R&B band Mint Condition stands on the shoulders of those who established Minneapolis’ reputation as a hub for outstanding music – famously initiated by the late, great Prince.
And they also follow suit with him and his Revolution (and later New Power Generation), Morris Day and the Time and others in presenting an unforgettable live musical experience.
Those fortunate enough to have ever seen R&B band Mint Condition probably already have their calendars marked for the band’s return next Friday, May 27 as part of the Old School 95.5 FM District Rhythm Series presented by E’I Extreme Institute by Nelly.
They’ll be the main attraction for the series’ 2016 kick off show on the outdoor Busch II Infield Stage at Ballpark Village.
More than 30 years in the game, they caught the eye of The Time alumni turned super producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis – who have created timeless music for the likes of Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men and Usher.
“We’ve been a big part of people’s lives,” Ricky Kinchen, bassist for Mint Condition, told The American back in 2011. “It’s still going, things are still happening, and we are still grateful.”
It’s been 25 years since the Minneapolis soul band made their national debut with their top-five R&B/top 10 pop hit “Breakin’ My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes).”
“There are a lot of people that started out with us that aren’t here right now,” Kinchen said.
“And some of them have sold 30 million records,” lead singer Stokley Williams chimed in.
It’s true they haven’t enjoyed the mainstream success of some of their contemporaries. It’s also true that they’ve remained a beloved R&B staple.
Mint Condition always manages to strike a chord with vivid and relatable lyrics, including “What Kind of Man Would I Be,” “You Send Me Swingin’” and “Nothing Left to Say.”
And all it takes is one experience of their live performances to earn the respect of music lovers and get listeners locked in for life as a fan.
Lead singer Williams is reminiscent of Prince in how he sings, dances and plays multiple instruments over the course of the performance. The rest of the band rises to meet Williams’ seemingly unmatchable energy, and the result is R&B magic.
Their records do no justice to their concerts – and as featured performers they often upstage headliners.
Mint Condition is a crew of musical Renaissance men. Most play more than one instrument, and many contribute to the songwriting and production within the group. Sometimes a game of musical chairs gets underway as they shift from one to the next – Williams showing off on drums usually gets the most reaction.
When they started out, Mint Condition was a band made up of high-school students playing original music among a scene of adult cover bands. The quality of their sound separated them from the pack. Their music got the attention of the pros – namely Jam and Lewis.
Thirty-two years later, they’re still in the game. While they haven’t had the commercial success they deserve, they consider themselves blessed with the staying power and support they’ve enjoyed over the years.
“Sharing and making feel people feel some kind of way with our music has been life-changing, to say the least,” Kinchen said. “Many thanks to the fans for keeping us here and keeping us inspired.”
Mint Condition will kick off the Old School 95.5 FM District Rhythm Series presented by E’I Extreme Institute by Nelly on Friday, May 27 on the outdoor Busch II Infield Stage at Ballpark Village. Doors open at 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.stlballparkvillage.com.
