Dionne – Divabetic

01/10/202501/10/2025

Divabetic Inspiration: Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle inspired me to create the term “Divabetic” during a memorable Luther Vandross Tribute Concert in New York City back in 2003.

Watching her shine on stage, radiant and dressed to impress, she shared, “I have diabetes. Diabetes doesn’t have me.” Her courage and sparkle made me reflect, “You’re not just a diabetic; you’re a DIVA.”

That’s when the idea of “Divabetic” popped into my head. Once I got home, I noted the word ‘diabetic’ in black ink and then creatively added a ‘v’ in red. It suddenly clicked that the ‘v’ symbolized Vandross and the divine divas he loved, like Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, and of course, Patti LaBelle.

I realized that encouraging Luther’s fans to embrace a fresh perspective (“NEW ATTITUDE”) on living with diabetes—just like Patti did—could really transform health outcomes.

For the past twenty years, Patti LaBelle has shown the world that you can GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS, and live well with diabetes every day.

While I don’t remember Luther discussing his diabetes openly, I knew he had a huge support system for his music, but when it came to managing his health, he faced it on his own. Tragically, he suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes at just 52. But you don’t have to follow that path or choose to walk it alone.

It’s essential to seek help, connect with a caring community, and share your journey. After all, living with diabetes can be fabulous! For over twenty years, I’ve been on this mission, all thanks to the inspiration from Patti LaBelle.

Through the Divabetic programs, podcasts, and videos, I’ve reached hundreds of thousands of men and women, spreading awareness and positivity. Let’s live life like a diva!

It is a privilege to be featured in the NAACP-nominated documentary Luther: Never Too Much and to share my story of discovering Luther after he suffered a stroke related to mismanaged diabetes, hoping to help others avoid a health crisis.

My hope is that by sharing our experiences, we can encourage others to take preventative steps for their health. If you live alone, please make sure you have a solid support system in place for any emergencies.

Remember, if you notice any signs of a stroke, don’t hesitate to seek help right away – taking quick action can really make a difference in your recovery. Let’s look out for each other!

01/04/202501/04/2025

Luther Vandross Stories: The Making Of The Song “Here And Now”

We’re diving into the enchanting world of R&B with one of its all-time greats, Luther Vandross, and his beloved wedding song Here and Now.

Joining our host, Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, is Terry Steele, the talented co-writer who helped bring this classic to life. Terry will take us behind the scenes of the creative process, sharing the inspiration that fueled the heartfelt lyrics and the song’s enduring legacy.

Terry Steele also reflects on Luther’s hero, Dionne Warwick’s pivotal role in Luther’s song recording.

Growing up in the Bronx, Luther Vandross was mesmerized by the magic of music, particularly by Dionne Warwick‘s enchanting voice.

Hearing her on the radio ignited a passion in him, and seeing her perform live at the Brooklyn Fox Theater left a mark on his heart. He fondly remembers, “She came on stage and just killed me,” capturing how deeply her music resonated with him. The song Anyone Who Has a Heart inspired him to pursue his own musical dreams.

Luther Vandross won his first Grammy in 1991 for Here and Now after being nominated 9 times.

Billboard magazine included Here And Now on their list of the Best 30 Wedding Songs of All Time stating, “everything about the song suggests flowing curtains and candlelight, and Luther’s voice is pure butter.”

Terry Steele is a two-time Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter who has toured internationally and performed in places like Russia, Japan, and Brazil.

As a professional songwriter, he has collaborated with superstars like Whitney Houston, Dionne Warwick, and Stevie Wonder, among others. As the principal writer of the hit Here and Now.

Terry received his first Grammy nomination for “Best Rhythm and Blues Song” in 1990. He has held esteemed songwriting roles at major music companies and even tours occasionally with the renowned jazz band HIROSHIMA as their lead singer.

Angela Bofill suffered two strokes but neither stroke could take away her positive, humorous personality and her fighter spirit. After she lost the ability to sing, she returned to the stage for “The Angela Bofill Experience” in which she skillfully narrated her life story, while her band and other singers. Enjoy our exclusive interview with this iconic singer and songwriter.

01/01/2025

Luther & Dionne: Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow

Luther Vandross‘s journey into the world of entertainment was sparked by a memorable experience at the Fox Theater in Brooklyn, NY, where he had the chance to watch Dionne Warwick perform.

