Cape Town singing sensation Fagrie Isaacs will take fans of the late Luther Vandross down memory lane with a tribute production to the music icon.
The show titled “Here and Now” is presented by Simplified Management & Events and Fi6 Music, Isaacs’ brand and will be held at the Hillsong Church in Century City on November 12.
Isaacs said he fell in love with Vandross' songs while he was a child.
“We had just started playing his brand-new CD. The song Impossible Dream made me feel something that no other song has ever made me feel,” he said.
“Something about that had struck my soul, and it hasn't left to this day. I'm not sure if it was the smooth tone he conveyed or the magical arrangement of the music,” he continued.
Isaacs' fans are familiar with his time as The Boyz's lead singer, one of Cape Town's most popular boy bands.
In local productions, Isaacs (with The Boyz) performed at the 2014 Music Alla Kaap and 2017 Rocking the City, an Alistair Isobel production.
Isaacs is also one of the three voices of the soulful trio with Nur Abrahams and Tye Platinum named SoulCut3.
Isaacs said he wanted to give Vandross fans a treat.
“I never had the opportunity to experience a live Luther event, so I intend to offer my audience the opportunity to experience what I think I would have if I attended one of his shows,” he said.
“This is a show I have wanted to do for a long time, and I am finally able to. I think this tribute show is fitting as Luther is one of the most iconic artists of all time.”
“They (audience) can expect some of my all-time favourites from love ballads and popular duets to dance songs. There will be a full stage production with a live band and backing vocals along with all the bells and whistles,” he added.
Isaacs will be joined on stage by Cape songstresses Salome Johansen, Andrea Fortuin, and Jody Williams. Comedian Carl Weber will host the evening.
Owner of Simplified Management & Events, Fahmi Jacobs, said Isaacs prioritised giving the audience an experience with his performances.
“This production is no different. We have amazing artists joining him, and we are promising an unforgettable experience,” he said.
Jacobs said Isaacs had wanted to host the tribute show for a while.
“I am excited to see one of his dreams become a reality. He has wanted to do this tribute for the longest time, and it’s exciting to be on this journey with him,” he said.
He added: “Besides having an incredible voice, Fagrie has this ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. From what I have experienced, his performances leave people in awe.”