Although he left the band 26 years ago, Willie Stewart will forever be associated with Third World. The veteran drummer will celebrate their legacy on April 1-2 during the 10th anniversary of his ‘Rhythms of Africa’ show.
Both shows take place at Miramar Cultural Center where the event was first held in 2010. In addition to the customary menu of African beats and guest artist Julian Marley, Stewart and his orchestra will salute Third World’s 50th anniversary in a segment titled ‘Love Will Always Be There’.
It will comprise renditions of the band’s finest moments. Stewart, who joined Third World in 1976, said the journey will be an experience for long-time fans and youngsters who have recently discovered their timeless songs. “It’s really something to look forward to. Third World was really a band ahead of its time and it is important we recognize that,” he said.
Stewart was a member of the classic Third World lineup that also included co-founders (guitarist) Stephen “Cat” Coore and keyboardist Ibo Cooper, bassist Richie Daley, percussionist Carrot Jarret and guitarist/lead vocalist Bunny Rugs.
He played on 13 of their albums including the impressive ‘96 Degrees in The Shade’, which was released in 1976; and ‘Journey to Addis’ which came out two years later. The latter contains ‘Now That we Found Love’, Third World’s biggest song.
