Tag: Alicia Mitchell

Posted on

Luther Vandross Listening Party & More

We presented two back-to-back Luther Vandross events, live and virtual, this past April.

On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, we presented the first-ever Luther Vandross: Never Too Much Music & Style Celebration at Thread Lounge in New York, NY.

Our goal was to spotlight the glamour and elegance of Luther Vandross’ performances, including every sparkling rhinestone, crystal bugle bead, luminous pearl, and shiny metallic thread on his breathtaking encrusted tuxedos. Designer Tony Chase’s wonderous mix of sweeping Art Noveau and geometric Art Deco designs helped Luther transport his audience to a magical place. 

Since every show had to look like the first show, these costumes were worn, and their upkeep was a nightmare for Luther’s experienced wardrobe department. Beads would break, threads would snag and pull, and collars would get stained. It was aggravating! 

But, looking back, we can appreciate Luther’s keen eye for detail and his unique way of putting on a spectacular show. Combine these costumes with graceful choreography, sophisticated orchestration, and glorious backing vocals, and you get every heart in the audience melt. 

It’s incredible to think about the level of detail that went into each show, from the costumes and lighting to the choreography and chrome sets, not to mention the phenomenal talents of his band members and backing vocalists. I’m sure Luther’s performances left a lasting impression on everyone in the audience.

This fabulous free event will feature a Panel Discussion with Luther’s backing vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, Luther’s choreographer, James Ervin, a live performance by Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison, a Fashion Show curated by Catherine Schuller with Harlem’s Heaven Hats and Modafluer, DJ DAN.C.E, a vendor bazaar with True Serenity Teas, and an inspiring health and weight loss journey with Graffiti Glamour founder, Alicia Mitchell.

The FANDROSS Luther Vandross Listening Party on Saturday, April 20th, spotlighted songs from the recently re-released first album, LUTHER.

Hosted by Luther’s former personal assistant, Max Szadek, we were joined by family, friends, and colleagues: Seveda Williams, Fonzi Thornton, Nat Adderley, Jr., and Carlos Alomar, plus trivia with Robin Clark, Kevin Owens, Michelle Cobbs, Lisa Fischer, and commentary from Luther historian, Leon Petrossian. Additionally, we had rare interviews with Luther Vandross, discussing the early years of his musical legacy.

All photos by Carol Seitz Photography.

Posted on

Beauty Transformations with Alicia Mitchell at our Luther Vandross Never Too Much Celebration

Certified Beauty Consultant Alicia Mitchell shares her Small Steps to Big Rewards health journey at my Luther Vandross Never Too Much celebration on Wed, April 17th, at Thread Lounge in the Renaissance Hotel in NYC. Register at Eventbrite.

It’s a full circle moment for me because Alicia volunteered at my first Divabetic – Makeover program at MESS Makeup Studios in NYC in 2005. We both believe beauty and makeup services can spark interest and motivation in taking charge of your health. When you love yourself, you take care of your health. It’s hard to believe that our small little program turned into a national program reaching thousands of women at risk, affected by and living with diabetes, in the U.S.

Since then, we have stayed in touch mostly through Facebook. Recently, I saw her incredible health transformation and reached out to her. She graciously agreed to share her journey on stage and give a beauty and makeup demonstration.

I am forever grateful to Luther Vandross for the opportunity to serve one of the world’s greatest entertainers. He also inspired me to advocate for those at risk, living with and affected by diabetes.

For the past 20 years, I have been greatly rewarded by providing diabetes outreach Luther-style. I am profoundly grateful to my wonderful team of collaborators who helped me educate and entertain them about diabetes self-care and stroke prevention.

At the top of the list is Catherine Schuller, a bright ray of sunshine daily. She’s an incredible inspiration to live life to the fullest. Thank you, Catherine, for providing me a stage to celebrate my boss, idol, and friend, Luther Vandross.

His music touched my heart, his health ignited my fire, and his legacy motivates me to celebrate the joys of love and life.

oin us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and DJ DAN. C.E..

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

uther 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, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recordings and stage shows.

MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty to transform your health. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, Dig Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, Tashii Couture, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs, including True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend), Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Luther signature cocktails and delicious appetizers are available for purchase.

