Aretha Franklin/Etta James Tributes

When you attend a performance by The Original Sassy Kat, get ready for an immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a live concert featuring legendary artists like Aretha Franklin or Etta James. The energy in the room will be electric, with powerful vocals and heartfelt renditions that capture the spirit of these soul music icons.

Picture yourself being whisked away in time, enveloped by the rich sounds of classic hits, where every note resonates deep within your heart. The atmosphere will pulse with the same passion and intensity that defined Aretha and Etta's unforgettable shows, making you feel truly part of something special.

If an opera is on the program, the experience will reach new heights. You’ll feel as though you’ve just enjoyed a prestigious performance at an Italian opera house. The grandeur of the production, combined with stunning vocal artistry, will evoke the timeless elegance and emotion that mark the finest operatic traditions. You’ll be swept away by the music’s beauty, the performance’s artistry, and the captivating ambiance—leaving you with memories that linger long after the final note has faded.

Whether it’s soul music or opera, prepare for an extraordinary evening filled with the essence of live performance, leaving you inspired and thoroughly captivated.

I grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where my passion for singing blossomed at an early age, primarily influenced by my family and stunning entertainers like my aunts and uncles. My love for music truly ignited when I first heard Aretha Franklin's "I Never Loved A Man" in 1967. From that moment on, I was determined to learn every song she ever recorded. By the time I turned 13, I'd earned the nickname "Baby Franklin," a tribute from my mom, who fueled my musical journey by sharing the works of Aretha Franklin and Mahalia Jackson.

In 1995, I took a bold step and launched the Original Sassy Kat Entertainment Company to pursue music on a part-time basis. After three and a half years of vocal training at the Center for Creative Studies Music School, I embraced my mezzo-soprano voice. I delved into the world of opera, which significantly improved my singing abilities across different genres.

During a memorable trip to Italy, I had the incredible opportunity to perform the Italian opera piece "O Mio Babbino Caro" by Giacomo Puccini for an Italian audience, who were both surprised and delighted by my rendition.

My professional singing career kicked off unexpectedly in 1999 while I was working as a concierge at the Clinton Street Restaurant Bar & Grill. The owner, enchanted by my performances of "Respect" and "Dr. Feelgood," invited me to sing weekly. Since then, I've had the honor of paying tribute to numerous legendary artists, including Patsy Cline, Peggy Lee and Sarah Vaughan.

If you're in search of a polished performer who brings unforgettable shows to life with flair and elegance, look no further—that's me!

1. Microphone Setup:
- Microphone: Use a high-quality dynamic or condenser microphone (e.g., Shure Beta SM58 or similar).
- Microphone Stand: An adjustable stand to hold the microphone at the appropriate height and angle.
- Microphone Cable: An XLR cable for connecting the microphone to the sound system.

2. Sound System:
- PA System: Ensure an adequate public address system suitable for the venue's size, including speakers and subwoofers.
- Mixer: An audio mixer for controlling sound levels, equalization (EQ), and effects.
- Amplifiers: If necessary, amplifiers to boost the signal to the speakers.

3. Monitors:
- Stage Monitors: Floor monitors or in-ear monitors (IEMs) to provide the vocalist with a clear sound mix of their voice and instruments.
- Monitor Mix: The ability to customize monitor mixes according to the vocalist’s preferences.

4. Cables and Connections:
- XLR Cables: Sufficient high-quality XLR cables for microphones and speakers.
- Power Cords: Extension cords and power strips to ensure all equipment is powered.

5. Lighting:
- Stage Lighting: Adequate lighting to highlight the performer, including front lights and backlights.
- Spotlights: If available, spotlights to focus on the vocalist during key moments.

6. Performance Area:
- Stage Space: Sufficient space for the vocalist to move around comfortably.
- Backdrop: An optional branding or thematic backdrop to enhance the visual experience.

7. Additional Equipment:
- Music Stand: For holding sheet music or lyric sheets if needed.
- Backup Microphone: A second microphone as a backup in case of failure.

8. Technical Support:
- Sound Engineer: A qualified sound engineer to manage sound levels and monitor the overall audio quality during the performance.
- Sound Check: Time allocated for a sound check before the performance to ensure optimal sound quality.

9. Accessories:
- Vocal Effects: An optional vocal effects processor for reverb, delay, or other effects, if desired.
- Feedback Eliminator: Equipment to prevent feedback issues during the performance.
- Headphones: Closed-back headphones are recommended for monitoring during rehearsals and recordings (suitable for medium to large venues).
- PA System: A portable or fixed public address system with sufficient power for the size of the venue is necessary (applicable to all venues).
- Mixer: A multi-channel audio mixer is required for sound control and balance (suitable for medium to large venues).
- Monitors: Stage monitors or in-ear monitors should be utilized for clear sound feedback during performances (applicable to medium to large venues).

10. Vocal Accessories:
- Pop Filter: Recommended to reduce plosive sounds during recordings (suitable for medium to large venues).
- Sheet Music/Prompter: Necessary for live performances and rehearsals (suitable for medium to large venues).
- Water Bottle: Hydration is critical for maintaining vocal health (applicable to all venues).

11. Wardrobe Room & Performance Attire/Costumes:
- Stage Outfits: Professional costumes or attire appropriate for the performance genre are required (for large venues only).
- Comfortable Footwear: Footwear that allows for movement and provides support during performances is essential (for large venues only).
- Full-Length Mirror: For checking outfits and makeup.
- Bright Vanity Lighting: For makeup application.
- Seating: Two comfortable chairs for the artist and valet while changing or resting.
- Clothing Rack: For hanging outfits and keeping them wrinkle-free; a fabric steamer/valet is necessary for large venues.
- Performance Attire: The artist shall provide performance attire for small venues.

12. Technical Skills:
- Sound Check: Conduct sound checks to ensure optimal sound quality before performances.

13. Rehearsal Setup:
- Rehearsal Space: Access to a soundproof room or studio with adequate acoustics for practice is necessary (suitable for medium to large venues).
- Recording Equipment: A basic recording setup is required for self-evaluation and practice (suitable for medium to large venues).

14. Staff Knowledge of Technology:
- Audio Software: Familiarity with recording and editing software, such as Pro Tools and GarageBand, is essential.
- Live Performance Software: An understanding of software utilized for backing tracks or live looping, such as Ableton Live, is required (applicable to medium to large venues).

15. Vocal Health and Wellness:
- Warm-ups and Cool-downs: Proper warm-ups, cool-downs, and breaks during activities are essential to maintain vocal health (applicable to all venues).

16. Backup Plans:
- Backup Equipment: Ensure the availability of spare microphones, cables, and other essential equipment, including electrical outlets and connection cords.
- Vocal Backup: This will be provided by the artist unless the client has copyrighted music that must be used (applicable to medium to large venues).

This comprehensive list ensures that the vocalist is thoroughly prepared for live performances and recordings, enabling the delivery of consistently exceptional results.