At Last - The Etta James Story
I found a dream that I could speak to. The fantastic soul singer is well known for songs including ‘Something's Got A Hold On Me’, ‘Stormy Weather’ and the timeless number ‘At Last’. Etta James’ rich and elegant voice took her to stardom, though her journey in life was not the smoothest. The passion-filled performance is set to tour across the UK throughout September and October. Vika Bull plays the lead role and she is accompanied by The Essential R&B Band. Described as a narrative concert, it comprises of 23 songs and the account of her life.
Following its world premiere in Melbourne in 2013, the show has since repeatedly packed theatres throughout Australia and New Zealand. In 2016 the show returned to Melbourne for a sell-out season at The Arts Centre and July saw the show triumph for a third season at The Sydney Opera House.
Telling the story of soul legend Etta James’ turbulent life and features some of her most beloved songs including Tell Mama, Something’s Got A Hold On Me, Sugar On The Floor, the heart rending I’d Rather Go Blind, her iconic signature song At Last and more.
“When I started in this business at 17 she was the one I listened to everyday. I liked the way she sang with power and honesty … Etta doesn’t really sing sh*t songs and is a very funny woman. A devil!” Vika Bull puts her heart and soul into this unforgettable show and is joined on stage by some of Australia’s finest and funkiest musicians.
During a long and tumultuous career that saw her win six Grammy Awards and a star on The Hollywood Walk Of Fame, Etta James has influenced a vast array of artists from Diana Ross, Janis Joplin, Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones and Rod Stewart and is acknowledged as inspiring the careers of a new generation of singers from Christina Aguilera, Joss Stone, Adele and the late Amy Winehouse.
Sadly, Etta’s frantic recording and touring schedule coincided with her ever-growing addiction problems and over time she not only sang the blues…she lived the blues. Mercifully, her passion for life and strength of character saw her conquer her demons and she continued to record and perform into her seventies.
With respect, this is her story.
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