Posted on

Alicia Mitchell’s Small Steps To Big Rewards

In October 2022, Graffiti Glamor makeup artist Alicia Mitchell injured her foot. And she wasn’t able to walk without a cane Her healthcare professionals mistreated her, blaming the injury on her weight. But a follow-up conversation with her doctor ignited a fire underneath her. Alicia’s doctor said she was on the verge of having type 2 diabetes. Alicia received a similar warning a few years before and made some lifestyle changes, but juggling multiple jobs caught up with her. The long days and late hours pushed her health to the side. She admits she wasn’t paying attention to her body, routinely ate late, and lost track of herself. 

Looking back, she wishes she was taught about healthy lifestyle choices when she was younger. “No one showed me proper portion sizes or spoke to me about the importance of exercising.”

Although both of her parents have type 2 diabetes, as well as several of her relatives, food was a form of love in her home. The food is comfort mentality is why Alicia feels no one held her accountable as she began gaining weight. She was so focused on work that the weight started to creep on without realizing it. She wasn’t aware of how much she was eating or how it made it feel. At the time, her weight began to escalate. 

In June 2023, Alicia decided it was time to turn her health around. Although her work was active, she didn’t have a workout routine, so she began working out at a gym  First, she went to the gym once or twice a week before working out with a personal fitness trainer  At the same time, she began changing her eating habits  Alicia became mindful of her portion sizes and how certain foods made her feel, in addition to cutting back on added sugar in her diet  For someone who admits to having a sweet tooth that meant cutting down on sugar-sweetened beverages, cakes, and cookies, she works out daily and practices portion control. 

Since beginning her healthy lifestyle modifications a year ago, Alicia says she has dropped five dress sizes. Her advice to others is to ‘see yourself for where you are and take care of yourself now. Could you make a change to be a better you in the future? ‘ She also urges others to take care of one thing at a time. “Take your time, and little by little, you will see a change,” Alicia added. 

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and DJ DAN. C.E. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at THREAD Lounge in the Renaissance Hotel in New York City.

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, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recordings and stage shows.

MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty to transform your health. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, Dig Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs, including True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend), Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Enjoy signature cocktails and delicious appetizers are available for purchase.

Posted on

Modafleur Collection Showcased At Luther Vandross-inspired Fashion Show in New York

I am excited to showcase three of my niece Jacklene Creekmore’s designs at the fashion show during our upcoming Luther Vandross Never Too Much Birthday celebration, which will take place on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the THREAD Lounge in New York, NY.

Jacklene spent two summers living with me in my tiny one-bedroom apartment while she was in college. During one of those summers, she interned for fashion designer Tracy Reese. Tracy’s bold colors and unique prints, which she expertly crafted into joyful, feminine clothing for modern women, are hugely popular. Seeing my niece juggle being a mother and wife while designing and operating a small business is amazing.

I am grateful that I can support and promote her designs while honoring my boss, Luther Vandross. Luther was passionate about fashion and music, and we often visited designer flagship stores on Madison Avenue, including Roberto Cavalli’s store, where he loved the iconic animal prints. Up close, these designs were sensational.

Jacklene isn’t the only family member showcasing her designs. I also challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone and design. I worked in costumes at the ACT Theater before joining Luther Vandross, and I was a costume designer on a few small productions. As part of our celebration, I am returning to my ‘designer’ roots, presenting two unconventional wedding dresses alongside S Designs during our ‘Here & Now’ fashion show finale. Although designing two dresses in less than 48 hours is daunting, I am excited.  I plan to use corrugated cardboard, bubble wrap, and FedEx boxes and envelopes in my ‘Mail Order Bride’ collection. Pam Lewis, Luther’s head of wardrobe on tour, will coach me tomorrow on Zoom. As you can see, our upcoming Luther celebration is a family affair!

Since Jacklene and her family reside in Nashville, certified Beauty consultant Alicia Mitchell will create wig designs inspired by young Priscilla Presley and Country icon Lynn Anderson, adding a touch of Country Music nostalgia to Jacklene’s Modafleur collection. I’ve also designed three whimsical handbags to accessorize her dresses. 

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and DJ DAN. C.E..

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, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recordings and stage shows.

MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty to transform your health. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, Dig Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs, including True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend), Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

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

Posted on

Enjoy Funky Music at our Luther Vandross Big 80’s Birthday Bash in New York City

Join us for my Luther Vandross: Never Too Much Birthday Party, celebrating his iconic Music and Style. This free program features a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and Live DJ DANC.E. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 5:30 -8:30 PM at THREAD Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel.

MAKE ME A BELIEVER MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss their experience working with Luther on his most iconic recordings and stage shows.

LITTLE MIRACLES MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell shares how small steps led her to big rewards in her healthy journey as she demonstrates how hair and makeup artistry can transform your attitude regarding your health.

 Alicia has also been the lead Makeup artist for various fashion shows, hair shows, and pageants. In June 2023, she decided to get serious about her healing and self-care journey. She has dropped over four dress sizes by making small changes to alter her lifestyle through this process.

She will share her powerful tips on Small Steps to Success that you can take during your health journey as she demonstrates a beauty transformation.

As a professional makeup artist & fashion stylist, Alicia will demonstrate how the self-care tools of makeup, wigs,& fashion can renew your attitude to take charge of your health.

FUNKY MUSIC FASHION SHOW: Harlem Heaven’s Hats, Kynetik Soundz, Baro Sanchez, Dig Ferreira, LPF Collection, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, and Modafleur showcase the hottest trends in fashion.

Plus, S Designs spotlights Luther’s Wedding Song, “Here & Now,” with funky, flashy, and fabulous wedding gowns you don’t want to miss! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE MUSIC: Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison will perform Luther’s most beloved songs.

DJ DAN.C.E. spins Luther’s hits all night long.

VENDROSS: Harlem Heaven’s Hats, Power Pieces Heroic Adornment, and True Serenity Teas offer sensational goods and services to lift your spirit and delight your senses.

I’ll host the virtual FANDROSS Birthday Listening Party on Zoom on Saturday, April 20, at 3 PM. Join me, Luther Historian, and Special Guests as we spin the group Luther’s glorious first album, “Luther,” featuring the songs “It’s Good For The Soul (Part 1 & 2), “Emotion Eyes,” and “Funky Music during the program. Register for both programs on Eventbrite.

Posted on

Harlem Heaven’s Hats Joins our Luther Vandross Celebration in NYC

“When I listen to Luther Vandross’ music, It makes me happy. I want to sing along and move to the beat. I want to snap my fingers and stomp my feet. There is joy in his music,” says Evetta Petty, the owner and designer of Harlem Heaven’s Hats. 


Evetta will be joining us at our upcoming Luther Vandross: “Never Too Much” birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style Vendors, and Live DJ on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Thread Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel in NY, NY.

Photographer: Hank Pegeron @hpegeron | Model: Keanna Bryant | Hat Designer: @harlemheavenhats | Dress Designer: Malcolm Staples | hpegeron@me.com | 718-564-9916 | www.marckitimagery.com

Evetta and Divabetic partnered on a successful faith-based diabetes outreach program, Hat Boxing. At these events, we challenged women at risk, affected by, and living with diabetes to design hat boxes with educational, motivational, and encouraging messages about managing their diabetes health. Our main focus was raising awareness of the link between mismanaged diabetes and stroke. 

In 2003, before the release of “Dance With My Father,” my boss, Luther Vandross, suffered a debilitating stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes. Please learn how to keep your house a home by learning to prevent a stroke from occurring. If someone you know is experiencing a store, don’t wait to take action. Once a stroke strikes, every minute counts. BE FAST is a simple way to remember the signs of a stroke. BE FAST stands for balance, eyes, face, arm, speech, and time. 

Strokes don’t automatically result in long-term impairment. A clot-busting drug, known as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), can be given intravenously to people having a stroke. The drug can shrink the size of the clot, allowing blood to flow back to the brain. The key is calling 911 when you recognize a loved one is experiencing a stroke.

My boss, Luther Vandross, was known for wearing rhinestones, silk tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage and Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wore bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and fringes, which  Evetta Petty appreciated.

“When I design hats, I want them to make the customer happy. I am dressing people for important events in their life. I want them to smile when they see the hats and look great in them. I want my hats to evoke that same joy that I feel from Luthers’ music, ” says Evetta Petty. Harlem Heaven’s Hats have been featured in VOGUE, ELLE, CNN, the NY Times, and the World-Renowned Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot. She will participate in our Fashion Show at the Luther Vandross Never Too Much Birthday Celebration on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Thread Lounge in New York City.

