Pop Reviews : ‘Divas’ Benefit Worth the Wait

The second edition of the “Divas: Simply Singing!” concert was delayed for a month by the Los Angeles riots, but it turned out to be worth the wait, and every bit as good as last year’s star-studded event.

Many of the same performers offered their talents again to the Minority AIDS Project benefit at the Scottish Rite Auditorium, and a number of gifted new artists were included. Producers Sheryl Lee Ralph and David Coury managed to keep the four-hour-plus show running on schedule, with virtually no technical glitches or slowdowns.

Among the returnees, Freda Payne (in an eye-catching see-through gown) balanced her elegant presentation with a vocal style that is clearly improving with age. Mary Wilson was almost as impressive, while Gloria Gaynor, Martha Wash and Teena Marie added a vigorous seasoning of soul to the evening.

Humorists Marsha Warfield, Liz Torres and Jenifer Lewis were joined by the boisterously funny Mother Love. But lesser-known Roxanne Reese nearly stole the show with devastatingly hilarious sendups of Diana Ross, Judy Garland, Elvis Presley and, especially, Tina Turner.

Veteran performer Linda Hopkins was a valuable addition to the cast. Her passionate reading of “Deep in the Night” set the evening’s standard for driving, tempestuous, blues-based singing. Younger vocalists Tisha Campbell, Cherrelle and Syreeta brought newer perspectives to some familiar material.

Classical soprano Anita Johnson’s sprightly upper range came as a surprise to an audience expecting a parade of pop divas, but her performance provided a welcome contrast. Among the other singers, Tata Vega’s dynamic, gospel-tinged approach was particularly noteworthy. The remainder of the large cast included model Beverly Johnson (making a non-singing appearance) and vocalists Lalah Hathaway, Tara Kemp and Alyson Williams.

The program concluded with an honorary award to Dionne Warwick, which was accepted by her son.