Personality: The Lloyd Price Musical

When you combine history, music, and so much culture you get an explosive show of what it means to work hard, get knocked down and get back up again! Lloyd Price is a musical genius who has his sound stolen while becoming the first “Teen Idol.”

History of Lloyd Price

He’s known for songs like “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” and “Personality” but there’s always a story behind the music. Long before we started giving Artist their due, Artist like Lloyd Price did the work behind the scenes to create and more without ever being properly compensated or acknowledged. Saint Aubyn plays Lloyd Price (present day) stated that everyone knew the songs and now they can know the man! Being seen in a time when artistry especially Black Artist voices was stifled by the music industry.

Lloyd Price endured a lot. His first wife became an alcoholic and died by an accident. He had to go fight in the Korean War for America. Black men were drafted to die and fight in a war while they had no rights. Rights like going to the bathroom or eating in restaurants were forbidden while many died defending. How can they fight for a country who didn’t even see them as human?

Logan and Friendships

Everyone needs a friend that they can count on especially when the world is ready to strip you of your basic human rights. Logan did right by Lloyd by being his partner in music and life. He unfortunately died at the club that Lloyd and he made. Logan understood the business. He also knew how many bad deals were done behind the scenes. Everyone with their hand out while also cheating you just to gain.

Young Lloyd

I was star-stuck by both Logans but young Lloyd played by Nathaniel Washington was mesmerizing. Nathaniel’s ability to understand and convey the strong emotions of being seen was captivating. By the way every singer and performer in this production was enchanting.

Musical Masterpiece

If you love good music and learning more about what Black artist went through this is your production. I was so impressed and I know you will too. Come prepared to sing along, clap, and move. I knew from the performance of “Up above my head I hear music in the air” that this was going to be a treat. Since I haven’t been in a traditional church in so long this was church for me. It felt safe and felt like home.

Relaxed Performances

I attended the Relaxed Performance and I loved it. It’s a no shush performance and geared for patrons who may have ADD, ADHD and other lifestyles that need sensory adjustments and more. They have a station for eye and ear coverings. Also available are fidgets toys. You’re free to roam, talk and whatever you need to show up as your fullest self. I personally will go back to the relaxed performance again.

Personality: The Lloyd Price Musical is in production until April 3rd. It’s a must see on every level. Thank you to the cast and staff of People’s Light for their hospitality. A special thank you to Carrie Gorn. Tickets are available now.

People’s Light is located at 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern, PA 19355.

Personality is based upon a book by B, Jeffery Madoff with Lloyd Price and Directed by Sheldon Epps.