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.
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!
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.
“I love singing Luther’s music because it is how I discovered my voice,” says Christopher Faison, the creator and star of the cabaret “Here and Now: The Music of Luther Vandross. “Everything I know about love I learned from listening to Luther Vandross. His voice to me was LOVE.”
Christopher will perform at our upcoming 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, 5:30 – 8:30 PM at THREAD Lounge in the Renaissance Hotel in New York City.
Christopher Faison’s 60-minute self-contained cabaret chronicles his quest to find love and all that it entails, underscored by the music of the legendary singer Luther Vandross. Featuring songs like “Never Too Much,” “Any Love,” and “Dance with My Father,” Christopher owns the stage in an intimate and glorious performance.
Debbie White of Banderas News writes: “Christopher Faison’s Here and Now: The Music of Luther Vandross was the perfect show for novice listeners and die-hard fans. Faison’s honesty, humor, and stellar vocals won over his audience instantly. With enthusiastic applause and several standing ovations, Here and Now is a fabulous show where emotion meets talent!
“I grew up listening to all the male vocalists of the 80s, but Luther was the only way to emulate. His music was sacred in my house and remains that way today, “Christopher says. “I learned about heartache and heartbreak, and I learned the beast of what it means to be in love and not have it returned. Most importantly, Luther taught me what love sounded like: the low rumbling in the pit of your stomach when love is new, the crescendos and decrescendos of courtship, the fortissimo you hit when you’re feeling just right, and the breath you hold while waiting for loves return.”
We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made Luther’s 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, 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.
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.
“You can go around all your life singing stuff that’s just basically a song,” Shirley Brown said. “But I think you are supposed to relate to what’s happening—inner feelings.”
Shirley Brown sang in church in West Memphis, Arkansas, until she was discovered at age 14 by Albert King, blues guitarist, and singer, singing at the Harlem Club in Brooklyn, Illinois. She worked with Albert for nine years (where he was her manager) and rubbed elbows with Soul luminaries such as Johnnie Taylor and Little Milton.
Blues legend Albert King persuaded Shirley Brown to sign with Stax Records and release her smash single “Woman To Woman.”
Soul Express Magazine describes Woman to Woman as a milestone in the history of Southern soul music. Starting with a dramatic rap, it tells of a woman determined to hold on to her man and tell it over the phone to her rival.
Hello, may I speak to Barbara. Barbara, this is Shirley. You might not know who I am, but the reason I’m calling you is because I was going through my old man’s pockets this morning and I just happened to find your name and number. So, woman to woman, I don’t think it’s being any more than fair than to call you and let you know where I’m coming from.”
Woman to Woman, lovingly referred to as the soul soap opera, was written by James Banks, Henderson Thigpen, and Eddie Marion. The songwriters offered the song first to Inez Foxx, who passed on it. “She didn’t want to do it. She felt like the rap part in the beginning of the song was for a male artist, and a song like that with a rap would be better for a person like Isaac Hayes,” James Banks told Soul Express.
The song’s recording took more than one session. But Bobby Manuel, who played guitar on the sessions, said, “The recording session (for Woman to Woman) was magical. We all knew it was a hit record. Everybody was really excited.”
Shirley was nominated for a Grammy for Best R&B Performance, Female, but Aretha Franklin and Ain’t Nothing like a Real Thing won that year.
Millie Jackson, who was also nominated in the same category that year, told QuestLove on his podcast that Aretha should have been excluded from being nominated in that category because her recording failed to meet the qualifications.
“Woman to Woman” reached No. 1 on the R&B charts and No. 22 on the pop charts. The song proved so popular that Country Music legend Barbara Mandrell covered it, and Lonnie Youngblood talked to Barbara and blew his horn on the mid-tempo answer song, Man to Woman. A year after the song’s success, Stax Records folded.
Shirley Jones chased her dreams to New York City, where Clive Davis signed her to his Arista Records label. . “I was one of the first soul singers he (Clive) signed. I was there before Whitney and Aretha. Clive said that if we could ever get the right material, we could have a hit. But he felt that the material was too Southern. He didn’t want that Southern soul sound.
Clive and Shirley Brown didn’t agree on the direction of her music. “Clive Davis wanted me to do a Bette Midler song or something like Barbra Streisand. I could probably sing those kinds of songs, but I didn’t feel them.”