Luther shared with the New York Times that witnessing her magic on stage inspired him to connect with audiences in a similar way. Luther fondly remarked, “It was women like Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, and The Supremes who drove me to the stereo.” He believed that women, in their performances, were more willing to dive deep emotionally and take creative risks, showcasing their talents with flair.

A beautiful friendship blossomed between Luther and Dionne after Cissy Houston, Luther’s friend, introduced them backstage at Radio City Music Hall. They became so close that when he recorded A House Is Not A Home, Dionne was the first person he wanted to share it with. Dionne praised Luther’s ability to put his unique spin on her songs, saying, “He didn’t do Dionne Warwick. He did Luther Vandross interpreting what Dionne Warwick had done, and he was a genius.”

In 1983, Clive Davis enlisted Luther to produce Dionne’s album, How Many Times Can You Say Goodbye. The final track on the album features Dionne’s interpretation of Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, a classic penned by Carole King and Gerry Grolnick.

Not everyone knows that before she left to get married, Dionne joined the Shirelles, stepping in for Shirley Owens and Doris Coley, and continued with the group starting in 1963.

Luther, a devoted fan of the Shirelles, would later share with the New York Times, “First, I was a down and desperate fan of the Shirelles. Then, when I saw Dionne Warwick at the Brooklyn Fox, my life changed. She showed me there were standards.” To honor her legacy, Luther surprised Dionne by bringing in the original Shirelles members to join her on a track.

Dionne reminisced, “We had a ball recording that song. We laughed a lot, let me tell you!” Luther even playfully told her, “See! You ARE a rock and roll singer!”

12/28/202412/28/2024

Dionne & Luther

From a fan’s deep admiration to becoming the star’s trusted producer, the friendship between Dionne Warwick and Luther Vandross blossomed beautifully over the years, much like the incredible music they created together. Here’s a delightful timeline of their remarkable musical journey.

As a young boy growing up in the Bronx, Luther Vandross was captivated by the power of music and found a hero in Dionne Warwick. Listening to her soothing voice on the radio sparked his passion. The moment he saw her perform live at the Brooklyn Fox Theater, it was like magic.

“She came on stage and just killed me,” he recalled, reflecting on how the serious nature of her music resonated with him. The song Anyone Who Has a Heart left an everlasting impact, inspiring him to chase his dreams in music.

Years later, Luther reminisced about how pivotal that experience was: “The person single-handedly responsible for me deciding to pursue artistic things was Dionne Warwick. It was at the Brooklyn Fox Theatre.” This early connection fueled his desire to create his musical legacy.

While studying in college in Michigan, Luther cleverly navigated his way backstage to meet his idol. He told the security team he was Dionne’s cousin, and when he finally got to meet her, he introduced himself with a grin. Dionne played along, and just like that, a beautiful friendship began to blossom. Their late-night phone calls often turned into lively discussions about their shared love for wrestling, showcasing the warmth and joy in their bond.

Dionne couldn’t help but praise Luther, calling him a “fantastic musician” and an “absolute joy” to work with. Their chemistry was undeniable, leading to a harmonious partnership.

The world first got to experience Luther’s incredible talent in 1981 with his debut album, Never Too Much. His breathtaking rendition of A House Is Not A Home quickly climbed the charts, becoming a staple on quiet storm radio stations nationwide. Dionne herself lauded his version, stating that Luther recorded the definitive rendition of her iconic song, making it uniquely his own.

In 1983, their collaboration deepened when Luther produced Dionne’s album How Many Times Can We Say Goodbye. He took the helm as the producer and lent his smooth vocals to a duet on the title track and co-wrote several songs for the album, including the enchanting So Amazing.

Just a few years later, Luther honorably covered So Amazing for his album Give Me The Reason in 1986, showcasing the strong influence Dionne continued to have on his career.

Interestingly, Dionne initially wanted Luther to join her on the iconic song That’s What Friends Are For, but due to scheduling conflicts, Elton John stepped in. However, the stars aligned in 1987 when Luther performed the song alongside Dionne, Whitney Houston, and Stevie Wonder at the Soul Train Music Awards, creating a performance that would echo through time.

The heartfelt anthem raised over $3 million for the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), exemplifying the artists’ commitment to important causes.

On that very night, Luther Vandross shined brightly, winning the Male Album of the Year award for Give Me the Reason, which featured his first top-20 pop hit, Stop to Love.

Throughout his career, Luther continued to honor Dionne’s legacy by reinterpreting her beloved songs from the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, including unforgettable hits like Anyone Who Had a Heart, A House Is Not A Home, and Are You There (With Another Guy).

