News Summary
The 9th annual Love Rocks NYC benefit concert at Beacon Theatre featured Cher performing an Elvis-inspired set to raise funds for God’s Love We Deliver. Alongside artists like Alicia Keys and Michael McDonald, Cher captivated the audience with songs including ‘Walking in Memphis’ and shared a charming anecdote about declining a date from Elvis Presley. The event successfully highlighted the intersection of music and philanthropy, benefiting those in need and promoting community support.
New York City – The 9th annual Love Rocks NYC benefit concert was held on March 6 at the iconic Beacon Theatre, where legendary performer Cher captivated the audience by channeling the spirit of Elvis Presley. Dressed in a striking Elvis-inspired outfit featuring a pompadour wig and a pink shirt with a flamboyant collar, Cher brought her unique flair to the stage, showcasing her commitment to both music and philanthropy.
During her performance, Cher treated attendees to an energetic rendition of Marc Cohn’s “Walking in Memphis,” a song she famously recorded for her 1995 album It’s a Man’s World. This performance was part of a star-studded lineup at the concert, which aims to raise funds for God’s Love We Deliver, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing medically tailored meals and essential nutritional services to those in need.
In addition to Cher, the concert featured an array of celebrated artists, including Alicia Keys, Michael McDonald, Peter Frampton, Beck, Mavis Staples, Trey Anastasio from Phish, and Luke Spiller from The Struts. Alicia Keys opened the evening, delivering a heartfelt cover of “Killing Me Softly With His Song” as a tribute to the late Roberta Flack, who passed away on February 24 at the age of 88.
Cher’s performance was a highlight of the evening, providing a nostalgic touch to the event. In addition to “Walking in Memphis,” she performed “(This Is) A Song for the Lonely” and her iconic hit “Believe.” Throughout her set, the music video for “Walking in Memphis” played in the background, enhancing the nostalgic experience for fans. After the first song, Cher transitioned into a costume resembling her look from the song’s music video, which gained popularity following the events of 9/11, underscoring her cultural impact.
The concert also infused humor into the night with comedic segments presented by hosts Alex Edelman, Tracy Morgan, Amy Schumer, and Susie Essman, who engaged the audience between musical sets. The evening concluded with an all-star encore performance of Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground,” featuring many of the artists who had performed earlier, illustrating the collaborative spirit of the event.
Adding a personal touch to her performance, Cher revealed that she had once declined a date request from Elvis Presley, citing her nervousness about his renowned reputation. This anecdote added a layer of charm and connection to her Elvis-themed homage.
This year’s Love Rocks NYC not only advanced the mission of supporting those in need through God’s Love We Deliver, but it also extended its helping hands to Project Angel Food, another peer organization that assists those affected by wildfires in Los Angeles. The concert successfully highlighted the intersection of music and charity, encouraging attendees and viewers alike to support vital humanitarian efforts in their communities.
Overall, the Love Rocks NYC benefit concert once again proved to be a powerful platform that brought together some of the biggest names in music and comedy for a noble cause. With Cher’s dazzling tribute to Elvis Presley at the forefront, the night showcased the strength of community, philanthropy, and the enduring impact of music.
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Additional Resources
- Rolling Stone: Cher Honors Elvis at Love Rocks NYC
- Entertainment Weekly: Cher’s Elvis Tribute
- People: Cher as Elvis at Benefit Concert
- Google Search: Cher Elvis Love Rocks NYC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Love Rocks NYC
