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Arts
& Entertainment 2007 Season / Vikki Carr
Friday, November 02, 2007, 8:00 pm CST at Jacob
Brown Auditorium
Important:
Vikki Carr is one of the best loved and most
accomplished entertainers in the United States,
Latin America and Europe. The three time Grammy
Award winner, whose international success spans
four decades, has released 59 best selling
recordings. She has performed for the Queen of
England, five United States Presidents, wartime
soldiers in Vietnam and sold out audiences
around the world. She has worked in radio,
television, film and theater. Her music embraces
two languages and she is among the first artists
to bridge the cultures of the United States and
Latin America, paving the way for many
performers today. |
VIKKI
CARR ROCKS BROWNSVILLE!
She's baaaaaaaaack!
Our favorite
songbird flew in to Brownsville and lit up the stage
at the Jacob Brown
Auditorium on November 2, 2007.
Vikki began her
show with "Love Song" and then proceeded to
reel off a string
of hits that spanned an almost 50 year singing
career.
She captivated us
with "Make It Rain", "Grande, Grande,
Grande",
"Today I
Started Loving You Again", "Spanish
Harlem", "Y Volvere",
just to name a few
as Vikki's show ran about an hour and 40 minutes
non-stop!
Vikki had her
adoring audience eating out of her hand!
Throughout
the show you could
hear whispers of, "She's so beautiful!",
"What a voice!", "Oh, I love that
song!", "She's so thin!".
"Que
mujer tan elegante!"
Vikki rocked the
house with a seven piece band which included a
latin
percussionist right here from Brownsville! Vikki
also brought
along two dynamite
backup singers!
Vikki closed her
show with "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" with
the extra verse as
the encore.
Needless to say,
Vikki rec'd a well-deserved standing ovationa
and left the stage
to chants of "Otra, otra, otra!"
After the show
Vikki came out to meet with some of her fan club
members and was most gracious to us. We
presented her with
flowers and some
Carr Bars which were made lovingly by Patty Weidling.
Vikki sat with us for a group photo and in case you
are
wondering what she
is holding in her hand, it's a Vikki Carr Caliente
Carr Bar!
We all had a
wonderful evening that we will never forget.
Thank you, Vikki.
Muchisimas gracias. Your graciousness will never
be forgotten.
Hasta pronto!
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Vikki Carr with Cookie
Wimer
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Starring Vikki Carr and the
San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Frank Paul Fetta.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
There are few performers today who
can walk on a stage
and mesmerize an audience, but Ms. Vikki Carr can do
it everytime, and she did so on the 13th of October
2007, in San Bernadino, California. The minute she
took to the stage, she was able to take all of us on a
journey of heartaches, heartbreaks, and hope, as she
weaved through her repertoire of songs that were and
are chart-topping hits, turn-table favorites, and
concert-only "musts."
Ms. Carr began the show with her signature concert
opening "Love Song" which set the mood for the entire
performance. And what a performance! As I sat there
listening to her magnificent voice belt out "I Can't
Stop Loving You," (a tribute as much to her parents
who have now gone to a better place as well as being a
tribute to the great Rhythm & Blues artist, Ray
Charles) I couldn't help but realize that I am
listening to a musical legend. Ms. Carr has been in
the business now for almost 50 years, and in that time
she has had the chance to record some of the best
songs ever composed as well as to perform with some
other legends who are no longer with us. In some ways,
it is as if she is carrying the torch for all the
performers who were of an era when "entertainment" and
"entertainer" were more than just words but truely an
artform.
While it would have been impossible for Ms. Carr to
have presented all the styles and genres of music she
has had the opportunity to perform, she was able to
add some elements in her show that highlight just what
a dynamic performer she really is. Proud of her
current CD sells, she mentioned how her "The Ways to
Love a Man / Nashville By Carr" CD has been revived,
and she was more than proud to showcase a few of the
songs from the EMI UK release that contains both
albums on one disc. "Singing My Song" and "Empty Words
of Love" were two of the handful of country tunes she
performed to a well-pleased audience.
