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Story and Photos by James Walker
An interesting thing happened to this writer on his way to a weekly jazz set at
Room 43 on the Southside last Sunday. Traveling his normal route, he encountered
the Pearl Fest 2009, celebrating the 15th Anniversary of Little Black Pearl
Workshop. This all day festival featured world renowned performers, drummer
Terri Lyne Carrington, and vocalists Nona Hendryx, Lalah Hathaway, and Dianne
Reeves. What a pleasant surprise!!!! This community festival also included
merchant and food vendors, a health fair, a community "Faith" service, and a
youth talent showcase.
Needless to say, patrons who packed Mandrake Park anxiously awaited the
appearance of these talented ladies. Terri Lyne orchestrated the exceptional
band that included local backup singers, guitarist Ronnie Drayton, and Marcus
Miller's keyboardist Bobby Sparks. Terri Lyne and the band warmed up the crowd
as worldclass jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves took the stage. Ms. Reeves seemed to
be sooooo at ease in this informal environment as she sang an array of songs
including the Temptations "Just My Imagination", Endangered Spieces", "Patient",
and Testify. She's such a professional and commented on how nice it was having
back up singers for a change. No matter what the venue, she always brings her
"A"game.
Ex Chicagoan Lalah Hathaway followed with a long version of "Summertime" which
featured an exceptional guitar solo, ala Jimi Hendrix. He had those strings
"crying". Lalah's highlight was her tribute to Luther Vandross with her classic
"Forever,For Always, For Love". The hometown crowd loved every moment of this
song.Throughout her set, she stepped to the side and allowed this all star band
to display their outstanding talents. They were on point all night as they
backed each of the star performers.
Last, but certainly not least, Patti Labelle's former sidekick, Nona Hendryx
climaxed this exceptional evening with an hour plus set that was up beat and
engaging. She was energized from the moment she stepped on the stage and the
crowd was very responsive and interactive. That was particularly true on the
classic Labelle tune "Lady Marmalade" as she allowed some audience members to
join her on the stage for this suggestive number.Special mention must be given
to guitarist Ronnie Drayton as the two of them often engaged in friendly
bantering and dancing.
What an evening, and this writer certainly was pleased that he decided to stop
by for a "few" minutes to enjoy the sounds of these world class
"divas".Congratulations to Little Black Workshop(located at 1060 E.47th) for 15
years of community service, and for one of Chicago best kept Musical secrets of
the summer. Let's hope next year's fest will be as successful.
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