They say never meet your heroes. They may just cause you to “freak out.” That’s what roller skaters in London’s Hyde Park experienced last weekend while bopping to funk collective Chic’s ubiquitous disco classic, “Le Freak.” Imagine their surprise when they were suddenly joined by the song’s co-writer, music icon and Chic co-founder, Nile Rodgers.
(Photo: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)
As it turns out, Chic has been on tour in Europe with English rock legends, Duran Duran, and played at BST Hyde Park on July 10. As reported by People magazine, hearing the unmistakable bass and guitar riff and hook of his 1978 hit—Chic’s very first Billboard No. 1—was irresistible for Rodgers as he passed by in a cab. Disembarking, the music led him to a group of roller skaters. While clad in sneakers himself, the 69-year-old did not hesitate to “get on down” with his fans.
Rodgers can be seen grinning ear-to-ear in the clip as the roller-skaters show off their moves and onlookers cheer and film the interaction, soundtracked by the funky bass line of “Le Freak.”
“C’mon, baby!” exclaims Rodgers to a woman roller-skating in the video.
“Somebody get him some skates,” says a fan off-camera.
Source: People
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As People further notes, roller skaters are no strangers to the sweet sounds of disco, which have always been ideally syncopated to the rhythm of the dancing on wheels. And Chic is among the most iconic groups of the disco era. So it’s little surprise that Rodgers was instantly recognized, despite sporting his customary sunglasses and Kangol cap. Skaters were eager to show off their moves for the icon, who returned the enthusiasm with some moves of his own.
In case you’re wondering, Chic’s concert was equally well-received. So, as the Brits might say, Rodgers’ latest trip across the pond appears to have been absolutely smashing.
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