Overall, her performance was breath-taking and, as
usual, made me want to hear more. I am sure that, for
courtesy of the awesome musicians she was performing
with (La Sinfonia Mexicana), Ms. Carr did a quick
encore of "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" (the sinfonia
has worked very hard during the entire performance and
I'm sure a lengthy encore would have been too much to
ask of them).
And I must add that going with fan club members always
makes seeing Ms. Carr in person that much more
special. Thanks to Vito, Tony, Joyce, Dennis, Jorge,
Mike, Sue, Sandy, and the others. It was a memorable
night. Thanks.
-Alan Suboter 16 Oct 2007
Vikki Carr with the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra
October 13, 2007
Joyce Steele/ Colorado
What an absolutely wonderful evening with the beautiful songs and
styling's of Ms. Vikki Carr and the incredible San Bernardino Symphony
Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Frank Fetta.
The "song list" that Vikki chose for the concert was a
journey back in time of her classic "repertoire" of songs
through the years from English, Spanish, Country, and
Jazz. She has preformed them all through the years of becoming an
overnight success in the music industry.
With her sparkle and zest...Vikki Carr continues to capture her
audience with AWE!
It was so much fun to once again be with so many VSP members and
friend's.
Vikki & Joyce Steele (in yellow) VSP
members Sharon, Sandy and Sue too!
Vikki Carr with Dennis Christensen
So here I am back in Chicago after a great trip to Los Angeles. I
stayed in Hollywood (don't you know) and then met Vito and the other
VSP in Long Beach for the ride out to San Bernardino Concert. We
drove in two cars using an open phone line for directions, a very
difficult task in itself. The show was great. Vikki's red gown was
fantastic and it definitely was a trip down memory lane. I
like country music, so Vikki's country selections were tops in my
book.(Singing My Song, I Can't Stop Loving You) And the
private reception afterwards was especially nice. The food was very
good and the drinks were mighty tasty by this time. I took 50 photos
and some of them are quite good, if I do say so myself. Vikki was
telling a story about Liberace in Las Vegas and all his rings, so I
flashed her with the 11 that I was wearing that night. She said
"Show off". and everyone laughed...Everyone was
frantically pushing and shoving to get photos of Vikki and
autographs, but she remained cool, calm, and collected throughout.
And she was looking good in her black dress for the
reception..Yvonne certainly does a great job in all the arrangements
and I thanked her for all she has done for me and my family in
Guadalajara. The it was over and we began a real
odyssey. We used every one of Los Angeles's
expressways, I do declare. First we took Jorge home to Pasadena and
then Joyce and Tony wanted to see Vikki's Star on the Walk of
Fame..So back to Hollywood we go and it is now 1:30 AM and Hollywood
Blvd is a zoo at that time.. I directed Alan who was driving
and Tony followed in his rental. We get to the star on corner of
Hollywood and Cahuenga and of course there is no parking, so
they leap out and take photos as we drive around the block.
Then someone needs a drink from 7/11.So we pull in and Vito
goes in with his suit on and the police tell him to leave right away
as something big was coming down. I was frantically waving to
him as to where we had parked. The lot was swarming with gang
bangers. I thought Vikki's star would be the last thing we'd
ever see. But we got away safely and they dropped me off
at my hotel and then went on back to Long Beach, another hours
drive.. Hollywood is just not what it used to be. One just
doesn't see Elizabeth Taylor out for stroll anymore..It's a rough
tough place, God, I love it, tho. And of course I had removed
all my rings by that time. I wasn't born yesterday despite my
youthful appearance (lol).. All the fans I meet at various shows are
so nice and I hope to meet the rest of you someday, someplace.
