Soul Train

25th June 2024

The Pantiles is set to host an electrifying night of music, dance and soul with the return of Soul Train to the iconic bandstand on 29th June. Save the date and prepare to groove to the sensational sounds of Vince Dunn and The Funky Express.

As an extension of our popular Live at The Pantiles series, Soul Train promises to deliver an unforgettable evening of live music, vibrant energy and community fun.

Meet Vince Dunn and The Funky Express

This weekend’s headliners, Vince Dunn and The Funky Express, are an eight-piece powerhouse renowned for their dynamic performances and impressive musical prowess. Comprising some of the UK’s most talented session musicians, the band seamlessly blends the infectious beats of soul and funk with timeless Disco, Motown and RnB classics. Their repertoire spans decades, taking audiences on a nostalgic journey through the late 60s to present-day dance floor anthems.

Vince Dunn, a veteran drummer with a rich musical background, leads the band. He has performed with numerous high-profile artists and is known for his impeccable timing, groove and ability to energise the crowd. The Funky Express, with their tight rhythm section, charismatic vocals and brass ensemble, is a testament to the enduring appeal of live soul music.

A Night to Remember

Soul Train at The Pantiles is more than just a concert; it’s an experience. From the moment the first note is played, you’ll be transported to a world where music and movement are designed to make you smile! The event kicks off at 7.30pm, and attendees are encouraged to book their tickets in advance to ensure they don’t miss out on this spectacular night.

Book your Tickets Now!

There is a £7.50 per person admission fee for Soul Train at The Pantiles. This is payable online in advance. This fee is applicable for event-only spectators, and for those dining in participating restaurants.

Online booking for tickets closes at 6pm on the same day as the event.

If you do not have a restaurant reservation and do not book for Soul Train at The Pantiles in advance, you will be required to pay at the door on the night. The admission fee for this is £10 per person.

Please note that tickets are non-refundable and not transferable.

Dining and Reservations

For those who wish to combine the musical feast with a culinary one, several participating restaurants offer the perfect setting for a tasty night out:

The Tunbridge Wells Hotel: 01892 530 501

Kirthon: 07592 271 151

La Casa Vecchia: 01892 544 700

Essence at The Pantiles: 01892 614411

These venues provide an ideal vantage point to enjoy the show, while enjoying a lip-licking evening meal.

Upcoming Soul Train Dates

If you can’t make it to this weekend’s event, don’t worry! Soul Train returns to The Pantiles on the last weekend of July and August. Each month, we bring a fresh lineup of bands dedicated to keeping the spirit of soul music alive.

The Legacy of Soul Music

Soul music originated in the United States during the 1950s and early 1960s. It combines elements of African-American gospel music, rhythm and blues, and jazz. Known for its emotional depth, soul music features powerful vocals, passionate lyrics, and a distinctive groove that gets people moving. Legends like Aretha Franklin, James Brown and Otis Redding are often credited with popularising the genre, which has continued to evolve and influence countless artists across generations.

The Funky Express’s setlist includes hits from these iconic artists, ensuring that both longtime fans and new listeners experience the rich history and vibrant energy that soul music offers.

Live at The Pantiles: More Than Just Music

While Soul Train is a highlight, don’t forget about our ongoing Live at The Pantiles series every Thursday. This weekly event showcases a variety of musical acts, from jazz and blues to rock and pop, providing a platform for both local talent and renowned performers. The series has become a staple of the Tunbridge Wells community, bringing people together to enjoy great music in a historic and picturesque setting.

Live at The Pantiles and Soul Train are proudly sponsored by Evelyn Partners, in association with Dandara and Thomson Snell & Passmore. Evelyn Partners, the UK’s leading integrated wealth management and professional services group, offers comprehensive wealth and tax management for both personal and business needs. With a rich history dating back to 1836, Evelyn Partners has been a cornerstone of financial expertise across Britain, Ireland and the Channel Islands. “We feel incredibly proud to be sponsoring Live at The Pantiles and Soul Train and are really excited to share these great evenings with our clients and team,” said Terry Shephard, Partner at Evelyn Partners. For more details about Evelyn Partners in Tunbridge Wells, visit evelyn.com/good-advice/evelyn-partners-in-tunbridge-wells.

Dandara, known for creating and building award-winning homes, combines innovative design with the highest standards of quality. Over the past 30 years, Dandara has been dedicated to providing exceptional service throughout the buying and moving journey, ensuring their homes enhance and complement their surroundings beautifully. Learn more at dandara.com. Thomson Snell & Passmore, the world’s oldest law firm, offers high-quality, intelligent legal advice across a wide range of practice areas, including corporate, real estate, family and more. With offices in Tunbridge Wells and Thames Gateway, they provide services throughout Kent, London, the South East and nationally. For more information about Thomson Snell & Passmore, visit ts-p.co.uk.

Join the Party!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the ultimate dance party experience this June. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of soul music or just looking for a fun night out, Soul Train at The Pantiles promises a night of fantastic music, dancing and community spirit. Book your tickets now, invite your friends, and get ready to dance the night away with Vince Dunn and The Funky Express.

For more information and to book your tickets, click here.