Photo Credit: Apple Music
Verzuz has reimagined the way we see music and artistry. The online platform has allowed various singers and songwriters like Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight to reminisce and perform their hits throughout the decades.
The night started off with a Dj keeping the virtual crowd entertained, from classics to present day crowd pleasers. The tone for the night was set. As Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle graced the stage, positivity, joy and respect exuded through the screen. What a time to be alive and to be able to witness such grace and royalty. For the first thirty minutes these legendary artists talked of family, relationships, culinary skills and much more.
The opening conversation reminded me of a weekend at my Grandma’s house. She would catch up with her friends and talk for hours about life and the good old days. While millions of comments flooded the live stream in favor of one or both the artists, fans were seemingly eager to start the battle, hoping for their favorite song to be played.
As the battle began, Gladys Knight graced us with her sultry vocals, and left me impressed with how her voice is still as powerful and smooth as it has always been.While most artists who have participated in the battle choose to let their records play and sing over them, Knight chose to perform! She sang each of her songs with all of the power and energy of a twenty-something year old. From the sequins pantsuit to the effortless vocals, she was certainly in her element.
Unlike Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle chose to sing only a few of her hit records but didn’t disappoint in stage presence. Labelle wore a perfectly tailored suit, accompanied by her signature sleeves and classic pumps that she eventually kicked off at the height of the show to get more comfortable. The chemistry between these two artists was impeccable. They shared stories of the songs they sang for one another as well as producers they’ve worked with through the years. Sharing these stories helped fans see the normalcy of true friendship in the industry.
This Verzuz battle was a true master class to all artists and people who plan on working in the music industry. Knight and Labelle sang each other’s songs with pride and joy; complementing vocal movements and harmonizing techniques. What I loved the most about this Verzuz battle is that you forgot it was a battle at all. With so many timeless hits, the two hour set felt like no time had passed at all. Each artist showed gratitude and respect for younger artists like Jennifer Hudson, Monica, Brandy and Fantasia. The level of wisdom and sincerity in the room made you feel like you were there. I know in every battle there has to be a winner, but I think it’s safe to say the artist inspired more unity than division.