Join us when we celebrate the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made Luther’s music and concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recording and stage shows. Hosted by Max “Mr. Divabetic” Szadek. 

MAKEVOER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty in transforming your health. Alicia’s own health journey is powerful, and she will share how small steps led her to great success in managing her weight. Hosted by Max “Mr. Divabetic” Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Harlem Heaven’s Hats, Kynetik Soundz, Baro Sanchez, Dig Ferreira, LPF Collection, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, and Modafleur showcase the hottest trends in fashion. Plus, S Designs spotlights Luther’s Wedding Song, “Here & Now,” with funky, flashy, and fabulous wedding gowns you don’t want to miss! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE MUSIC: Keith Anthony Fluitt will perform some of Luther’s most beloved songs, plus Special Guest performer Christopher Faison. DJ DAN.C.E. will spin Luther’s hits all night long.

STYLISH VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small businesses, including True Serenity Teas, Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling! Register Now. It’s Free!

Posted on

Luther’s Big 80’s Birthday Bash in New York 2024

Luther Vandross’s home furnishings also displayed his fantastic sense of style on stage and off. Although he didn’t own these chairs, he loved to upholster his chairs, sofas, and ottomans with animal prints.

During my tenure working as his assistant, Luther owned homes in Beverly Hills, CA, New York, NY, and Greenwich, CT. His Beverly Hills mansion’s decor stopped my heart when I first visited. It was lush, opulent, inviting, and beautiful. You knew you were in a star’s home the moment you walked through the front door.

He had black onyx kitchen countertops with blonde cabinetry. I was equally impressed by how he chose not to display his awards and merits in the foyer or front rooms. Instead, when you descended the stairs to his private screening room, he had all his Gold and Platinum Records, American Music Awards, Grammy Awards, BET Awards, and more on display in the rotunda. It was awe-inspiring.

Luther was a fan of the Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles. Art Deco leans toward geometric shapes, while Art Nouveau uses organic shapes and lines. On stage, Luther mixed both together to create a truly magical experience for his audience.

When his choreographer, James Ervin, was teaching me the arm movements of Luther’s song, Never Too Much, he mentioned that Erte’s poses inspired many of them.

Please join us for the upcoming Luther Never Too Much Big 80s Birthday Celebration, which will spotlight his iconic style and music on 4/17/24 at Thread Lounge in the Renaissance in NYC.

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

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. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, DIG Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs offering apparel, jewelry, and True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend).

True Serenity Tea’s for the Love Of Luther blends organic black tea, ginseng, peppermint, and anise.

Posted on

Luther Vandross Birthday Celebration 2024

Join us for my Luther Vandross: Never Too Much Birthday Party, celebrating his iconic Music and Style. This free program features a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and Live DJ Dan C.E. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 5:30 -8:30 PM at THREAD Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel.

This is my way of thanking Luther fans for their ongoing love, support, and admiration for my boss, Luther Vandross. I started working for Luther on the “Never Let Me Go” tour in 1993. I’m looking forward to sharing my memories, celebrating Luther’s love of fashion and style, hearing his music, and welcoming fans.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss their experience working with Luther. Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell shares how small steps led her to big rewards in her healthy journey as she demonstrates how hair and makeup artistry can transform your attitude.

FASHION SHOW: Harlem Heaven’s Hats, Kynetik Soundz, LPS Collection, Baro Sanchez, DIG Ferreira, LPS Collection, Teresa Marie Collection, and Modafleur showcase the hottest trends in fashion. Plus, S Designs spotlights Luther’s Wedding Song, “Here & Now,” with funky, flashy, and fabulous wedding gowns you don’t want to miss! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE MUSIC: Keith Anthony Fluitt will perform some of Luther’s most beloved songs, plus Special Guest performers.

DJ DAN.C.E. will spin Luther’s hits all night long. I’ll host the virtual FANDROSS Birthday Listening Party on Zoom on Saturday, April 20, at 3 PM.

