Beverly Church Hogan

90th Birthday Concert

Catalina Jazz Club, Hollywood, CA, December 8, 2024

Reviewed by Mary Bogue

The grand celebration of Beverly Church Hogan’s 90th birthday was a tribute to her unparalleled artistry as well as a magnificent display of the wealth of musical talent she has inspired over the years. The evening offered a rich tapestry of beautiful songs, special guests, and show-stopping performances. It was clear from the moment Hogan took the stage that this would be a celebration of her entire legacy, one woven from decades of musical excellence, charisma, and an undeniable connection with her audience.

From the first note of “A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening“ (Jimmy McHugh/Harold Adamson), Hogan set the tone for the show with a blend of warmth, grace, and sophistication that would continue throughout the evening. Her voice was as commanding and delicate as ever as it shimmered in the spotlight while John Proulx’s piano, Bob Sheppard’s sax, and the rhythm section of Grant Geissman and Gabe Davis offered a seamless musical backdrop. The audience, already captivated, could sense that this would be a night of extraordinary musical moments.

However, it was not just Hogan’s voice that commanded attention. The night showcased her remarkable talents as well as the brilliance of the musicians she’s worked with throughout the years. Guest vocalists took the stage to join in the celebration, and each added their own flavor to the evening’s proceedings. From heartfelt duets to solo performances, each guest highlighted the diverse musical world Hogan has lived in and gave the audience a glimpse into the many artists she has influenced and has shared the stage with.

The musicians also were in top form and played with the effortless skill that could come only from years of collaboration and friendship. The standout moment arrived when Hogan delivered an unforgettable rendition of “East of the Sun (and West of the Moon)” (Brooks Bowman). With flawless backing from her ensemble, her performance was nothing short of sensational. Every note and every subtle phrasing were perfect, and the arrangement seemed tailor-made to show off her artistry.

Just when we thought the night had reached its zenith, she raised the bar even higher with “The Touch of Your Lips” (Ray Noble), joined by violinist Nora Germain. The chemistry between vocalist and violinist was palpable and created a rich, intimate moment that left the audience hanging onto every note. Hogan’s voice—as smooth and beguiling as ever—soared effortlessly through the lush arrangement, and Germain’s violin answered with a delicate echo. Together, they created a beautiful connection that showcased the timeless nature of Hogan’s artistry.

As the program neared its conclusion, the audience was treated to yet another standout performance—a spectacular rendition of “I’m Glad There Is You” (Jimmy Dorsey/Paul Madeira Mertz). The song, a classic in the cabaret and jazz world, was given a fresh interpretation under Hogan’s seasoned command. Her delivery was nothing short of exquisite; each phrase was wrapped in a warmth and sincerity that left no doubt that her emotional connection to the song—and to her audience—remained as deep and strong as ever. Her performance was enhanced by a stunning orchestral arrangement that was a perfect blend of elegance and restraint. As if to sum up the entire evening, her performance of that song was a perfect tribute to a lifetime of music, passion, and connection. Her voice, a beautiful reflection of a storied career, echoed through the venue, leaving us with a sense of awe and gratitude.

Beverly Church Hogan’s 90th birthday celebration was a stunning reminder of why she remains one of the true icons of jazz and cabaret. From the impressive guest vocalists to the phenomenal musicianship of the ensemble, the night was a testament to the depth and breadth of her influence, her artistry, and her enduring love for music. For those lucky enough to be in the audience, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one that reminded us how lucky we are to witness such a talent still at the peak of her powers. Here’s to Beverly Church Hogan, a living legend whose artistry will continue to inspire and delight for many years to come.