Dennis Christensen
Tucson Convention Center, 2007 Harmonia Fiesta
Concert w/ Mariachi Cobre
Ray Sotomayor,
Vikki, and
Ray's sister, Susie Corral and Vikki
Ray's mom, Virginia Bland
September 8, 2007
Unique “Fiesta” In Tucson
Review by
Ray Sotomayor
It had been a long while since Tucson was graced by a Vikki Carr
performance. It was great to have that familiar feeling of contentment to
hear her sing live. The atmosphere in the Tucson Convention Center
Arena
was electrified with people moving toward their seats. I noticed the Chief
of Police, Richard Miranda and Henry Oyama, well-known Spanish educator.
Also, there was a casually dressed, Monsignor Arsenio Carrillo and family.
He will receive the honor of a newly renovated Cathedral hall and placita
named for him. This event will benefit acquiring the necessary funds to
complete the new buildings.
The concert started with many young boys and girls performing. Several
selections included all of the children either playing mariachi songs and or
dancing. The ample stage was completely full against the beautiful
backdrop
painted several hours before the event. It’s a picturesque depiction of
ancient Mayan pyramids.
Next, Mariachi Cobre made their presence known by welcoming the audience
with their much-missed presence. They were in excellent form for their music
set and backing the singers. They are so proud of their uncle, Monsignor
Carrillo. They had made the long trek from their full-time gig at
Epcot
Center, Walt Disney World.
Aida Cuevas is a very traditional mariachi singer. She sang delightful
renditions of “Si Nos Dejan” and Mexican anthems such as
“Guadalajara” and
“Mexico Lindo y Querido.” She really got into her Ranchera style of
singing
to the delight of the audience.
At this point in the evening, it was time for the VSP meet and greet. It was
unusual to meet with Vikki before she went onstage, but it was a unique
night indeed. We got clearance and walked into Vikki’s dressing
room. She
was smiling and looked beautiful in her “Mardi Gras” gown! My mom
and
sister and the other fans stood and talked with her. She commented that she
was very taken that one of the little girl dancers had asked her to pose for
a photo. Also, she spoke of how excited she is about marking her 50th
anniversary in show business in 2008. She really wants to mark the
occasion
performing at famed Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. I trust that this
will
become an accomplishment for everyone’s sake. It was time to leave, as
Vikki
would soon go onstage. Each of us posed for a quick photo(s) and bid her
farewell. It was really special to know we still had her performance to look
forward to.
The arena quickly got loud after the intermission and Vikki was next to
perform. She walked in from the back with Mariachi Cobre playing
“Simplemente Mujer.” She was very animated walking toward the
stage. At one
point she sat on the lap of her husband, Pete Leon, and then continued
toward the stage. Vikki had some trouble climbing the stairs onto the stage.
She stopped singing and delightfully quipped with the crowd that she
had
forgotten the words. She paused and remarked, staring at Steve Carrillo of
Mariachi Cobre, “I know what it is, Steve!”
Vikki’s choice of songs for this evening was unique. She mentioned that
she
would sing some hits “al estilo de Mariachi” (done in the mariachi
style)
rather than traditional ranchera styled selections. I really enjoyed it, as
I had never heard her latin pop hits with mariachi background. “Somos
Novios”, “Esos Hombres” and “Total” took on a refreshing new feel
and sound.
She also sang some mariachi songs. “Entrega Total,” is so romantic and
“Por
Amor” of course to cap this very splendid time with “la Vikki!”
Vikki received standing ovations and a large bouquet of roses. Although the
evening had concluded, this was only the beginning of her successful fall
tour.
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On Stage
LEGENDS OF ENTERTAINMENT
Gabriel Iglesias opening for
Vikki Carr
Sunday, May 6, 2007, 3:00 PM
Lyric Configuration
$57.50/$46/$37.50
Before there was Los Lobos, before there was Gloria Estefan,
there was Vikki Carr - the first true Latin/Pop crossover
singer. Carr has recorded 59 best-selling records over the past
30 years, including 17 Gold albums. Now, the three-time Grammy
award-winner returns to the Cerritos Center for the Performing
Arts for a concert filled with greatest hits and sentimental
favorites, including "Pen in Hand," "It Must Be
Him," "He's a Rebel," and "Cosas del Amor."
www.vikkicarr.net
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Sue McCoy "Sweet Sue" and our Miss Vikki together!
