By Gregory Burrus | Posted Friday, September 30, 2022
On Saturday night, September 24th, Maplewood, NJ was treated to an incredible performance by one of the most sought-after musicians in all of jazz. Thanks to Smooth Jazz NJ run by Maplewood resident Rich Engel, The Woodland in Maplewood hosted a fabulous, memorable performance by the international touring star Oleta Adams and her swinging band. With a sold-out performance, folks arrived early and the entry lines were up the steps, out the front door and into the parking lot. It was clear as the excitement was palpable for this Oleta Adams performance more than anything else that has happened in town for a long, long time.
Photo Credit: Oleta Adams
Oleta Adams has inspired a growing legion of fans around the world with journeys of the heart via songs that draw deeply from her roots in gospel, while crossing effortlessly into the realms of soul, R&B, urban, and popular music. Her success was first nurtured by worldwide tours with Tears for Fears, Phil Collins, Michael Bolton and Luther Vandross and was solidified by four Grammy nominations with more than two and a half million records sold. And now this international star was here in Maplewood, NJ and the fans came out from all over the tri-state area.
Photo Credit: Gregory Burrus Productions
The show started up and the audience responded, lovingly and loudly, when she walked on stage and them from then on, no matter what she played from her vast catalog of hits, it was clear the audienc was a hardcore group of tireless, energetic fans that came to enjoy the concert. Oleta did not disappoint at all and delivered some lively, memorable tunes that kept audience members on their feet, cheering and clapping at the beginning, middle and end of just about every song. This happened throughout this night’s performance on almost every song she sang.
Oleta’s tone and texture of her voice is like none other, There's a continuous deep resonance that connects you to her on every song. Since she is also an accomplished pianist, songwriter and a very engaging storyteller, she starts a song with a story and next thing you know she is singing and the connection for all of us is instantly made, as she envelops us all within her song.
Credit: Gregory Burrus Productions
Since the runaway success of Oleta Adams’ debut album Circle of One went Platinum with the impassioned hit single "Get Here" and, as many may remember, "Get Here" became the unofficial anthem of the 1991 Gulf War, as expected, one of my favorite tunes and her number one hit just drove the crowd into a frenzy. It was amazing as the room lit up with a sea of phones capturing the moment.
Photo Credit: Fred Engel
The night’s love was further evidenced at the end of this magical Saturday evening in the Woodland in Maplewood NJ by a surprise painting given to Oleata Adams by Bernard Jackson of South Orange, NJ.
This was once again another spectacular performance produced by Rich Engel of Smooth Jazz NJ and Gregory Burrus Productions was happy to provide videography services.
About Gregory Burrus
Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, producer, promoter, curator, event planner, and community partner. He combines his extensive corporate business and technology expertise with his love of live music especially the jazz genre and more. Gregory Burrus Productions mission is to help community groups, small business owners, live music groups, and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life. Stay up to date on future events by visiting. https://gregoryburrusproductions.com/events/