Grammy-winning Kool & The Gang coming to High Point Market

HIGH POINT — The High Point Market Authority (HPMA) is bringin the American funk, soul and R&B group Kool and & The Gang to the High Point Market for the Sunday evening concert on Apr. 26.

The group, which has received two  Grammy awards, seven American Music Awards and a display in the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of African American History, will be performing at the at the Center Stage venue at High Point Market.

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“We’re delighted to welcome Kool & The Gang to the main stage at spring market,” said Tammy Covington, HPMA president and CEO. “Market guests are in for a treat with this night of entertainment from an iconic group.” 

Kool & The Gang produced early hits such as “Jungle Boogie” and “Summer Madness,” as well as recognizable tunes such as “Get Down On It” and “Celebration.”

With a 50th anniversary celebration in 2019, Kool & The Gang‘s accolades also include a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and an induction into the Library of Congress National Recording Registry for the timeless classic, “Celebration.”

In 1964, Ronald Bell and his brother, Robert “Kool” Bell, joined Jersey City neighborhood friends Robert “Spike” Mickens, Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas, Ricky Westfield, George Brown, and Charles Smith to create a unique musical blend of jazz, soul and funk. At first calling themselves the Jazziacs, the band went through various names – The New Dimensions, The Soul Town Band, Kool & the Flames – before settling on their famous moniker. Kool & the Gang officially launched in 1969. 

In partnership with HPMA, participating sponsors include High Point Market exhibitors Schonbek and Varaluz.

A valid Spring 2026 Market pass is required for admission to the Center Stage area located between the Showplace building and the Transportation Terminal. Due to limited capacity, entry will be permitted on a first-come, first-served basis. Early entry for buyers begins at 6:15 p.m. For all other passholders, doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for the 7 p.m. concert. Complimentary food and beverages will be provided. Guests under the age of 15 will not be admitted. 

Market registration is offered at no charge to qualified U.S. and international buyers — including retailers, dealers and professional interior designers — as well as to press, exhibitor representatives, and students. A registration fee applies to all other industry professionals. 

To learn more about Center Stage programming, visit the High Point Market website.