MBE Dec. 1: Lee Fields invigorates, Christine McVie lives forever in our hearts

“Beautiful people of radioland, pull over in your car and make some noise for the soul of soul singers: Mr. Lee Fields.” With these indelible words uttered by bassist Ben Trokan, we’re off! The first live performance projected over KCRW’s airwaves in real time since early 2020 is happening, and soul legend Lee Fields is precisely the man for the job. The James Brown acolyte (often referred to by the nickname “little JB”) arrives on the scene ready to move and groove through every tender and deeply felt note that he and his top notch band, The Expressions, bring to life. The 71-year-old artist shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon, with his 2022 album “Sentimental Fool” his most profound musical work yet, and a full slate of tour stops just around the corner in the US and Europe, including one at the Fonda on Friday, Dec. 2. Relive the in-studio magic now, and find a way to see him up close and personal on a stage where he can really strut his stuff.

Plus we reflect on the musical impact of Christine McVie, who passed away recently at the age of 79. Hear cuts from the Fleetwood Mac vocalist/keyboardist’s early work, one of the beloved hits she wrote for her most significant project, and more.