In early 1977, Shirley’s first Arista single, a soul ballad called Blessed Is the Woman (With a Man like Mine) was released. “I’ve always been a great admirer of Aretha Franklin,” Shirley Brown admits. Some people feel that Shirley Brown and Aretha Franklin are similar to the Isaac Hayes/Barry White situation.”
Some speculate that Clive felt she sounded too much like Aretha Franklin, and he jeopardized her career to boost Aretha’s.
“Clive wanted to make Shirley like Whitney, “says Bobby Manuel. “He wanted to take somebody that had those chops, who could sing like that… and take them pop. The marriage really didn’t work. He was sending us pop songs, and she just wasn’t into them.”
Luther Vandross loved Shirley Brown. I would buy up all her albums in the UK for our tour bus and his dressing room.
After Shirley left Arista, she signed with several other labels. She continues to make beautiful music. Some wonderful songs in her catalog include “I Ain’t Gonna Tell”, “Love Is Built On A Strong Foundation,” and the soul ballad “I Need Somebody to Love Me.”
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.
“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 just always did it. I never sat down and said, ‘I want to be, I’m going to be,” Nancy Wilson said in a CBS Sunday Morning interview. “The voice just had a life of its own, and it just happened.”
Nancy Wison stands among the greatest performers of all time. During the 1960s, she was second only to the Beatles in record sales for Capital Records.
Nancy Wilson blurs the line between jazz and pop singers, preferring to be called a “song stylist.” Nancy Wilson attended West High School in Columbus, Ohio, where she won a talent contest and was rewarded with a role as a host for a local television show.
In 1956, Wilson auditioned and won a spot as a vocalist for Rusty Bryant’s Carolyn Club Band. Afterward, she moved to New York and began working as a secretary at the New York Institute of Technology. While in New York, Wilson became friends with jazz saxophonist “Cannonball” Adderley, who introduced her to her manager, John Levy. With Levy’s help, she landed a record deal with Capitol Records and released her songs “Guess Who I Saw Today” and “Sometimes I’m Happy.”
The exceptional storytelling of “Guess Who I Saw Today” and Nancy Wilson’s dazzling delivery inspired me to write the lyrics to “Pink Champagne.” I was fortunate to collaborate with Paulette McWilliams and Ivan Hampden Jr. on this Christmas tune.
She has appeared on several television shows and films throughout her career, including I Spy and The Cosby Show.
Nancy Wilson won a Grammy Award for her album “How Glad I Am” and hosted the Nancy Wilson Show from 1967 to 1968.
“I’m a storyteller,” said Nancy Wilson. “I believe in a song with a lyric. I want you to feel something. I want it to touch the heart.”
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 Wednesay, 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.
“Mr. Big Stuff is better to me now than 31 years ago,” said singer Jean Knight about her biggest hit. “All I have to do is sit at home and wait for the mailman.”
The New Orleans singer reached #2 on the Billboard charts in 1971 with”Mr. Big Stuff.” and received a Grammy nomination. But a decade before her success, Jean Knight cut her first demo recording in 1965, a cover of Jackie Wilson’s “Stop Doggin’ Me Around.”
One of her biggest musical influences was Etta James. “The first time she heard “All I Could Do Was Cry,” she said in an interview on YouTube, “The first time I heard that song, I wanted to be like her.”
Jean Knight recorded a series of singles with lukewarm success. When her career stalled, she left the music industry and worked at a bakery.
Songwriter Ralph Williams connected Jean Knight to record producer Wardell Quezergue a short time later. Her recording sessions with Wardell Quezergue yielded “Mr Big Stuff,” which turned around her fortunes. Reflecting on the recording session, Jean Knight said she liked “Mr. Big Stuff” lyrics but not the melody. She felt the melody didn’t match the tone and emotion of the song’s subject. At some point, the producers let Jean sing it her way. She recorded her infamous version of the song in one take. Stax Records bought the rights and released the record, which peaked at no. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and no. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
“Mr. Big Stuff” topped the US R&B chart and crossed over into the main pop chart, reaching No. 2. The Bee Gees’ hit “ How Can You Mend a Broken Heart” kept her from the top spot. Her popularity soared, and she performed her hit on TV Shows like Soul Train and received Best Female R&B Vocal Performance nominations at the 1972 Grammy Awards.
After “Mr. Big Stuff,” Jean Knight recorded a few modest hits, including “You Think You’re Hot Stuff” and “Carry On,” but disagreements with her producers at Stax led to her being dropped from the label the following year,
Jean Knight said, “I’m the type of person that I never get too big for the people that I have been knowing,” explaining why she didn’t get caught in the trappings of fame. “My friends from when I was much younger are still my friends today.”
