I attended this fantastic New York Historical Society lecture on America’s second President. Most people falsely assume the lecture focused on Thomas Jefferson, who was America’s third President. Our second President was John Adams. He was also our first Vice President, serving under George Washington.
The lecture, titled ‘Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic,’ was led by esteemed Author and Historian Lindsay M. Chervinsky in conversation with moderator David M. Rubenstein (who is very funny). They skillfully illuminated the unique challenges that John Adams faced during his presidency and how his actions laid the groundwork for his successors.
Lindsay made the point that John Adams left a significant mark on history by establishing a peaceful transition of power. In the midst of the current political climate, John Adams stands out as a beacon of decency. He lost re-election to his foe, Thomas Jefferson, in a campaign fraught with tension. However, John Adams never wavered in upholding the customs of the presidency. Despite being sandwiched between two of America’s biggest heroes and not having a monument erected in his honor, he still achieved greatness. Imagine if he had refused to leave office after his adversary, Thomas Jefferson, won. Would we still have a democracy today? He did not attend Jefferson’s inauguration, choosing instead to travel by public carriage back to his home in Massachusetts. Lindsay noted that John Adams was not invited to attend Jefferson’s inauguration, and there is evidence to support that his presence could have created chaos.
Among the intriguing facts I learned about John Adams: he was the first President to reside in the White House, having previously served in Philadelphia, PA. His son, John Quincy Adams, would later become President.
It was also fascinating to discover that the President and Vice President cannot be from the same state, a rule that still stands today.
When you think you know everything about America’s history, you find out there’s so much more to learn.
I’m excited to interview Coney Island USA’s Artistic Director, Adam Rinn, today about the 42nd Annual Mermaid Parade on Saturday, June 22, 2024, on our Divabetic podcast.
The Mermaid Parade, the nation’s largest art parade, brings together creative minds in art and fashion and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to Brooklyn’s amusement district.
The Mermaid Parade originated to help preserve the tradition of Mardi-Gras-type events that were popular in Coney Island between 1903 and 1954.
Painter, performer, and sideshow historian Joe Coleman will be King Neptune and Queen Mermaid this year with his wife and muse, artist/photographer Whitney Ward. They will officially open the beaches for the beginning of summer and celebrate the sun, sand, sea, and salt air.
In addition to talking to Adam about the history and spectacle of the Annual Mermaid Parade, we will share Summer diabetes care tips and advice with prominent healthcare collaborators on the podcast.
Adam is a Coney Island native who has worked as a sword swallower, strongman, and variety performer for the past 20 years, so this should be a fun interview!
Coney Island hosts the world’s greatest art parade, the Mermaid Parade, on Saturday, June 22, 2024!
The Mermaid Parade is a unique, artistic celebration of ancient mythology and is considered the official start of the Coney Island summer season. The nation’s largest art parade attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to Brooklyn’s amusement district.
World-renowned painter, performer, and sideshow historian Joe Coleman will reign as King and Queen with his wife and muse, artist/photographer Whitney Ward. For over 30 years, the couple has been frequent prize winners for costumes.
According to tradition, King Neptune and Queen Mermaid will be wheeled through the parade in an antique wicker Boardwalk Rolling Chair from 1923.
Immediately after the parade, at approximately 4 p.m., Mr. Rinn will lead the Queen and King procession to the beach at 19th Street and the Boardwalk, for the official Beach Ceremony and opening the ocean for the summer swimming season.
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. Was it an accident or foul play?
Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario, a gypsy fortune teller, and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand.
Can Mr. Divabetic overcome his green pea phobia in time to prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea? Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his nosey Italian mother and friends. Along the way to revealing the murderer’s identity, he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.
FEATURING Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, USA Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst-Nicolay MEd, NDRT, Lorraine Brooks, Catherine Schuller, We Are Diabetes Founder Asha Brown, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Mama Rose Marie, and Seveda Williams. Produced by Leisa Chester-Weir.
She’s a famous Italian baker who has risen to fame with her delicious cannoli treats.
