For everyone who grew up in the era of impromptu backyard cookouts and the Quiet Storm, Sunday's VERZUZ featuring The Isley Brothers and Earth, Wind, & Fire was for you.
Listen to your favorite Classic Hits now on Audacy
The two groups went hit for hit while sharing tidbits from the past and singing along to the other's music. Fun fact: The Isley Brothers are the first to "play hits from the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s," on the series, as pointed out by documentarian, King Williams. Host Steve Harvey could barely contain his own excitement while sitting between the living legends. Here are some of the highlights from last night's moment in R&B history.
1.The night kicked off with Ron Isley debuting a new look...
The soulful crooner was unrecognizable, at first. Several Twitter users expressed the same sentiment saying, "Y'all. I have been wondering where Ron was for a solid 5 minutes. When did he get this grey beard??" Once he began singing, the swooning over Mr. Biggs ensued and the rest of the night was spent discussing the sexiest 79-year-old alive.
2.Steve Harvey and D-Nice showed up in their Sunday's Best
Not to mention, Steve changed his suit three times. When the show began, he was rocking this purple ensemble that Twitter saying he was preparing to take over Gotham City and when the second half of the night kicked off, he opted for a sleek, midnight blue look.
3.The costume changes
We just knew these groups were going to do what needed to be done. We didn't expect a full costume change mid-show, but knowing them it makes perfect sense.
4.Steve Harvey sharing every story from his adolescence...
By every story, we mean every story. It was tolerable, initially, but quickly turning into a roasting fest on Twitter.
5.The call was made, but Steve stayed ready
After Black Twitter spent the first half of the night virtually throwing tomatoes at the host, Swizz Beatz confirmed that a "backstage talk" led to a quiet second half. However, as soon as the cue was given, Harvey belted out a note or two. Bless his heart.
6.Ron Isley performing "Between The Sheets"
It was very apparent he couldn't wait to sing one of the sexiest songs to ever exist. For goodness' sake, he jumped outta his seat and said, "I like it when you call me big poppa." The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Big Poppa" is one of the most recognizable uses of the "Between The Sheets" sample.
7.That moment when everything clicked for Gen Z
Sorry to shake the table, but these groups are where most of your faves get their inspiration from.
8.When that muscle memory kicked in... literally
When opening chords to "Can't Hide Love" began, EWF's Philip Bailey took it back and hit a kickball change that had us crying.
9.The reason(s) why
For those of us who played tech support for our aunts, uncles, parents and grandparents, this was why. It was a moment for them to drift on a memory and have a good time with the music that raised them.
10.The After Verzuz closed out the night perfectly.
Since VERZUZ began, we have wondered how Affion Crockett and Spice Adams always have the looks and mannerisms ready to go immediately after the battle commences. Tonight was no different because between Spice nailing Ron Isley's look, Affion rocking Verdine White's signature spiral curls and Godfrey capturing all things Steve Harvey, this recap was IT.
To relive the music celebration, stream the VERZUZ below.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Shoutout to Black Twitter
