On Thursday, July 10th, veteran singer and actress Melba Moore headlined 54 Below in New York City for a great turnout.
Moore is a three-time Grammy-nominated vocalist and a Tony award-winning actress
Moore kicked off her set with a medley of songs from the hit Broadway musical “Hair” and segued into “Purlie” and “I Got Love,” where she displayed her trademark pipes.
She told the Big Apple audience members that she had been in a relationship with Clifton Davis, and they had their own variety show together.
After “Stranger in Paradise,” she delivered a powerhouse version of “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Misérables,” where she brought the house down.
She showcased her crisp, sultry voice on “Falling” and equally smooth and sassy was “Mind Up Tonight.”
There was sheer euphoria in the room the moment she picked up the pace with her upbeat dance hits “Love’s Comin’ at Ya” and “You Stepped into My Life.”
She concluded her set with more classic numbers such as “I Concentrate On You” by Cole Porter, and Moore tipped her hat to the late but great Lena Horne with “Stormy Weather,” which earned her a lengthy standing ovation.
The Verdict
Overall, Melba Moore was superb at 54 Below in New York City. She commanded the stage well, and the audience knew that they were in the presence of a living musical legend. They were left in total awe of her raw, natural talent.
She appeared comfortable on stage and was able to take her fans and listeners on a journey through time with her music.
Moore was able to interact with the audience well, thus showcasing her rich storytelling ability, and she made them feel as if they were in her living room.
Hearing her live in Manhattan felt like an open channel, where the music flowed right through her… in a controlled, divine, and inspired fashion.
Ms. Moore proved to be one true song stylist in the same ranks as Nancy Wilson (the jazz singer), Sarah Vaughan, and Dianne Reeves. Whoever has yet to see Melba Moore live is truly missing out… her vocals are pristine and heavenly, and she is epitome of class and grace.
This show was a substantial indication that all of these classic jazz, R&B, Motown, and big band standards will never go out of style. Her live concert at 54 Below garnered an A rating.
For more information on Melba Moore, follow her on Instagram.
Read More: Melba Moore interview.