However, her romantic involvement with the victim, Conrad Rivera, also known as the Vanilla King of Madagascar, has caused her to become a prime suspect in our team’s ongoing murder investigation.
It’s all part of this year’s Divabetic Mysteries podcast titled “Murder Plain As Vanilla,” now available for streaming on popular platforms like Spotify, iTunes, and BlogTalkRadio.
If you’re a fan of true crime and love solving mysteries, you won’t want to miss this thrilling podcast series.
Our mystery podcast isn’t only for mystery lovers. It’s a fun way to learn about diabetes and self-care. In between colorful characters, crazy adventures, and mysterious surroundings, we pack health and wellness tips that can help you take charge of your diabetes. We also hope to encourage you to think like a detective the next time you experience unexpected blood sugar fluctuations. Search for clues, collect data, talk to witnesses, and bring your ideas to the authorities (healthcare collaborators) for solutions. A team approach to managing your diabetes isn’t a bad idea either.
Here’s a short synopsis of “Murder Plain As Vanilla”:
When Mr. Divabetic’s arch-nemesis baking sensation Renata Whisk calls, offering a chance to participate in the Visions of Vanilla baking competition, he can’t refuse. It’s an invitation to compete against culinary giants Best-Selling Cookbook Author Lily Frost, Green Thumb Gourment, Hazel Honeywell, and the Cannoli Countess and, most importantly, a chance to pay back his debt owed to his mother.
But before Max’s hands touch flour, he discovers the dead body of the Vanilla King of Madagascar. As luck has it, Max is the last person to see the Vanilla King alive.
To prove his innocence, he enlists his team, USA Today’s best-selling author Tonya Kappes, health educator MaryAnn Nicolay MEd, NDTR, and his mother, Mama Rose Marie. But when another baker’s dead body is found near Max’s station, even his mother tastes a recipe for disaster. Now, armed with only Renata Whisk’s Puffed Pastry recipe, a rolling pin, and his team’s expertise in solving murders and dispersing diabetes health information, Max has no choice but to solve the mystery or at least die trying.
Divabetic Mysteries: “Murder Plain As Vanilla” features Lorraine Brooks, Catherine Schuller, Dave Jones, Seveda Williams, Leisa Chester Weir, and Amparo Peterkin. Written by Max Szadek and Wendy Radford. Produced by Leisa Chester Weir. Animated by Max Szadek
Enjoy all of Divabetic Mysteries Podcasts streaming on Blog TalkRadio, iTunes and Spotify: Pink Panther Phantom of the Okra Suspect Boulevard Gypsies, Tramps & Peas Swan Wake Gingerbread Men Prefer Blondes Kill Me Madam A Christmas Peril Tomorrow Is Not On the Menu Website: Divabetic.Org
True Serenity Tea, LLC is excited to offer a special blend of black organic teas, peppermint, ginseng, and anise called “For The Love Of Luther” for the upcoming Luther Vandross Never Too Much Birthday celebration at THREAD Lounge in the Renaissance Hotel, New York on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
This unique blend is packaged beautifully, capturing the elegance and romance of Luther’s legendary concerts, making it a perfect gift for any occasion. Patty Callwood, the Owner/Founder and creator of this blend, says, “The same way Luther’s music touched my heart and soothed my soul is what I want this special blend of tea to do.”
Peppermint, anise, and ginseng are the chosen ingredients for the blend to capture the essence of Luther’s music. “Luther set the gold standard for male vocalists, and his voice was often compared to velvet. I wanted to capture those qualities for his fans with our packaging,” adds Patty.
The blend costs $15 and includes the Luther Tea, Disposable Tea Bags, and instructions on how to make the tea. Patty hopes Luther’s fans worldwide enjoy drinking this blend of tea and listening to his music as much as she does.
True Serenity Tea’s mission is to bring peace, calm, and balance to every cup, every day, by offering the finest, high-quality ingredients to craft teas that nourish the body and soul.
In addition to the “For The Love Of Luther” blend, True Serenity Teas will sell the Pina Colada and New York Bourbon teas for $10 a pouch in addition to the ” For The Love Of Luther ” blend. Remember, a cup of any True Serenity Tea is not just a beverage but a reminder to take care of yourself and to live a life filled with peace, happiness, and serenity.
