An American soul legend with personal links to East Anglia returns to the region to electrify audiences.

Geno Washington was based in the area during the early 1960s, when he was in the United States Air Force.

Aside from his own distinctive voice and musical style, he is probably best-known for the 1979 number one single Geno, performed by Dexy’s Midnight Runners, which was written in his honour.

Following his military service, Geno stayed in England and, along with his Ram Jam Band, had two of the best-selling UK albums of the 1960s.

Although he returned to the USA in the 1970s, he later returned to the UK, where he has always retained a faithful fanbase.

As well as being an accomplished rhythm ‘n’ blues performer, Geno has been known to spice up his act with a spot of hypnotism.

He is a member of the Guild of Hypnotists and often incorporates his skills into parts of his music show.

Geno comes to the Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree with Yo Yo Blues, described as a “recession- busting, kick ass, up-tempo, good time R ‘n’ B show”.

The show starts at 7.30pm on Friday. Tickets are £15 each.

Call 01376 556354 or visit braintreeartstheatre.com