thompson, Bettye LaVette and Fred

Pee Wee Ellis and Fred with longtime friend Greta Reed