Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings

For Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, 2013 became a year of unforeseen challenges and transformations. Three months before the original scheduled release of the group's highly anticipated fifth studio record, Give the People What They Want, Sharon Jones, the lead singer and matriarch of the worlds' #1 live soul act, was diagnosed with cancer. What was projected to be a hectic and exciting year of worldwide touring was quickly taken over by hospital rooms, doctors, and many unknowns. At 57, Jones has lived through her fair share of hardships and heartbreak, but being separated from the stage and her fans has proven to be the most difficult challenge yet.

Thanks to an extremely gifted medical staff, several months of recovery and the infinite love and support from friends, family and fans, Sharon is back, ready to once again join her Dap-Kings as they share their music with people around the globe. "My fans are what kept me fighting, and kept me focused on getting better," Jones says. "Everything I love can be summed up by the moment I get on stage, and start giving the people what they want. That's real love. That's real music."