PRAISES FOR DORIE PRIDE

On Saturday, May 12th I had the pleasure of attending “Aurora Dawn Studios Presents Dorie Pride” at the U Space Art Gallery in Atlanta.  I wasn’t going to miss this much anticipated event for anything in this world. You see, this “come back” for Dorie Pride since relocating to Georgia from Los Angeles was finally taking place after years of writing, producing and preparation.

Dorie Pride is a rare find. She is a multitalented musical genius with a voice like velvet and messages that needs to be heard. Her writing comes straight from the heart as a storyteller who translates her feelings and life experiences through melodious works of art and weaves them into a colorful tapestry of song.

Your first impression of Dorie is unforgettable as her inner and outer beauty has an immediate impact on you. She welcomes you with open arms and dancing eyes. Her smile literally illuminates a room. Her fashionable ensemble of bright persimmon and tropical aqua compliments her golden skin and hair. You know that she is the star among us as she stands out from the crowd! When she hugs you, you know she means it. You can feel the healing effect of her generous spirit along with her undeniable heart of gold.

Then, it’s show time! Dorie creatively tweaks your imagination and seduces you into joining her mission to make this a better world. Throughout her performance, you laugh, you cry and emotions that have been stored away rise to the surface. Like a seasoned actress, you watch her go into character for every song and literally become the message she sings about! This convincing Angel of Mercy delivers these heartfelt melodies through her body language and passionate lyrics!

From her current CD, “Life’s Just a Color TV” reflects upon how we get caught up in the events of the world. “She Never Asks” celebrates the proud woman on a street corner whom we have all seen or can relate to. Songs about relationships, “Love Will Find a Way”, and “He Was Born 2 Make Music “ …and She Was Born to Be Loved…  She rocks, she rolls, she stomps her feet, she’s soft, she’s gutsy, she gives you her all. You clap, you cheer, you are on the edge of your seat and at times, you can hear a pin drop. Dorie holds you captive until she is ready to let you go. Then, you just want to hug somebody, anybody when it’s over!

Dorie’s husband Kamau Seitu, a composer and music producer in his own right, accompanies her on the guitar. You want to talk about a magical bond between a man and a woman that is rarely seen? Their marriage of 19 years is clearly reflected in the musical harmony they share having created this music together. Her accompanying musicians are seasoned and delightfully talented as well.

I have not heard an artist whose music is so relevant since Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” or John Lennon’s “Imagine”.  Dorie’s styling and musicality reminds us of Rachelle Ferrell. Her stories are fresh like Chrisette Michele. She sparks your sense of responsibility with memorable lyrics like Michael Jackson’s “We Are the World”. Notice I did not say “sounds like”? It’s because Dorie Pride sounds like no one other than Dorie Pride.

At the very last note you selfishly want more, although you have dined sufficiently. When you return from this mesmerizing, melodious tour of “The World According to Dorie” and it feels so good like you just had a nice long massage for your Mind, Body and Spirit!

 

By Sherry Cherie Blackwell