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: Luther signature cocktails and delicious appetizers are available for purchase.
I’m thrilled to host FANDROSS’s upcoming Luther Birthday Listening Party on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 3 PM EST.
We will feature the music from the group Luther’s first album from 1976. There’s so much to learn and love. Join the fun as you hear how the group was formed, feel the emotional depths of the steamy lyrics, and share memorable moments from friends and musicians who worked on the album.
Enjoy an array of visuals, fun trivia questions, and colorful commentary from a super fan, and join in on spirited chat room conversation.
Through interview clips, our Honoree will fill us in on how his song “Everybody Rejoice “ made it into the Broadway musical ’The Wiz’ and his feelings about his remake of the song “The Second Time Around.”
This will be a befitting birthday toast to Luther. Come share in it!
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.
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.
“When you want a great show, it’s not ‘entertaining’ the audience – it’s you sharing with them… an experience of communion,” says Lizz Wright. “Music is primal: when it’s done without pretension, you can feel the shape of someone’s soul.”
Through a voice that The New York Times describes as “a smooth, dark alto possessed of qualities you might associate with barrel-aged bourbon or butter-soft leather,” vocalist and songwriter Lizz Wright sings with a soaring reflection of the cultural fabric of America.
“I’ve followed my voice rather than forcing it to emerge.”
I became a Lizz Wright fan when my friend, Carol, turned me on to her rendition of Nina Simone’s “Seems I’m Never Tired Lovin’ You.” You can feel the emotion she pours into every note of this ballad.
Lizz Wright’s 20-year career transcended social divides with her offer of love and a deep sense of humanity. She told NPR she is a big Otis Redding fan and finds inspiration in how he leaned into a song’s lyrics.. “
He sounds like he’s always at the end of a long day, and he just won’t give up. I just love his wearied devotion — that beautiful, beautiful, weathered sound.”She first made a name for herself nationally as a vocalist with a touring concert tribute to Billie Holiday. Lizz Wright released her debut album, Salt, on Verve Records, which topped Billboard’s contemporary jazz charts. On Concord, Lizz Wright released Freedom & Surrender (2016)—featuring the single “Lean In,” which landed on President Obama’s Summer 2016 playlist—and Grace (2017).
“I started really opening up as a songwriter and an interpreter and taking songs from all kinds of genres and stripping them down to just lyrics and the story inside the lyrics, and trying to make them really mine.”Lizz Wright launched her own independent record company, Blues & Greens Records a few years ago. She released the album Shadow, which features five of her original compositions and
celebrates the intimacy of romantic love, loss, community, and healing.
She avoids pigeonholing her music taste and instead listens to and appreciates all types of music. “What I like is not a particular genre; it’s storytelling,” says Lizz Wright. “There’s a lot of great storytelling in jazz, folk, and country music.”
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 a Live DJ.
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.
“I think that I am a walking testimony to you can have scars. You can go through turbulent times and still have victory in your life,” Natalie Cole said.
When she was a girl, Natalie Cole started singing with her father, crooner Nat King Cole. She made her first recording at age 6; by 11, she was performing on TV alongside her dad.
She won two Grammy Awards, Best New Artist and Best Female R&B Performance, for her debut album, “Inseparable” in 1975.
Her third — and first platinum — album, “Unpredictable,” spawned another No. 1 R&B hit: “I’ve Got Love on My Mind.”
Her fourth album, “Thankful,” features one of my favorite songs, the smooth and sultry ballad “Our Love.” It was written by Cole’s regular team of Chuck Jackson and Marvin Yancy, both former members of the R&B group the Independents.
In 1979, Natalie Cole received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, signifying and solidifying her prowess as a performer.
But her ongoing recreational use of substances turned into a heavy, crippling drug addiction.
In her autobiography, “Angel on my Shoulder,” she wrote, “I never got to make the transition from little girl to young woman … and that really screws you up.”
Her addiction became so prominent in her life that, on more than one occasion, it nearly killed her. She overcame her addiction after checking into rehab.
