The Isley Brothers Bring Black Joy to the Kern County Fair

By Cecil Egbele | Contributing Writer | California Local News Fellow

The Ferris wheel glowed against the Bakersfield night sky. The scent of kettle corn, barbecue, fries, and other fair treats drifted through the air as children’s laughter and screams mingled with the sounds of carnival rides. Beyond the games and food stalls, Kern County showcased its agricultural pride through livestock displays and farm produce exhibits. But as the sun dipped below the horizon, all eyes turned toward the main stage, where living legends were about to perform, the Isley Brothers.

For more than six decades, the group has crafted masterpieces woven into the fabric of Black life. And on this night, Bakersfield was ready to celebrate that legacy.

By 8 p.m., the County Fair arena was full. Friends and neighbors greeted each other warmly, catching up before the lights dimmed. When Ronald and Ernie Isley finally walked onto the stage, the crowd erupted. Generations of fans, grandparents, parents, and young people stood to their feet, phones in hand, eager to capture the moment. For the next two hours, the fairgrounds transformed from carnival chaos into a celebration of Black musical excellence and memory.

From the first notes, the Isleys delivered on their promise of timeless music. They opened with the 1970s classic “Who’s That Lady?” before taking the audience on a soulful journey through their rich catalog. Each song carried a mood, a memory, and a moment.

The setlist felt like the soundtrack to Black family gatherings. “It’s Your Thing” had the crowd two-stepping in the aisles, while “Between the Sheets” and “Hello It’s Me” brought slow sways and knowing smiles. When the rhythm of “Shout” filled the air, the entire audience joined in, echoing the chorus across the fairgrounds.

Midway through the concert, Ronald Isley, famously called “Ron,” – now 84 – paused to introduce members of his family performing alongside him, including his wife of 20 years, 48-year-old Kandy Johnson Isley, who sang backup vocals. The crowd roared in approval, embracing the family spirit that has long defined the Isley Brothers’ music. 

As the music continued, generations connected as couples embraced, elders nodded in reminiscence of their youth, and young people moved to the groove.

“I’m a singer myself, and I was completely blown away,” said Bakersfield resident Janelle Armstrong, who attended with her friends Gloria and Nicole. “They were absolutely fantastic. I danced the whole night.”

Nicole described the performance as “beautiful,” while Gloria called it “an excellent show.”

Another Bakersfield resident, Lashonda Moore, said excitedly, “This show was off the chart. I grew up with their music and knew every song they sang. I paid a thousand dollars just to see them play.”

Others shared the same excitement. “It was great. I loved it,” said Marvin. “The show was an awesome experience,” added Anthony Palmer. “I was excited for every song they played.”

Formed in the 1950s, the original group included Ronald, O’Kelly, and Rudolph Isley, later joined by Ernie and Marvin. Though O’Kelly, Marvin, and Rudolph have passed on, Ronald and Ernie continue to carry the torch. Across the decades, their sound evolved with the times without losing its soul. That enduring connection has made the Isley Brothers deeply cherished across generations.

The Isley Brothers’ influence on Black music is profound and far-reaching. Their gospel-style emotion infused into secular love songs shaped the sensual depth of Marvin Gaye’s music. Prince’s guitar work, stage persona, and fusion of funk and rock reflected the Isleys’  experimentation. In hip-hop, their catalog continues to live on. The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Big Poppa” samples “Between the Sheets,” while Kendrick Lamar’s “I” remodels “That Lady,” even featuring Ronald Isley himself. 

Their cultural impact has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, they have earned some of the highest honors in the industry:

1992: Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

2014: Awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

2019: Launched their 60th Anniversary Tour, commemorating their first hit, “Shout”

2023: Honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing their long career, influence, and recording legacy

The Kern County Fair ended with fried food, bright lights, carnival fun, and livestock shows; but for the Black community gathered that night, it ended with something far more profound. The Isley Brothers didn’t just perform; they reminded everyone present that Black culture, history, and music remain timeless.