May,
2007 finally arrived and it was time to go to Cerritos, California, to once
again see VIKKI CARR in concert. With a new band, new conductor and 2
back up singers we were not disappointed. VIKKI sang her heart out for
two hours and once again proved that age has nothing to do with loving to sing
and entertain. And, after her amazing performance on stage, she was
still up-beat and gracious to everyone as we took our turns for a hug, brief
conversation and a picture with the beautiful, talented and always
special…VIKKI CARR. Thank you VIKKI, you will always be loved.
Sue McCoy
Alan Suboter & Vikki
Alan Suboter &
Vikki
Valerie Sewell Vikki and
Dora Ramirez backstage at the concert (photo courtesy of Vince Ramirez)
Dear Vito,
We just got back from the Vikki Carr
concert in Cerritos. The performance was amazing. It started off with a great stand
up comic named Gabriel Iglesias. He was hysterical...and without profanity.
Pure talent! Vikki was INCREDIBLE!!! We got to meet her backstage after
her great performance. Thank you for helping us to meet her backstage. we are
very grateful to you for this. My Nino says she's still a
"babe". My Nina has always loved Vikki Carr and was thrilled to meet
her in person. She saw her last year on Mother's Day at the
California Theater in San Bernardino.
Thank you again for making it possible to meet Vikki in person. I have always
enjoyed listening to her records, but after seeing her and listening to her in
person,she really is my inspiration to excel in my singing.
Sincerely
Valerie
Dear Ms Vikki Carr,
We attended your concert at Cerritos on Sunday, May
6th. What can I say, but incredible and wow! I have seen you in
concert a couple of times before also at Cerritos. You gave us all so
much of yourself and your powerful, beautiful voice. Your selections
were great and I loved your new material a tribute to Frank Sinatra.
I'm sorry about the loss of your mother, but it was
very touching and great that afternoon as you shared the story of you and your
mother's time together. She is with you in spirit and must be very proud
of you!
In closing, I just feel so blessed that I was able to
hear you once again and look forward to the next time!
with love and thanks..God bless.
Terry Rayborne
Vikki’s one of those rare
“signature” voices: if my eyes were closed, I’d know that
beautiful voice was hers alone. No wonder she was the only female Frank
Sinatra invited to that inaugural! She was in top form today (on-key,
expressive, powerful), and I’m grateful she’d leave her “comfort zone”
to once again totally enthrall us FANatatics. Her song selection and
band were phenomenal. I hope she’ll return, because another sell-out
crowd eagerly awaits.
In appreciation,
KIMLA M BRECHT
Whittier, CA
additional comments below:
Good grief! – how in the world
could you possibly PERSONALLY reply to my fan mail in 5 minutes?
I hope Vikki knows how incredible
her Webmaster/President is! (Editor's notes: She does!)
Only two more worthy comments I
neglected to mention: her phenomenal range and creative spin on retro
hits. This incredibly-gifted lady has made them “new” hits! – and
believe me, I've heard others try “creative spins” on retro hits that
leave you yearning for the original versions. I truly hope she’s
allowed creative control over a new recording project, because I’ll be
“first-in-line” when it’s released.
And I know you’ll understand my
closing comment: I’ve attended about 200 concerts at Cerritos
Performing Arts Center over the past eight years, none of them disappointing;
but only three I’d buy tickets TO SEE AGAIN, and Vikki’s a DEFINITE
RE-RE-RE-REPEAT!
Please thank her for sharing her
unique gifts with us.
Return to Fan Reviews Page
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www.vikkicarr.net
