Singing for my Diva Mondays is a joy. The comments are projected on a big screen and every single one gives me life. Everyone is filled with such joy and they are there for me - for us - cheering us on and giving me happiness that comes only from performing. It's hard because sometimes because I think no one is showing up and sometimes the numbers are scary: Will we generate enough tips so I can pay my devoted and wonderfully talented band? Whatever the tally turns out to be there is always one …
The Adventures of Permanent Lifestyle Change Girl: No Girdle today!
As I prepared this morning for my noon o'clock concert I reached for the long summer gown (with sleeves) and sandals to perform in, then I looked at the support garment (girdle) that I was planning to wear under it and then I glanced at the more athletic wear (wicking fabric long shorts and loose flowing brightly colored tunic) folded neatly, alongside sneakers which give me much needed support for my knees. I thought to myself: "standing elegantly but constricted in cute flat sandals with …
Tonight’s the Night!
It's Monday and in ten hours I will be hitting the stage with the return of my Nina Simone show at City Winery Chicago. I have NO idea how many tickets have sold. I checked a week and a half ago and the low sales frightened me. The venue seemed secure that the show will sell well. Of course I am not so sure. I never am. Folks say: "you always sell out!" "You always pack the house!" I never count on that. I push, push, push the show until I am crazy. But you never know ... Dress is laid out. …
Bringing My Nina Simone Show back to Chicago. Monday, November 7th
I first performed my Nina Simone tribute in January 2013 at City Winery Chicago. We sold out. It was my first performance there and my first ticketed sold out show. and now after sold out shows in NYC and Atlanta, I am bringing it back home. The show has evolved. I have evolved as a performer and as a person. Singing Nina Simone's music is quite like coming home for me. And performing her protest songs during these times, on the night before the election, well, it's just crazy Kismet don't you …
Nina Simone & Me.
I'm getting into Nina-mode. Taking on this show is a challenge on some levels (logistically, financially) but it is also the easiest thing I have ever done. Many have questioned my choice to bring the band with me to my show in Atlanta. Why not pick up musicians in Atlanta? The answer is simple: I want a certain level of comfort and ease on stage because I want to be totally free of worry. I need to have my guys (The Shivers) behind me because they know me and will guarantee the best …