Patti LaBelle with Tacoma Symphony Orchestra
$28-$75
Patti LaBelle has been called the Godmother of Soul for good reason, with #1 hits including “Lady Marmalade,” “On My Own” sung with Michael MacDonald, “If Only You Knew,” and “Come What May.” The R&B diva who has sold over 50 million records worldwide will take the stage with The Tacoma Symphony at the Washington State Fair this September.
While most fans think of Patti LaBelle competing for the Mirror Ball Trophy on ABC’s 20th season of Dancing with the Stars, she has a long and storied background as an American singer, author and actress, with over 50 years in the music industry.
Born in Philadelphia, LaBelle spent 16 years as the lead singer of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles. They changed their name to Labelle in the early 1970s, and released the disco song, “Lady Marmalade.” When the group disbanded in 1977, she started her solo career with the release of her self-titled and critically acclaimed debut album. Her first R&B number one hit came in 1984 with “If Only You Knew.” It was at this time she crossed over into the pop music genre.
Her duet with Michael McDonald, “On My Own,” was part of her triple platinum selling album, Winner in You. LaBelle’s tenth album, Burnin’, brought her a Grammy – her first. By 2008 Labelle reunited as a group after over 32 years, releasing Back to Now, which was followed by a successful reunion tour.
Patti LaBelle’s list of honors is as extensive as her humanitarian efforts. She has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Apollo Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame. The World Music Awards presented LaBelle with the coveted Legend Award in 2005. Over her career, she has been on 17 tours, performing to enthusiastic fans.
Her diverse career has taken her several times to Broadway to perform, and the silver screen in a supporting role in the Oscar-nominated drama, A Soldier’s Story, plus nine other movies. LaBelle has had a recurring character role in the acclaimed sitcom, A Different World, and a wide range of other television shows. She has authored five books, and recently launched her own line of both sauces, and designer bedding collection.
Admission
Golden Circle: $75
Infield Floor/Bleachers/Center Grandstand: $50
Lower/Upper Grandstand: $28
Fair gate admission included in purchase (a $12.50 value)