It’s sad when you see performers who once provided dazzling shows full of heartfelt singing and warm interplay with the audience using tired techniques such as multimedia shows to carry their concerts.
It’s a fair bet that no one who attends the upcoming Gladys Knight benefit concert will have such an experience. Critics from coast to coast are bubbling with praise about Knight?s current tour, noting her strong voice, energetic stage presence, and down-home conversational style with the audience.
“I’m just happy to be anywhere,” Knight, 62, told fans at a recent show, according to the Dallas Morning News.
That down-home quality is no surprise to Calvin Baker, chairman of the Gladys Knight Benefit Concert. All proceeds from the show, Baker said, will go to benefit the Walters Art Museum. In addition, the Brown Challenge Art Fund will match every dollar raised. The fund, established in 2001 by Eddie and Sylvia Brown, earmarks the funds for the purchase of works of arts by African-American artists for the museum?s permanent collection. Baker said he?d be hard-pressed to find a more exciting performer to headline the benefit.
“Gladys Knight is a legend,” Baker said. “If you?ve ever seen her live in concert, she puts on a fabulous show. … That?s why half the people coming to this concert are from outside the region.”
If her recent shows are any indication, the Motown legend will sing a variety of those classic songs, including “If I Were Your Woman,” “Nitty Gritty” and “Friendship Train.”
At some recent shows, Knight?s brother Merald “Bubba” Knight, one of the original Pips, joined her on stage, engaging in some shtick. There?s no conformation he will be in attendance at the Baltimore show, but Knight will be backed by a 16-piece piece band. Whatever the evening holds, expect Knight?s magical voice, personality and million-dollar smile to shine throughout.
IF YOU GO
Gladys Knight
Venue: The Lyric Opera House
140 W. Mount Royal Ave., Baltimore
Time: 8 p.m.
Date: Saturday, March 10
Tickets: $48-$75, available at Ticketmaster or by calling 410-547-SEAT
