Wilson Phillips will headline Siskin Children’s Institute’s StarNight 2013 on Saturday, Sept. 7, at the Chattanooga Convention Center. The annual gala will benefit children with special needs and their families served by the Institute.
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Carnie and Wendy Wilson, daughters of The Beach Boys’ founder Brian Wilson, and Chynna Phillips, daughter of The Mamas and The Papas’ John and Michelle Phillips, launched their own musical careers in 1990 as Wilson Phillips. Their self-titled debut album was an instant smash with the hit singles “Hold On,” “Impulsive,” and “Release Me,” driving worldwide sales past the ten million copies mark. Known for their beautiful harmonies and outstanding live performances, the group followed up in 1992 with the platinum Shadows And Light, which yielded three more pop hits.
As 1992 came to a close, Wilson Phillips had more than lived up to their musical pedigree with five Grammy Award nominations, two American Music Award nominations and a Billboard Music Award win. Following the release of Shadows And Light, the trio pursued a series of solo recordings and television projects, with each continuing to enjoy tremendous success.
In 2004 the group released California, an album of California-inspired cover songs, and in 2010 the trio reunited with their original Wilson Phillips producer for their first-ever holiday album, Christmas in Harmony. The album contained the single, “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day,” and brought the group back together in full swing 20 years after their breakthrough album. Wilson Phillips’ new studio album, Dedicated, was released in 2012 and is a music lover’s dream - a full disc containing covers of legendary songs by The Beach Boys and The Mamas and the Papas.
Originating 51 years ago as a fundraiser for the Siskin Memorial Foundation’s 365 Club, StarNight has evolved into a premier black-tie event. This late summer occasion provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the progress and successes of children of all abilities. StarNight is the Institute’s largest annual fundraiser and benefits children with special needs through four areas of focus: education, outreach, developmental pediatric health care and research.
Through the years, StarNight has featured performers like Jim Nabors, Dinah Shore, Connie Francis and Tony Bennett, who graced the StarNight stage through the 60s to modern acts like Hootie and the Blowfish, LeAnn Rimes, Sugarland, Boyz II Men, Trisha Yearwood and Kenny Rogers.
“We couldn’t be happier about this year’s entertainment,” said StarNight Co-chairs Paul and Sandy Loftin. “Wilson Phillips brings a rich history of classic songs to the table that people will recognize and want to sing along to.” The Loftins are long-time supporters of the Institute and friends of the Siskin family. Mr. Liftin serves on the Institute board of directors.
StarNight opens with a cocktail reception, beginning at 6 p.m., and a formal dinner followed by Wilson Phillips’ performance with an intimate, small venue feel. An after party with dancing and live DJ rounds out the night.
Guests can attend the full black-tie gala, including cocktail reception, dinner, dessert, musical performance and the after party, for $250 per person. Eight-person tables start at $2,000. For tickets, visit www.siskin.org/starnight or call 648-1707.