Funky Nights in Dover: What the Funk Lights Up the Schwartz Center

 

Thanks to an invitation by my Soror, Councilwoman Corrine Wilson Upshur, I was invited to attend a Summer Jazz Concert in Dover.

 

 

 

 

On Sunday, August 3rd, the soul of jazz and funk pulsed through the historic Schwartz Center for the Arts in Dover, Delaware. Sponsored by Delaware State University, the evening featured the powerhouse band What the Funk, recently voted Best of Delaware 2025—and they delivered a performance that had the entire theater buzzing with excitement.

From the first downbeat, it was clear this wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration. The full house crowd was on their feet, dancing in the aisles, and grooving at the front of the stage. The electric slide made an appearance, and smiles were everywhere. It was one of those rare nights where music, movement, and community came together in perfect harmony.

 

🎶 Meet the Band Behind the Magic

What the Funk isn’t just a name—it’s a promise. This talented ensemble brought serious heat to the stage, blending jazz, funk, and soul with precision and passion. Here’s the lineup that made it all happen:

• 🎸 Bob Reuther – Guitar & Vocals
• 🎹 Dan Long – Keyboards
• 🥁 Glenn Walker – Drums
• 🎸 Tony Cappella – Bass
• 🎷 Alan Yanziak – Saxophone
• 🎺 Lloyd Walton – Trumpet
• 🎤 Michelle Hover – Lead Vocals

Their setlist included high-energy tracks from legends like James Brown and Tower of Power, and each musician brought their own flavor to the mix. The horn section was tight and punchy, the rhythm section was locked in, and the solos? Absolutely fire.  Make sure you check out my TikTok page to hear some of the tunes.

 

 

🌟 A Show-Stopping Moment

One of the most unforgettable highlights of the night came when Michelle Hover took center stage for a soul-stirring rendition of “Man in the Mirror” by the late Michael Jackson. Her vocals were rich, emotional, and powerful—leaving the audience in awe. You could feel the energy shift as everyone leaned in, captivated by her performance. It was a moment of reflection, inspiration, and pure artistry.

 

🏛️ Small-Town Stage, Big-Time Talent

The Schwartz Center, with its intimate charm and rich acoustics, was the perfect venue for this kind of magic. Nestled in downtown Dover, it’s a cultural gem that continues to showcase the incredible talent thriving in our small but mighty state.

Thanks to Delaware State University’s sponsorship, this event reminded us that Delaware’s arts scene is alive and well—and you don’t need to travel far to experience world-class entertainment.

🥁 More Than Just a Concert

This wasn’t just about music—it was about connection. It was about dancing with strangers who felt like friends, singing along to songs that shaped our youth, and celebrating the joy of being present in the moment.

 

 

💬 Let’s Keep the Funk Going!

Were you there? Have you danced the electric slide at a Delaware concert lately? Drop a comment below and share your favorite live music moment or local band—we love shining a spotlight on the talent that keeps the First State funky.