Last night was one of the most incredible experiences I’ve had in a long time and it had nothing to do with food. Well, the food you put in your mouth and chew and savour and swallow.
Last night was all about food for the soul.
The phenomenal voice of songstress Vika Bull, singing the songs of the legendary Etta James.
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| Vika Bull singing Etta James |
Etta released 28 albums. I’m pretty glad I didn’t have to choose the 15 or so songs that were performed last night. My favourites were included – Something’s Got A Hold On Me, Pushover, I’d Rather Go Blind, and of course, her iconic signature song At Last.
Remember when Beyonce sang At Last at President Obama’s inauguration in 2009? Well Vika sang it better last night.
I’ve been in love with Vika’s voice (and that of her talented sister Linda) since I was a teenager and first heard them singing backup for The Black Sorrows. Who can forget those harmonies on The Crack Up, Chained to the Wheel and Hold On To Me?
Way back in 1994 I rushed to buy their first album, Vika and Linda (produced by the legendary Paul Kelly), and was lucky enough to score the limited edition bonus disc with five gospel songs. I think I have played the gospel disc over 1,000 times. You only have to hear it once to understand why.
I saw Vika and Linda at The Basement in Sydney in 1997 and was mesmerised. Vika’s voice was stunning then, and it was even better last night. Full of pathos and passion.
If you are in or even remotely near Brisbane, go and see At Last: The Etta James Story. It’s playing at the Brisbane Powerhouse until Saturday 9 June. Yep, only 5 more shows. Tonight, Friday, two on Saturday, Sunday.
GO AND GET TICKETS.
It is one of the best performances I’ve ever been to. And I’ve been very lucky to have been to a lot.
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| Meeting Vika after the show – a huge thrill! I just wish I’d remembered to bring all my Vika and Linda CDs for her to sign. Next time… |
A huge thanks to Kath Rose & Associates for giving me two tickets to the show last night. I absolutely loved every second of it.
Great post! Vika was completely amazing. She is a rare talent to sound so constantly perfect live. I’d happily sit through another night. Rachel x
Thanks Brisbane Powerhouse is an amazing venue we are blessed to be playing there with the show.
The Powerhouse is such an amazing venue.
It’s an excellent venue.
All that time we spent together and I never realised you were a Black Sorrows fan. Even if it was only for the Bull sisters back-up. Love the new blog. Miss you.
Craig
Thanks Craig – we definitely should catch up again soon. I love the Black Sorrows!