Story and Photos by Pat Krause
On Saturday, the 25th, legendary Johnny Mathis fans packed The Show at the Agua Caliente Resort Casino, eager to witness the magic of this musical icon. As he stepped onto the stage, a nearly full orchestra accompanied him, creating an atmosphere of pure anticipation. At 89 years young, Mathis has enchanted the world with over 360 million records sold and an array of prestigious awards amassed throughout his remarkable career, solidifying his place as one of the top three artists of the 20th century.
Despite not having performed in a while, Mathis radiated joy at the sight of his devoted fans. His opening number was a tender, slow melody, his voice warm and inviting. When he launched into "Chances Are," the audience erupted in a chorus of gasps and gasps, utterly captivated by his distinctive rendition. Remarkably, he still effortlessly hit those soaring high notes, masterfully altering the tempo and timbre to bring the song to life.
With each round of applause, Mathis was visibly moved and repeatedly expressed his gratitude to the audience for their presence. The atmosphere reached a fever pitch when he performed "Moon River," with a stunning large moon projected in the background, inspiring many fans to rise to their feet to celebrate this beloved classic. He exited the stage after a heartfelt series of songs and a unique medley. He made way for comedian Brad Upton, who took the spotlight with a flurry of hilarious jokes and captivating stories.
But the night was far from over! Mathis returned to the stage to delight his fans with even more of his timeless hits; each number met with resounding applause. The second set kicked off with a medley featuring cherished songs like "Misty," "My Foolish Heart," "The 12th of Never," and "Let the Good Times Roll." It was nothing short of a spectacular concert by a genuinely great artist.
With its rich blend of horns, violins, piano, and drums, the orchestra truly elevated Mathis's performances, wrapping each song in a vibrant, lush sound. It is always a delight when The Show presents such diverse, talented artists on its stage. Looking ahead, there are thrilling upcoming performances in store! You will feature country artist Clint Black on the 1st, Smokey Robinson on the 8th, and Air Supply on the 15th.
Pat Krause
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