Photo courtesy of Pepperdine
By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief
The 2019-20 Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts season will kick off with a performance by powerhouse vocalist Darlene Love on Thursday, September 12, at 8 p.m.
“An iconic singer, Love continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her superb vocal talent and warm, gracious stage presence,” Pepperdine shared in a press release before the event.
Her career, which spans five decades, started as a member of the Blossoms, who have provided backup vocals for artists like Sam Cooke and Bobbie Day. The Blossoms were also featured on ’60s music show “Shindig” as part of the house band, backing up performers who appeared on the series.
“Love would go on to become one of the most sought-after singers in music history, recording with Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, the Beach Boys, Dionne Warwick, the Righteous Brothers, Tom Jones and dozens of other vocal giants throughout her career,” Pepperdine explained. “Her early work with pioneering producer Phil Spector on songs such as the trailblazing ‘He’s a Rebel,’ ‘He’s Sure the Boy I Love’ and ‘Why Do Lovers Break Each Other’s Hearts’ would garner her legend status.”
Love was also featured in the 2013 Academy and Grammy Award-winning documentary “20 Feet from Stardom,” which offered a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of background singers. The Los Angeles native has also appeared on screen and stage, including movies, TV and Broadway.
Love, whose performance is sponsored by the Office of the President of Pepperdine University, will perform at Smothers Theatre.
Tickets start at $40 for adults and $10 for full-time Pepperdine students. They may be purchased online at arts.pepperdine.edu or by calling 310-506-4522.
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