Their vibrant friendship and musical partnership created a lasting legacy that inspires artists and fans alike.

05/08/202305/08/2023

Crystal Penny Shows Their ‘Standards’ on Tribute Songs To Divas

Get drenched in a hefty dose of R&B and Soul with Crystal Penny as this musical duo has returned with another gem of a musical creation. Offering a punch of retro vibes and breezy tunes, their latest track ‘Standards’ is buzzing in the industry. This dynamic duo is best known for their exceptional vocal skills and sync between two which sounds a like single energetic entity. Let’s find out more about these talented music artists.

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Crystal Penny is formed by Sisters Crystal Wilson Blackmon and Penni Wilson, the musical powerhouses who started music at an early age. They became seasoned music artists by their teenage and started performing as professionally as the Lovations. Their sheer individuality and the original essence of the soul could be noticed in their musical psyche. With the tunes and grooves of “I Keep Singing La, La, La, Oooh,” “I Want You,” “Later Baby,” and “Heaven Told Me So”; this duo came to Los Angeles to follow their dreams. After singing for legendary Motown Records, they have performed with numerous artists like Maurice White, Rick James, Diana Ross, Lou Rawls, Curtis Mayfield & the Impressions, and many others.

This dynamic duo has also appeared on OWN network’s reality TV show, “Flex & Shanice,” featuring Crystal’s daughter, Grammy-nominated recording artist Shanice Wilson, and her family. They have previously dropped a few songs like ‘My Vow to You’, and ‘My Heart Belongs to You’ that offer a redefined taste of soul music. Amid the global pandemic, with the help of fans from the UK; this musical duo started revolving at the center of attention with their timeless hit track “Keep Singing La La La Ooh.” It garnered over 350K views on YouTube and 150K Spotify streams.

Bringing back their original essence and the trademark soulful harmonies, the musical duo has come up with another new R&B and Soul track named ‘Standards’. Beautifully crafted and masterly produced by Ivan Hampden Jr., the track offers an amazing groove and an enticing musical experience. Not to mention, their eclectic vocals skills add more creative layers to the track. It is amazing to witness how two artists can be so much in control while complementing each other. This song is buzzing through all the major music platforms such as Spotify, SoundCloud, and Apple Music. Follow Crystal Penny on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to get more updates on their upcoming musical projects.

Song Link:

04/18/202304/18/2023

Crystal Penny’s STANDARDS Jumps To #3 on BCfm Official Soul Chart

It is a thrill to find that our song, Crystal Penny’s new single, STANDARDS, jumped from #5 (last week) to #3 on the Official BCfm Soul Chart countdown this week.

STANDARDS is my tribute to the leading ladies of R&B and Soul Music whose timeless classics captured my heart’s ideals of love listening to the Quiet Storm. The song’s catchy chorus features the names of Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, Etta James, Sarah Vaughan, Nina Simone, and Dionne Warwick.

Sisters Crystal Wilson Blackmon and Penni Wilson collaborated with producer Ivan Hampden Jr. and lyricist Max Szadek to write STANDARDS. Crystal’s daughter, Shanice Wilson, lent her voice to the background vocals. The song is a timeless R&B tune brought to life by Penni and Crystal’s trademark vocal harmonies, an engaging melody, and lyrics praising the legendary soul music divas.

Thank you to DJ Tony Griffin and BCFM Radio for embracing Crystal Penny’s STANDARDS as much as I do. I am overjoyed! STANDARDS will be available on all music streaming apps on Friday, April 21, 2023.

Crystal Penny’s new single is a follow-up to their original soul classic recordings (performed under the name The Lovations) that have gone viral and will be available on all music platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon.

The core sentiment of their single is a celebration of many of the greatest female vocalists of all time, who sang with their hearts on the Quiet Storm. Many of these icons’ personal and professional journeys hit close to home to the Wilson sisters. “The women mentioned in the song are legends to my sister and me,” says Penni Wilson. “We grew up listening to Sarah Vaughan and idolized Etta James and Dionne Warwick. They inspired us to sing in the first place.”

Sisters Crystal Wilson Blackmon and Penni Wilson understand that love songs affect the way we love, live, and interact with one another. “Our favorite vocalists express the grand illusion of what love should be and what we should feel,” Penni adds. “We hear it on the radio and strive to find it in our lives.”