Join me, Luther Historian, and Special Guests as we spin the group Luther’s glorious first album, “Luther,” featuring the songs “It’s Good For The Soul (Part 1 & 2), “Emotion Eyes,” and “Funky Music during the program. Register for both programs on Eventbrite.

Posted on

The Wiz on Broadway, Luther Vandross Fashion Show & Listening Party

I saw the musical, The Wiz: The Super Soul Musical Wizard Of Oz” on Broadway this week.

The 1975 Broadway production won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.  Sadly, Stephanie Mills didn’t win a Tony Award, but she did win the Drama Desk Award. I feel you can’t touch her performance. Her voice soars, shines, and shatters your ears. She will always be Dorothy for me.  

The musical’s idea originated with producer Ken Harper, who became the director and worked with Geoffrey Holder. 

The original Wizard on Broadway actor Andre De Shields wrote, “It was Geoffrey’s masterful people skills and embrace of magical realism that metamorphosed The Wiz from caterpillar to butterfly,” according to Wiki. 

The Wiz was a breakthrough for Broadway, a large-scale big-budget musical featuring an all-Black cast. Its success opened the door for future musicals, Dreamgirls, and Sophisticated Ladies, to be produced. 

One of the first albums Santa brought me was the original Broadway cast recording. I would repeatedly listen to the music, especially “Ease On Down The Road” and “A Brand New Day.”

I didn’t learn that Luther Vandross wrote “A Brand New Day” until after passing in 2005. He never performed the song in concert, so I had no reason to make the connection. But what a song! I love his creative approach to writing a song about Evillene’s death.

Luther’s joyful concept of what’s to come versus celebrating the tragedy of the witch’s death is inspiring. “A Brand New Day” is featured in the new Broadway production twice.

Watching the show with my friends, Joe and Leisa, and FANDROSS CEO Seveda Williams was a beautiful experience.

I adore Deborah Cox, who plays Glenda. Several years ago, I saw her perform “Absolutely Not” and “Things Just Ain’t The Same” at a KTU radio listening party, and she blew the roof off with her electrifying performance. 

Celebrating Luther’s songwriting talents and the cast’s wonderful performances was wonderful. Plus, I got to relive my childhood memories.

The film version of The Wiz starred Diana Ross as Dorothy, Michael Jackson as Scarecrow, Nipsey Russell as Tin Man, Richard Pryor as the Wizard, and Lena Horne as Glinda. 

Join me for my Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday party celebrating Luther’s iconic Music and Style.

This free program features a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style Vendors, and Live DJ Dan C.E.  on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 5:30 -8:30 PM at THREAD Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel. 

PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss their experience working with Luther. Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell shares how small steps led her to big rewards in her healthy journey as she demonstrates how hair and makeup artistry can transform your attitude. 

FASHION SHOW: Harlem’s Heaven, Kynetik Soundz, LPS Collection, Baro Sanchez, and Modafleur showcase the hottest trends in fashion. Plus, S Designs spotlights Luther’s Wedding Song, Here & Now, with funky, flashy, and fabulous wedding gowns you won’t miss! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE MUSIC: Keith Anthony Fluitt performs some of Luther’s most beloved songs.  DJ DAN.C.E. spins Luther’s hits all night long. 

I’m thrilled to announce I’ll host the virtual FANDROSS Birthday Listening Party on Saturday, April 20, at 3 PM on Zoom. Join me, Luther Historian Leon Petrossian, Fonzi Thornton, Carlos Alomar, Nat Adderley Jr., and more special guests as we spin the group Luther’s glorious first album, “Luther,” during the program.

Posted on

Luther Vandross Music & Style Celebration In April

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 Dan C.E.  on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 5:30 – 9 PM

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.

“When I listen to Luther Vandross’s music, it makes me happy. I want to sing along and move to the beat, snap my fingers, and stomp my feet. There is joy in his music,” says Harlem Heaven’s milliner, Evetta Petty. “When I design hats, I want them to make the customer happy. I am dressing people for important events in their life. I want them to smile when they see the hats and look great in them. I want my hats to evoke that same joy that I feel from Luthers’ music.”

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

Dan C.E. has been a professional DJ for 20+ years. Throughout his career, he developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted, by has been a professional DJ for 20+ years. He developed his style of open format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted, over the course of his career, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

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

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

Proudly powered by WordPress