Consummate performer Johnny Mathis played to a packed house on Saturday night, April 6, at Caesars Atlantic City. It was the quietest show opening I've ever been to. He simply walked out on stage, picked up his mike and began to sing “When I Fall in Love” in that beautiful, clear tenor, still strong and full after decades of performing.
Used to pleasing his audiences, Johnny sang all of our favorites like “It’s Not For Me to Say,” “Chances Are,” “Wonderful, Wonderful,” “Misty,” “The Twelfth of Never” and many, many more. It was a solid two-hour show with one intermission which allowed the audience to meet a very funny man, comic Brad Upton.
After that, Johnny Mathis was back with more music. Toward the end of the show, Johnny brought his guitarist of 43 years, Gil Reigers, up front and they performed several duets with guitar and voice, along with a set of Brazilian music. Johnny also performed more modern hits like “Yesterday” and “You Make Me Feel Brand New,” as well as a haunting rendition of the country song “Shenandoah.”
For all the years that have passed, he didn't look too much different. His step was a little slower and he didn't talk quite as much on stage, but one beautiful song seamlessly flowed into the next until he waved good-bye and attempted to leave the stage. Of course, he gallantly returned when the crowd wouldn't sit down.
To quote comic Brad Upton, “How about that Johnny Mathis? He’s been performing for 57 years and looks and sounds 37.” Well, maybe not 37, but Johnny Mathis gave his fans a brilliant night of remembering the music and the man they grew up with.
To read an interview with Johnny Mathis, click here
Be sure to check out Carla's other columns:
Charity & Volunteerism Examiner
Atlantic City Baby Boomer Examiner
Atlantic City Headlines Examiner
Atlantic City Pop Media Examiner
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