Crystal Penny is the dynamic duo of singer-songwriter sisters Crystal and Penni Wilson, who have shared the stage or recorded with such icons as Barry White, Maurice White, Rick James, Lou Rawls, and Curtis Mayfield & the Impressions, among many others. Their sweet harmonies accompany the late maestro Barry White on his classic hit Practice What You Preach. The two also appeared on OWN network’s reality TV show, Flex & Shanice, starring Crystal’s daughter, Grammy-nominated recording artist Shanice Wilson (best known for her megahit I Love Your Smile, her husband, actor and comedian, Flex, and their children.

Growing up in a family of gifted singers, the Wilson sisters started singing at a young age. With music in their souls, they continue to thrive after five decades of brilliant song.

06/05/202006/05/2020

Divabetic Bookshelf: Kitchens of Great Midwest

Looking for a good read?

I encourage you to pick up J. Ryan Stradal’s Kitchens of Great Midwest.

Kitchens of the Great Midwest is a novel about a young woman with a once-in-a-generation palate who becomes the iconic chef behind the country’s most coveted dinner reservation.

When Lars Thorvald’s wife, Cynthia, falls in love with wine—and a dashing sommelier—he’s left to raise their baby, Eva, on his own. He’s determined to pass on his love of food to his daughter—starting with puréed pork shoulder. As Eva grows, she finds her solace and salvation in the flavors of her native Minnesota. From Scandinavian lutefisk to hydroponic chocolate habaneros, each ingredient represents one part of Eva’s journey as she becomes the star chef behind a legendary and secretive pop-up supper club, culminating in an opulent and emotional feast that’s a testament to her spirit and resilience.

How you ‘sneak’ vegetables in treats ? Try these amazing Plant Strong Beet Cookies from Two Vegans Mission with us!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAlIprkj3SE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

**Diabetes Late Nite Podcast with music from Dionne Warwick**

We’re talking about ‘Secrets to Longevity & Diabetes’ with musical inspiration from Dionne Warwick.

Living longer and increasing your life expectancy with diabetes doesn’t have to be a chore. From flossing your teeth daily to getting a good night’s sleep, there are simple things you can do to help you live long, happy and healthy life.

Guests include The Lager Queen of Minnesota and Kitchens of the Great Midwest Author J. Ryan Stradal, Deborah Greenwood PhD, RN, BC-ADM, CDE, FAADE, Fonzi Thornton, Rachel Stahl MS, RD, CDN, CDE, and Lorraine Brooks. Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from Dionne Warwick’s ‘Dionne’ album featuring I’ll Never Love This Way Again and Deja Vu courtesy of SONY Music.

05/20/202005/20/2020

Divabetic Puzzle: Wheel Of Fortune #1

Can you solve the puzzle?

Divabetic is celebrating it’s 10 year anniversary of podcasting in July 2020 with a series of games, trivia questions and virtual outreach events to help you ‘GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS’ and prevent a diabetes health-related complication from occurring. Make sure to check out our full calendar at divabetic.org for updates.

Win the chance to appear in Divabetic’s Annual Mystery podcast on Tuesday, September 8, 2020, 6 PM, EST when you fill out our quick Podcast Listener Survey. Share your opinions on what topics, experts and music choices you’d like us to present over the next year.

Puzzle answer: Low Blood Sugar

What is Hypoglycemia or a low blood sugar? Hypoglycemia is a condition in which your blood sugar (glucose) level is lower than normal. Too much insulin or other diabetes medications may cause your blood sugar level to drop too low, causing hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia can also occur if you eat less than usual after taking diabetes medication, or if you exercise more than you normally do.

Typical symptoms of hypoglycemia may include: Increased thirst and/or hunger. Frequent urination. Sugar in your urine. Talk to your doctor about how to treat low blood sugars.

Listen to Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcasts for diabetes information, expert advice, real-life testimonials and music from your favorite artists. This month, we’re talking to The Lager Queen of Minnesota and Kitchens of the Great Midwest Author J. Ryan Stradal, Deborah Greenwood PhD, RN, BC-ADM, CDE, FAADE, Fonzi Thornton, Rachel Stahl MS, RD, CDN, CDE, and Lorraine Brooks and featuring music from Dionne Warwick.

05/13/202005/20/2020

what’s it all about? by Lorraine Brooks

ls it just for the moment we live?

Or shall we plan for what’s ahead?

Shall we look to stay empowered

Choosing hope instead of dread?

Diabetes notwithstanding,

We can choose the healthy way.

And we can say a little prayer

To get us going every day.

l’ll turn my house into a home

And look my illness in the eye

I want to make my choices count

To walk and hold my head up high.

