I AM: CELINE DION Offers an Intimate Look at the Iconic Singer’s Life and Career
CeCe Winans, the best-selling and most-awarded female gospel artist of all time, delivered an awe-inspiring performance at the Kings Theatre in Brooklyn on Thursday, October 12, 2023. This concert marked a significant milestone in her career as it was her first nationwide tour in over a decade, aptly named the Believe For It tour, which encompassed 26 cities and concluded this month after a year of intermittent shows across the country.
Winans, with her unmatched talent and remarkable achievements, captivated the audience with a dynamic showcase of her biggest hits spanning her illustrious career. From classics like “Alabaster Box” to newer tracks from her recent album “Believe For It,” released in early 2021, she left no stone unturned in delivering a memorable experience for her fans.
The concert, much to the delight of the audience, featured a full-band experience that had been eagerly anticipated for over a decade. Additionally, gospel musician Todd Dulaney graced the stage alongside Winans, collaborating on the powerful track “King of Glory,” a song he had penned. The crowd was electrified by their joint performance, which showcased the harmonious blend of their voices and musical prowess.
Another highlight of the evening was when Jenn Johnson, a talented singer-songwriter and co-writer of “Goodness of God” with Bethel Music, took the stage to perform with Winans. The song, which Winans had included in her latest album, had soared on music charts and resonated deeply with the audience. The fusion of their voices created an atmosphere of pure euphoria, leaving the attendees in awe of their collective talent.
Throughout the night, Winans exuded a spirit of gratitude and perseverance, encapsulated by her poignant statement, “the blessing is in continuing.” Her unwavering dedication to her craft and her consistent delivery of soul-stirring gospel music have solidified her status as one of the most influential artists of our time.
CeCe Winans’ concert at the Kings Theatre was a testament to her enduring impact on the gospel music scene. With a staggering 15 Grammy Awards, 31 Grammy Nominations, 23 Dove Awards, and 15 Stellar Awards to her name, she has carved a permanent place in music history. Her performance was a celebration of her remarkable journey and a reminder of the profound blessings that come from unwavering dedication and steadfast belief.
An extraordinary weekend filled with inspiration and hope unfolded as New Yorkers had the privilege of witnessing the legendary Jane Goodall in action. From the moment she took the stage at Kings Theatre to deliver her captivating presentation, “Reasons for Hope,” to the thought-provoking conversation at the renowned 92nd Street Y, Dr. Goodall’s enduring optimism for our planet illuminated the hearts and minds of all in attendance.
Dr. Goodall, a world-renowned primatologist, environmentalist, and UN Messenger of Peace, has dedicated her life to studying and protecting chimpanzees and advocating for conservation efforts. Her unwavering commitment to creating a better world for future generations is truly awe-inspiring.
During her presentation at Kings Theatre on Saturday September 30th, Dr. Goodall shared stories of resilience, highlighting the importance of individual action and collective responsibility in tackling the environmental challenges we face. Her words resonated deeply, reminding us that even small acts can have a profound impact.
What struck me most was Dr. Goodall’s emphasis on the power of the youth. She spoke just as passionately the following evening on Sunday October 1st at the 92nd Street Y, about the role young people play in shaping the future and encouraged them to become active agents of change. Her ability to instill hope in the hearts of the next generation was a testament to her belief that together, we can make a difference.
Leaving both events, one couldn’t help but feel grateful for having witnessed Dr. Goodall’s unwavering dedication and contagious spirit. She is undeniably a gift to our world—a beacon of hope shining brightly amidst the challenges we face. Her legacy serves as a reminder that each of us has the power to contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate future.
In a world that often seems marred by uncertainty, Jane Goodall’s extraordinary work and her enduring optimism remind us that the actions we take today can positively impact tomorrow.
July 1st annually marks International Reggae Day, and what better way for New Yorkers to celebrate the culture than with a live music extravaganza?
Reggae Love Fest took place last month at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, featuring legendary artists such as Shabba Ranks, Capleton, Barrington Levy, Elephant Man, Mad Cobra, Yellow Man, Mad Lion, and Little Vicious. These iconic figures have left an indelible mark on Jamaican music, particularly during the 90s when they epitomized the popular fusion of hip-hop and reggae, paying homage to this genre during the concert. Among the dancehall royalty present was Lady Patra, who captivated us with her timeless album “Queen of the Pack” released 30 years ago.
Patra, the revered reggae female deejay, opened her set with a powerful rendition of fellow Jamaican singer Grace Jones’ classic “Pull Up to the Bumper.” This song, which served as the first single from Patra’s second album “Scent of Attraction” in 1995, became an instant hit in the U.S. Just like Grace Jones, Patra has become an icon, boasting a music career that spans over three decades. Her significance was evident as she stood as the sole female artist in the lineup.
For those who recall, Patra’s music videos for “Think,” filmed in Brooklyn alongside the late Lyn Collins, or “Romantic Call,” featuring rapper Yo-Yo and a guest appearance by Tupac Shakur, are unforgettable. Vanity Fair once acclaimed her as the first international queen of Jamaican dancehall, and even after three decades, she still holds the prestigious title, reigning supreme. Now, she has returned with her latest two singles: “Love Your Body” and “Gimmi Way.”
Last week, Patra, alongside Vicious and Mad Lion, shared the stage at the 2023 BET Awards in Los Angeles. They delivered a sensational medley of their greatest hits, commemorating 50 years of hip-hop and honoring the pioneers who shaped the genre through reggae influences.
Patra at Barclays Center (by Richard Holmes)
Patra at Barclays Center (by Richard Holmes)
Patra at Barclays Center (by Richard Holmes)
Were the whole of Brooklyn Made a “house,” as they say in ball culture, Durand Bernarr most certainly was the father of that house last week.
Ahead of their forthcoming studio release: I Am The Moon.
Some say that the Irish are inherently lucky. Maybe that’s how I scored a ticket to the hottest show in town on the evening of St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2022.
On March 5, 2020, Dermot Kennedy played a sold-out show at Radio City Music Hall.
Celine Dion opened her show at Barclays Center with the emotional power-ballad “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.”