A special homage to the great Billie Holiday kicked off the 2017 Harlem EatUp! Festival at the Apollo last week. The tribute featured several acts showcasing artists performing songs from the Billie Holiday discography, as well as a special performance by the Alvin Ailey Dance Company of its modern piece “Portrait of Billie,” which originally premiered in 1959 at Jacob’s Pillow. Also performing were the gospel influenced jazz singer Lizz Wright; the Detroit soul singer Bettye LaVette; Taj Mahal’s daughter Deva Mahal, a vocal powerhouse blues singer; 77-year-old Stax recording artist and soul-legend William Bell; the great singer-songwriter Ruthie Foster; and more. Net proceeds from the evening tribute went to the Harlem EatUp! Foundation.
Harlem EatUp kicks off at the Apollo
