You have to admit it is pretty awesome to learn that not only is one of our most beloved jazz vocalists in our city performing a free concert on the banks of the Grand River’s Ah-Nab-Awen-Park, but, scanning her bio, we also discover she has entertained the U.S. troops via a USO tour of Asia and the United States.
Mary Rademacher Reed, winner of the West Michigan Jazz Society’s Jazz Musician of the Year (2006), is a long time local favorite vocalist who has built up her career from club shows to the many stages of our theater community. She is also a member of the touring musical act Boogie Woogie Babies.
It is hard not to be moved by her talent as she not only captivates an audience with her stage presence but also attracts local A-list performers, including the men who make her latest combo: the Plaza Towers Players comprised of Paul Lesinski (piano), Jeff Beavan (bass), John Gist (sax), and Scott Veenstra (drums).
“I'm excited - this group really gets funky and seriously grooves,” says Rademacher Reed, “I'm doing a mix of standards, from Chuck Mangioni's ‘Shaker Song’ to showtunes, but (also) taking a classic tune and giving them a twist like ‘Cherokee,’ ‘Show Me, I'm a Woman,’ ‘No Moon at All,’ and ‘Lady Be Good.’”
And, as always, she hints at other surprises, including something for the fans of the popular TV “Mad Men” series.
It is a free show, and if you do not feel like packing a picnic basket, they will have food trucks on site.
Admission: Free
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