Labelle: Back to Now

Copy at Case Memorial Library
Hilton Als wrote in the New Yorker: "When the singing stars that make up Labelle — Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx, and Sarah Dash — became the first black contemporary-music act to perform at the Metropolitan Opera House, in 1974, they also became one of the first groups to infuse the look of glitter rock with soul. Dressed in silver body suits, space boots, and headpieces that brought to mind Josephine Baker fabulously strung out on Mars, the women, who had been singing together since the early nineteen-sixties, brought a new theatricality to R. & B. and funk. Gay audiences loved them, and straight women wanted to outfreak them. But no one could. Supported by Vicki Wickham, the brilliant impresario and manager, and owing largely to the extraordinary work of Hendryx, the team’s resident songwriter, Labelle gave voice to the lives of black women. After nearly thirty-two years, Labelle has released a new album, 'Back to Now.' To commemorate their reunion, the women will take the stage at the historic Apollo Theatre on Dec. 19" ("Critic's Notebook: Three Sisters," 12/22-29/08, p. 30).