For me it’s almost 40 years

l’ve dealt with diabetes now,

So far l’m doing very well

In keeping numbers nice and low.

Anyone who had a heart

Would understand the struggles faced

And anyone who wants to help

Is welcomed in my private space.

l never want to walk on by

And miss the pleasures to enjoy

I want to reach a ripe old age

So, healthy measures l employ.

Exercise is fun and good,

Vegetables and fruits and meat

Taking all my insulin

Covers all the foods l eat.

I thrive with my community

l’ve lived to 68 and more.

I couldn’t do it by myself,

l’m grateful, that’s what friends are for!

Listen to Lorraine Brooks read her poem, ‘what’s it all about?’ on May’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast CLICK HERE.

Diabetes Late Nite Inspired by Dionne Warwick

We’re talking about Secrets to Longevity & Diabetes with musical inspiration from Dionne Warwick on May’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

Dionne Warwick has enjoyed a tremendously long career as a singer. She ranks second to Aretha Franklin as the most charted female vocalist with 69 singles making the Billboard Hot 100 during the rock era (1955–1999).

Dionne Warwick once explained her longevity to Jet magazine, saying, “I really attribute it to remaining who I am and not jumping ship, being completely cognizant of what the people … are accustomed to hearing from me.”

Guests include The Lager Queen of Minnesota and Kitchens of the Great Midwest Author J. Ryan Stradal, Deborah Greenwood PhD, RN, BC-ADM, CDE, FAADE, Fonzi Thornton, Rachel Stahl MS, RD, CDN, CDE, and Lorraine Brooks.

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from Dionne Warwick’s ‘Dionne’ album featuring I’ll Never Love This Way Again and Deja Vu courtesy of SONY Music.

LISTEN NOW

05/09/202005/20/2020

What The Heck is Diabetes Technology?

Speaker, Author, Researcher in diabetes and digital health, Deborah Greenwood PhD, RN, BC-ADM, CDCES, FADCES joins us to talk about diabetes techonlogy and digital health on Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast on Tuesday, May 12, 2020, 6 PM, EST.

There’s seems like no better time to discuss Diabetes Technology and Digital Health than right now during the panepidemic.

Doctors and hospitals are use telehealth tools for routine appointments without the burden of traditional barriers, such as reimbursement and privacy restrictions.

Big health insurance organizations are relaxing rules on early prescription refills and prior authorization requirements to allow patients to preorder and store medications and supplies.

What does it mean for you?

Well, here’s Deb’s answer to probably the most basic question about Diabetes Technology and Digital Health prior to our interview on Tuesday.

Q: What the Heck is Diabetes Technology?

Deborah Greenwood (DG): “That is a great question because I think there is some confusion out there. Many people, when they hear the term diabetes technology, think about diabetes “devices” like pumps and continuous glucose montiors (CGMs) and meters, but in reality diabetes technology is so much more.

It is really a system that we like to call “technology-enabled care and education” that includes 4 key elements:

1. Communication between the people with diabetes (PWD) and the healthcare team (in many different forms including text or phone or videochat or patient portal)

2. The use of patient-generated health data, from diabetes devices we’ve discussed and from fitness trackers or other forms

3. The use of data to identify how both education and care can be tailored to the individual

4. Feedback provided and discussed with the care team so changes can be made like medication, or activity plans or eating plans etc.”

Deborah Greenwood PhD, RN, BC-ADM, CDCES, FADCES is a diabetes care and education specialist who focuses on digital health. she is owner of Deborah Greenwood Consulting and recently started working as a Medical Science Liaison at Dexcom. She was the 2015 president of AADE.

We’re talking about ‘Secrets to Longevity & Diabetes’ with musical inspiration from Dionne Warwick on May’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

Dionne Warwick has enjoyed a tremendously long career as a singer. She ranks second to Aretha Franklin as the most charted female vocalist with 69 singles making the Billboard Hot 100 during the rock era (1955–1999).

Guests include The Lager Queen of Minnesota and Kitchens of the Great Midwest Author J. Ryan Stradal, Deborah Greenwood PhD, RN, BC-ADM, CDE, FAADE, Fonzi Thornton, Rachel Stahl MS, RD, CDN, CDE, and Lorraine Brooks.

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from Dionne Warwick’s ‘Dionne’ album featuring I’ll Never Love This Way Again and Deja Vu courtesy of SONY Music.

Mr. Divabetic at the NYC Easter Parade