Chicago actress-singer Julia Huff and The Company Band are presenting A Tribute to Phyllis Hyman that reflects the career and music of the late R&B songstress. Because of her role and Tony nomination in the Broadway musical Sophisticated Ladies, Hyman is often referred to as "The Sophisticated Lady." Among her millions of fans were performers Roberta Flack, George Benson, Stevie Wonder, Jon Lucien, Ashford & Simpson, and Norman Connors. She worked with the Fatback Band, Norman Connors Pharaoh Sanders and many other entertainers and bands.
Born in Philadelphia and raised in Pittsburgh, Hyman's promise showed early when she won a scholarship to a music school.. After graduation, she spent several years touring and singing with various bands until she was signed to Roadshow Records in 1975; she also recorded for Arista and Philadelphia International. The production teams of Mtume & Reggie Lucas and Narada Michael Walden & Thom Bell gave her material that showcased her skill with sophisticated ballads. Between performances and recording, she also appeared on movie soundtracks and television commercials. Hyman's hits include Living All Alone, Somewhere in My Lifetime, I Don't Want to Lose You, Riding the Tiger, Betcha By Golly Wow, Living All Alone, You Know How To Love Me, and Loving You - Losing You. Tragically, Hyman took her own life in 1995; it was a few weeks before her 46th birthday.
A Tribute to Phyllis Hyman Featuring Julia Huff will be presented at 8 pm on Saturday May 1 and at 4pm on Sunday May 2 at the DuSable Museum of American History, dusablemuseum.org , 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago. There will be a VIP reception on Saturday at 7 pm. The opening act will be "Chicago Idol" winner Maurice Mahon. Tickets are available through Friday at M Lounge, 1520 S. Wabash, Chicago. Tickets will also be available at the door. For more information, call 312.447-0201 0r 773.885-8778.
A TRIBUTE TO PHYLLIS HYMAN
8pm on Saturday, May 1
4 pm on Sunday, May 2
DuSable Museum of American History
740 E. 56th Place, Chicago
773.885-8778 or 312. 447-0201
