Wattstax drew 100,000 people — this 1972 concert was about much more than music
Although the fight for racial equality is ongoing, Stax co-founder Al Bell says so is the hope for a better future envisioned by Wattstax a half-century ago.
On August 20, 1972, Stax Records brought its biggest stars to Los Angeles for a marathon concert. "Wattstax" is now being commemorated with a new box set and the theatrical re-release of a 1973 documentary. But to understand the significance of this landmark event, you have to rewind to August 1965.
Carla Thomas was performing at a Stax revue show at the legendary 5/4 ballroom in Watts, Los Angeles. After the show, she met a teenage fan, Jacqui Jacquette, who had recently won a local talent contest singing Thomas's 1961 hit "." Jacquette invited
