Headliners

Ashford & Simpson

Since the beginning of their career together more than 30 years ago, Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson have become one of the most prolific, versatile and exciting musical couples in recording history. Combining multiple skills as performers, songwriters and producers, they have created an unprecedented catalog of chart-topping hit singles and albums, collecting 22 gold and platinum records and more than 50 ASCAP awards.

In addition to their prowess as a recording duo, Ashford & Simpson have gained recognition as one of the most exciting live concert acts around. Their fiery stage shows have mended broken affairs, given love a shot in the arm and fed the soul some nourishment. According to The London Guardian, "It's one thing to write a love song, but it's quite another trick to convince an audience that you inhabit one."

Ashford & Simpson compositions are well-known in the music industry for being innovative and motivating. Their music has been used as themes for international events, such as the opening of the Olympic Ceremonies, and the Hands Across America theme "Reach Out and Touch Somebody's Hand."