Our friend, Jennifer Jacobs, who worked with Natalie Cole on several of her music tours, shares her memories of working with this extraordinary woman on Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast inspired by Adele.
After becoming sober, Natalie Cole returned in the 1990s with “Unforgettable… with Love”, featuring renditions of songs previously sung by her father.
When Natalie Cole began her career, she admitted she was determined not to capitalize on her father’s name and wanted to forge her separate identity. In an interview, she said, “My father led by example. He wasn’t much of a talker—he walked life.” For many years, she also found the prospect of recording her late father’s songs too painful on a personal level. But overcoming her fears certainly paid off.
The album’s breakout single, “Unforgettable,” features a track dubbed over a previous Nat King Cole recording to create a father-daughter duet. The album sold over 11 million copies and garnered several honors, including seven Grammys, Record of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.
One of my other favorite moments from Natalie Cole’s career is when you replaced Whitney Houston at the Oscars and performed “Run To You” and “I Have Nothing” from the Bodyguard soundtrack.
In 2008, Natalie Cole was diagnosed with hepatitis C, a disease of the liver. She received a kidney transplant after her kidneys began to fail.
I just wanted to say a big thank you for checking out my Women & Music series for Women’s History Month. I had a blast creating artwork for each of my favorite performers and learning more about their amazing lives. I hope you had as much fun reading it as I did creating it!
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 a 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.
“I learned a lot about discipline when I was a backup singer,” Meli’sa Morgan recalled in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. “You really need discipline and control. You have to know what your voice can do and know how to use it just right.”
Singer-songwriter Meli’sa Morgan is perhaps best known for her #1 hit in the eighties: “Do Me, Baby,” an original recording by Prince. She has sung backup and collaborated with Chaka Khan, Kashif, and Whitney Houston.
“I idolized Chaka Khan; she was the ultimate, so cute, feathery, big hair, leather-wearing singer of all times. I wore my style after how she presented herself, and what she had that was becoming legendary,” she told Chocolate Voice. “Every Black female singer in America sang “Sweet Thing” at a talent show somewhere.”
She studied music theory at the Julliard School of Music.“I do lyrics and melodies,” she told the Los Angeles Times.
Her vocal ability landed her a record deal at Capitol Records in the 1980s. She took the music industry by storm, releasing hit after hit, including “Do You Still Love Me,” “Fools Paradise,” and “Love Changes,” a duet with Award-winning singer-songwriter Kashif.
Music critics mention her knack for saturating a song with passion and sensuality. Whether she sings up-tempo funk or a silky smooth slow jam, she pours her soul into a song.
Years ago, I saw her electrifying performance when she opened for Freddie Jackson in Rochester, New York. Her trademark hair was on full display. She admits she loved Chaka’s Big Hair and gave it her twist.
But let’s go way back to her amazing vocals on the dance hit “Keep In Touch (Body To Body) by Shades of Love. This New York City group of stelllar vocalists included Meli’sa Morgan, Lisa Fischer, Claudette Polite and Jean Steals.
About a decade later, Junior Vasquez and Johnny Vicious dominated the dancefloors in Gay clubs with her monster remix of this song. I still get up to dance every time I hear it.
Two years ago, the scarlet-red-haired singer released the single “Footprints Of An Angel” on her independent record label, Asilem Productions. The song is a movie theme with the same title. Meli’sa Morgan co-stars as a mother who loses her daughter to cancer. “Footprints of An Angel” was a solid hit on the UK Soul Charts and the Independent Urban Influencer R & B/Soul Charts.
I had the chance to interview Meli’sa Morgan for Divabetic’s Studio d podcast. If given the chance, she admitted that she would love to cover Luther’s “Bad Boy/Having a Party” song. Meli’sa Morgan maintains her health by following a strict diet and making time for herself.
When asked about the challenges of navigating a five-decade career in the music industry, Meli’sa Morgan said, “The easiest part of the business is, once you’re there, performing for your fans is the fun part. You embrace them, and they embrace you. But getting to the stage is the hardest—the political games, getting the gigs, promotion, the money, and all of that.”
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 a 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.
