En Vogue accumulated awards and nominations from the outset of their success as one of the most popular female vocal groups of all time. More than 20 years later, they boast the same members — Terry Ellis, Cindy Herron, Maxine Jones and Dawn Robinson — and the same rich voices, energy and personalities that set them apart. This week, they return to Birchmere for two bedazzling evenings of their greatest hits. Unlike her colleagues, who are still based in California, Jones makes her home near Charlottesville.
While in the studio cutting a new album scheduled for release in a few weeks, she took a few moments to talk about the joy of singing with three dynamic women and the challenge each has faced while balancing a rewarding career with family demands.
| ONSTAGE |
| En Vogue with L. Young |
| » Where: The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Avenue |
| » When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday |
| » Info: $59.50; 703-549-7500; birchmere.com |
“I, and at least two others in En Vogue, were focused on a solo career at the outset,” Jones said. “Even though we were all strong singers, it was easy for us to share the stage. Competition was never a problem. I love our music because it’s a lot like the music I listened to growing up. We see lots of young people at our concerts who may not have been born when we first got together, but they love what they’re hearing from us that’s so different from the music being written today.”
With the advent of a new, young fan base, stalwart fans who go back to the beginning, the upcoming release of the album, and a reality show on the horizon, En Vogue anticipates a busy future.
“We love performing at Birchmere and look forward to showing the audience that we still have it, can get out there, interact and be relevant,” Jones said. “Our fans can expect our greatest hits together with all-original numbers.”
Songwriter/vocalist/producer L. Young opens for En Vogue with songs from his latest album, “Love is a Verb.” He says the show will rekindle craving for the kind of melodic, romantic numbers penned and performed by Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder.
“Opening for En Vogue, an iconic female group of the past few decades, is a huge honor. I know that our Birchmere audience will appreciate music with deep meanings that evoke change in people. Many out there are waiting for our kind of music.”
