January 12, 2013 was probably one the biggest nights of my career and life. It would be my return to the world-renown Nighttown in my hometown of Cleveland OH after 3 years. I would be making an appearance with the largest ensemble I've had thus far as an artist, a 9-piece band; rhythm section, background vocalists and a horn section. Having the concert so close to the holidays was an extreme challenge on top of the fact I was in the studio doing the final mixes for the album to prepare it for release earlier in the week.

 

We worked over a week and a half period to put the show together which was no easy task. I've never been so stressed in my whole career. It was by God's grace that I didn't lose it! :-) Having a good team of like-minded people working with you is key to your success and execution of your plan. I've been blessed to have that. My musical director & bassist Hosea Harris, Jr. worked out the transitions, my chief background vocalist Will Sowell assisted me with the vocalists and my newest addition, leader of the Love & Faith Horns Frank Walton arranged the horns for the show.

 

The show sold out 3 days before, copies the new album arrived a day before and we were set to go. Showtime! The venue was packed over an hour before the show began. This was the highest anticipated concert of the year so far. The audience was amazing and I gave my all to them with every note I sang. The band blew them away. It was by far the best show I've ever done. I challenge myself to top myself with each performance...so far, so good. It was truly "Something to Remember" and the talk of the town in a beautiful way. Praise GOD! Now it's time to prepare to go on the road this Spring to promote this "Wonderful" album.

 

Hope to see you soon,

 

alvin