New musical play to honor legendary R&B act Hodges, James & Smith

Vancouver, B.C. – 57 Years Of Soul Music Radio, a streaming online radio station dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of soul music, is proud to announce the premiere of One More Love Song (We Could Have Been Stars), a stirring new musical play inspired by the groundbreaking work of female R&B trio Hodges, James & Smith and legendary Motown producer Mickey Stevenson. The production is a heartfelt tribute to the late Pat Hodges, whose soaring vocals and artistry helped define the trio’s sound.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of the 1960s and ’70s soul music scene, One More Love Song weaves together the trio’s powerful harmonies, Stevenson’s innovative production genius, and the personal and professional struggles they faced in an industry often indifferent to Black women’s voices. The play explores themes of love, ambition, betrayal, and redemption, anchored by iconic hits and deep cuts from the trio’s catalog, including fan favorites and previously unheard gems.

Pat Hodges, whose passing in 2025 left a void in the music community, is memorialized through the play’s emotional narrative, which underscores her enduring influence on R&B and the unsung role of female artists in shaping Motown’s legacy. The story also shines a light on Mickey Stevenson, the visionary producer and songwriter behind classics like “Dancing in the Street,” who championed the trio’s talent during their rise.

“This project is a labor of love and a long-overdue celebration of artists who deserved far more recognition in their time,” said H. Vince Reid-Finlay, Artistic Director of the play and founder of 57 Years Of Soul Music Radio. “Pat Hodges, along with her collaborators, paved the way for generations of soul and R&B artists. We’re honored to bring their music and stories to life onstage, ensuring their legacy isn’t forgotten.”

The play features a live band with full orchestra, dynamic choreography, and a script steeped in historical research, offering audiences an immersive journey through the golden age of soul. Original arrangements of Hodges, James & Smith’s music will be paired with theatrical storytelling to highlight their contributions to hits by Martha Reeves, Marvin Gaye, and other Motown legends, as well as their own underappreciated solo work.

One More Love Song (We Could Have Been Stars) is set to premiere in Spring 2026 at selected venues in selected cities, with a portion of proceeds benefiting music education initiatives for underserved youth. The production aligns with 57 Years Of Soul Music Radio’s mission to amplify marginalized voices in music history through storytelling and education.

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