“I loved being a part of bringing joy and solace to people when I sang,” said  Oleta Adams,  platinum-selling recording artist and four-time Grammy nominee. “It made me feel that I had something significant to contribute to the world, and that became the main reason for making it my career.”

In 1985, while performing at the Peppercorn Duck Club in the Hyatt Hotel in Kansas City, Oleta Adams’s powerful vocals caught the attention of Ian Stanley, the keyboardist for Tears for Fears. The band asked her to record and tour with them – launching her global career.

“Roy Orzibal, Tears For Fears cofounder, had written a song entitled, “Woman In Chains” and he asked me to bring that same emotion to his song,” she said. 

Oleta Adams’s work on their record led to her signing to the band’s same recording company, Polygram-Fontana. “It gave me integrity and a real boost to my own career,” she added.

This jumpstart to her career led to her performing with legends like Phil Collins, Michael Bolton, and Luther Vandross.

I remember when she opened for Luther Vandross. She was down-to-earth, very approachable and kind. Sitting behind a grand piano, she memorized audiences with warm, rich vocals. Her debut album, “Circle of Love,” was like nothing else at the time, and it took the musical world by storm.  Oleta Adams’ deep, clear voice in her breathy rendition of Brenda Russell’s “Get Here” is a torchy masterpiece. It became one of the 90’s great love ballads.  The song became an unofficial anthem of the 1991 Gulf War.

Celebrating 45 years in the music industry and having released nine albums, including secular, gospel, and Christmas, Oleta’s musical odyssey continues to garner her legions of fans worldwide.

Variety wrote, ” Oleta Adams is a singer of immense talent. She infuses the songs with a drama and sensitivity that leaves you limp, and hungering for more.”

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Luther Trivia Games, Live Performances, Style Vendors and Live DJ on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

Luther Vandross was known for wearing rhinestones, silk tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage and Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wasn’t afraid of bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and fringe. His style and incredible showmanship brought him legions of fans worldwide.

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made his concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, and Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell give us a closer look into the Shine of the Rhinestones, Big Luscious Hairstyles, Bold Makeup, Graceful Moves, and Tight Harmonies comprising Luther’s iconic stage shows. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem’s Heaven and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs performed by Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalist Keith Anthony Fluitt.

STYLISH VENDORS: Shop for apparel, jewelry, and teas from a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Enjoy signature cocktails and delicious appetizers.