Music seems to cloud our skies like birds and mosquitoes in the summer. Outdoor festivals with loud music (and even louder food) are all the rage this time of year. But I found a subtle, dimly lit room with a beautiful alto voice in it, and the alto was none other than legendary Grammy winner Rita Coolidge.
Ms. Coolidge turned St. Charles’ Arcada Theatre into a hot tub for 900 as she bathed her audience in the warmth of her voice.
She started in the 60s as a backing vocalist for Bonnie & Delaney and Joe Cocker before finding massive success as a solo artist. Hearing hits like “We’re All Alone” and “(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher And Higher” was uplifting and memorable, with Coolidge in fine voice and her band top notch.
Her recordings with ex-husband Kris Kristofferson also spawned many hits, a few of which were played on the evening.
As I sat, wading in the tranquility, I was treated to over 120 minutes of music and stories. Hearing that Clapton and his adoring female fans were the inspiration behind her song “Superstar” (made famous by The Carpenters) was interesting. Hearing her explain how incredible it was to take the stage with Eric Clapton and George Harrison as a member of Bonnie & Delaney was captivating. Simply hearing her soft speaking voice exuding elegance and class at every turn made you feel good inside.
Rita Coolidge just released her autobiography, Delta Lady: A Memoir, and it’s a wonderful read. If you get the audiobook version, you can have Ms. Coolidge read it to you as she is the narrator!
