Martha Reeves is indeed a "soul survivor".
Since her beginnings with
Motown in l962, Martha has seen so many of her peers pass on--Paul Williams,
Eddie Kendricks, David Ruffin, (all of whom were members of the Temptations),
Marvin Gaye,
Mary Wells,
Florence Ballard, and too many more--but she has survived to continue
singing and entertaining audiences all over the world. Although
the Vandellas were
not Martha's first group, they were, of course, the most
enduring. Throughout many personnel changes (including Martha's two
sisters, Delphine and Lois), Martha has remained true to her group, and even
tours with
the original Vandellas--Rosalind and Annette--when their schedules permit.
Martha exudes a charismatic presence on stage, and her soulful voice
continues
to be a commanding one. It is interesting to note the she had the same
vocal coach as the late Florence Ballard of
the Supremes. If you listen closely, you can hear the similarities
in their voices. *(in my opinion, of course!)
Martha has also recorded some terrific solo albums, including "The Rest
of My Life", "We Meet Again", "Gotta Keep Movin", and my personal all-time
favourite "Martha Reeves: Produced by
Richard Perry". Martha sings her heart out on the eleven tracks on
this album, which starts off with a soul-stirring cover of Van Morrison's
"Wild Night", and concludes with a gospel-flavoured rendition of Jimmy
Cliff's "Many Rivers To Cross". This album is finally available on
CD! It can be purchased at www.seeformiles.com.
Martha has recently toured with the Fats Waller tribute musical "Ain't
Misbehavin'". I was fortunate enough to visit with Martha backstage in
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, while she was on this tour. She was
extremely gracious, and took the time to sit and chat with me. I was
thrilled! Of course, she looked terrific. Here is a picture of
that historic encounter, taken Dec/96. (l-r, Don(me), Martha, Gord)
Martha Reeves
still has much to offer the entertainment world.
Here's hoping that we will be seeing and hearing much more from her in
the future. If you haven't read it yet, her autobiography "Dancing in
the Street: Confessions of a Motown Diva" is a fascinating read. In the
book, Martha gives her own unique insight into the beginnings of her
career, the heyday of Motown, her personal struggles, and her strong
family ties. Don't forget to visit Martha Reeves Official Web Site. For some great recent pics of Martha, check out Martha Reeves: Party in the Park. Also take a look at Bama's Martha Reeves 1998 Pics! Thank you, Martha, for gracing our lives with your
talent, charm, and honesty.