In the 80s, she joined the local oldies circuits, where producer Isaac Bolden spotted her. He signed her to his label, Soulin. The two produced the song “You Got The Papers, But I Got The Man.” It was a novelty answer song to Richard Dimples Fields’s hit, “She’s Got Papers On Me.”
“You Got The Papers, But I Got The Man” has one of the best sassy monologues ever recorded! Jean Knight’s defiant mistress tells off her lover’s wife, “What you need, girl, is a complete overhaul, your house, your body, your face and all!” It could be straight out of a season finale of The Real Housewives franchise and requires you to fasten your seatbelt before listening.
After reading the wife from A to Z, she sweetly expresses her undying love for her man. It reminds me of Shirley Brown’s “Woman To Woman” song that my friend, DJ Downtown Donna, used to spin at the classic dive bar Pendulum on Castro Street in San Francisco.
Jean Knight also remade the novelty hit “My Toot Toot,” which became her first international hit. It reached the top ten in the United Kingdom and # 3 in South Africa.
The Louisiana Music Hall of Famer’s legacy extends beyond her music. She passionately shared her time and talents with many New Orleans community causes. She represented the heart and soul of her hometown, earning respect and admiration far beyond her musical talents.
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.
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 started singing before I could really talk, “Paulette McWilliams told Pop Matters. “I would watch all the musicals and wish I was in them.”
Over the last decades, my friend Paulette McWilliams turned her childhood fantasies into reality. She has emerged as the consummate vocalist, equally at home in rock, R&B, jazz, house, Broadway, and hundreds of commercial jingles to her credit.
Paulette McWilliams is an incredible talent with a captivating voice. Her versatility and effortless transitions between genres are remarkable. I’m so impressed by her career journey and the impact she has made in the music industry.
Paulette’s first flirtations with fame were in Chicago, where she was the lead singer in Rufus before enlisting her friend Chaka Khan. After that, she appeared on Quincy Jones’s Mellow Madness (1975) album. A stint singing duets with Marvin Gaye and Johnny Mathis soon followed. But she met Luther Vandross while she was performing as one of Bette Midler’s Harlettes. For many years, Paulette recorded and toured with Luther Vandross, and we met on a Luther tour.
Paulette’s voice is so distinctive. Her rich, warm tones, especially her low ones, give me chills and worldwide fans.
Last year, her career went into overdrive with the release of her stunning album, “These Are The Sweet Things.” The album captivated UK listeners’ hearts, and various album cuts appeared on the Sweet Rhythm and UK Soul charts for months.
Lucky for me, she agreed to share her exceptional talents, co-write, and perform the song “Mama’s Kitchen Table.” Honestly, I could have chosen to spotlight any of the wonderful songs from “These Are Sweet Things,” her lovely rendition of Luther’s “So Amazing” from her impeccable “A Woman’s Story” album, or even my favorite untraditional Christmas song, “Pink Champagne” but selfishly I chose to spotlight the lyrics to “Mama’s Kitchen Table.”
I love the way her voice sounds in this song. Her low tones are spellbinding to me. She’s in the pocket with the groove, and she just sounds funky. Paulette’s a magician in how she seamlessly made my quirky lyrics seem funky. Plus, my friend Ivan Hampden Jr. produced the heck out of this track. He’s truly a genius!!
My lyrics are inspired by my experience of accepting myself as a gay man. The dream of feeling comfortable bringing a partner home and welcoming him at our kitchen table was precious to me. The kitchen table symbolizes so many things to me. It reflects trust and honesty in a relationship. As gay men, many of us struggle with acceptance and often choose to keep that part of our lives a secret. Monsters grow in the dark.
A friend’s advice and objectivity are nonexistent in unhealthy, abusive relationships that are secretive. Denying yourself the support, encouragement, and resources of a friend’s shoulder and ear can have devastating consequences. I’ve known too many gay men who stayed in relationships because they felt they had no one to turn to. Thankfully, in my lifetime, my parents always welcomed me and my partners to their home.
I adore this woman! Please check out her music on your favorite streaming apps and her sensational rendition of “A Thousand Years” on YouTube.
You’ll be in for a treat! I hope you listen to more of her music and explore her unique artistry.
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, 2o24 at Thread Lounge 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, 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.
