Singer Etta James not only defined the blues, she lived them.
In a career spanning five decades, she produced some of the most timeless soul, jazz and blues numbers ever recorded, and struggled with addiction for most of her life.
From a foster-home upbringing to her status as one of the finest ladies of jazz, and her battle with Alzheimer's later in life, Etta's tale is synonymous with the blues. Etta sadly passed away in 2012 and now her incredible life story is being told on-stage through her own music when 'At Last - The Etta James Story' returns to Australia, having sold out theatres here and in New Zealand since its 2013 debut.
One of Australia's most powerful female voices, Vika Bull takes on the titular role for 'At Last', and here she answers our questions about the show and what it takes to be better than Etta.
As a singer, what does it mean to you to sing the songs of Etta James?
I take this very seriously. Etta is one of the greats and deserves a lot of respect.
Do you remember the first song by Etta you heard?
The first song by Etta I heard was ‘Roll With Me Henry’ a duet sung with Richard Berry who I think was uncredited. I fell in love with it instantly and had to find more songs sung by this woman.
Which is your favourite song to sing during the show?
'Tough Lover’ because it’s kinda like a rap.
How have you prepared for the role?
It took me about a year to prepare; [I] had to learn her songs, had to research her life. I read her book ‘Rage To Survive’ twice which I still refer back to now and then. [I] looked at a lotta stuff on YouTube. Then the preparation became: ‘how am I going to sing this seven nights a week’ because it’s a really tough sing, so I had to practice very hard and become vocally fit: kinda like running a marathon!
How faithful is the show's narrative to the events of Etta's life?
I think it’s pretty close. We celebrate the highs and the lows because that’s what made her a great singer.
What has been the hardest part of this show?
The hardest part of this show is singing the many different styles that Etta sung because she had a very long career.
Did you ever have the chance to meet Etta in real life?
No.
In your opinion, what is the enduring appeal of Etta's music?
I think the enduring appeal is that Etta could sing so honestly and people really feel that.
Is there a vocalist alive today you think is on par with (or better than) Etta?
Yes, Jennifer Hudson.
Are there any other projects you're working on, or is this show getting your full focus at the moment?
This show is getting [my] full focus at the moment because it is very challenging but so enjoyable; such a great story and so many great songs.
'At Last – The Etta James Story' arrives in Brisbane at QPAC's Concert Hall on 19 November.
