Pop and Jazz 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 event.

Many of the same performers offered their talents again to the Minority AIDS Project benefit at the Scottish Rite Auditorium on Sunday, 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.

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.