At the memorial service for renowned poet and activist Maya Angelou, the audience was serenaded by a collection of memorable performances that reflected her vast influence and creative spirit. On June 7th, 2014, world renowned blues legend B.B King sang for Maya’s friends, family and fans at the Wadsworth Theatre in Los Angeles, California. Famous reggae singer, Shaggy, along with singer and songwriter Crystal Aikin and vocalist Jennifer Hudson also performed in her honor that day.
B.B King is one of the most influential blues singers of all time, noted for his passionate and lively guitar playing. His song “The Thrill Is Gone” was a major hit and earned him a Grammy Award. A vibrant live performer, he has been nicknamed the King of the Blues for his intense performances and unique sound.
Singer, songwriter and actor Shaggy is one of the most successful reggae musicians of the past two decades. He has achieved numerous Billboard hits with his signature mix of dancehall, hip-hop, R&B and more. His most successful single, “It Wasn’t Me” was a best-selling track in 2000. During the memorial, Shaggy sang his high charting single “In The Summertime”.
Crystal Aikin is a gospel singer, songwriter and inspirational speaker known for her soulful music and powerful performances. She was a recipient of the 2016 NAACP Image Award, and her single “He’s Able” was a number one hit on the US Billboard Gospel chart. During Maya’s funeral, she sang her Grammy Award nominated hit “Fall” accompanied by a choir.
Finally, the night was concluded with a performance by Jennifer Hudson, who performed the spiritual classic “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands”. Hudson is one of the most acclaimed pop and R&B artists of the 21st century, having achieved great success with her debut album and the Academy Award-winning role in the movie “Dreamgirls”. She stunned the audience with her rendition of “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” and was seen moved to tears during the performance.
Memorial Service
The memorial service for renowned poet Maya Angelou was an incredible tribute to her life and legacy. Fans, family and friends gathered at the Wadsworth Theatre in Los Angeles, California to pay their respects as well as listen to a collection of performances to honor her life. Notable performers included blues legend B.B King, along with talented reggae musician Shaggy and gospel singer Crystal Aikin. The night was wrapped up with an emotional performance from pop and R&B star Jennifer Hudson.
Musical Performances
B.B King is one of the most influential blues singers of all time, with his classic hit “The Thrill Is Gone” earning him a Grammy award. During Maya’s memorial service, he was the opening act, singing to the dance and appreciation of the crowd. Next up was Shaggy, who achieved chart success with his blend of dancehall, hip-hop, R&B and more. He performed his hit single “It Wasn’t Me” which was a staple during the early 2000’s. After his performance, Grammy nominated gospel singer Crystal Aikin sang her single “Fall”, complete with a choir accompanying her. The night was concluded with emotional performance from Jennifer Hudson with her rendition of “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands”.
Legacy
Maya Angelou’s legacy is one that will live on for many generations to come. Poet, author, actor, civil rights activist, director and educator, she was an icon in the African American community, and her influence resonated through the entire performance at her memorial service. All the performers did her memory justice, and gave the audience an unforgettable night of tribute to a woman whose work and spirit shaped a generation.
Innovation
Maya Angelou was a revolutionary artist who used her platform to spread messages of love, hope and courage. Each one of the performers at her memorial service as well followed in her path of creativity and innovation in the way they approached their songs. B.B King used his guitar to create a soulful blues atmosphere, while Shaggy performed a rendition of a pop hit like no other. Crystal Aikin was accompanied by a chorus for her gospel inspired single and Jennifer Hudson used soft harmonies to bring her spiritual classic to life. All of their performances showed how much respect they all had for the pioneering poet.
Honor
The performers at Maya Angelou’s memorial service embodied the same passion and perseverance that the iconic poet was known for. Each artist used their talents to create an atmosphere of remembrance and respect for the legacy of Maya. They all deserved the honor that came with this tribute, and their performance in an intimate setting will be remembered for many years to come.
