Diana Ross graced the Hollywood Bowl on Friday night, marking her fifth performance at the iconic venue since 2013 and her second concert in Los Angeles in less than a year. With a vibrant atmosphere and an eager crowd, the 81-year-old pop legend captivated fans at this weekend’s concert series.
The evening kicked off with Ross’s signature anthem “I’m Coming Out,” setting the tone for an energetic night ahead. Immediately following, she treated the audience to a lively Motown medley, showcasing some of the 12 No. 1 hits she secured with the Supremes during the 1960s. While many in attendance, myself included, might have preferred full renditions of classics such as “You Can’t Hurry Love,” the rapid succession of these timeless tracks was exhilarating, serving as a nostalgic reminder of the legendary Hitsville, U.S.A.
Accompanying her were more than a dozen talented musicians, including four horn players and four backing vocalists, who infused the performance with a vibrant energy. Their crisp and propulsive sound shone through the Motown classics, while their tight harmonies added depth to Ross’s performance of “Upside Down.” Ross’s rendition of Billie Holiday’s “Don’t Explain” from her biopic “Lady Sings the Blues” was both lush and grounded, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
Fashion was as much a part of the evening as the music, with Ross dazzling the audience in three stunning gowns. She opened the show in an eye-catching canary-yellow outfit, later donning a bedazzled ruby red gown and concluding in a glittering gold ensemble. Each wardrobe change was met with applause, and she skillfully tossed matching shawls to a waiting assistant, underscoring her showmanship.
Adding a quirky charm to her wardrobe choices, Ross opted to wear a bulky microphone pack on her waist rather than conceal it, endearing herself even further to fans.
At one point during the concert, Ross took a moment to share details about her latest album, “Thank You,” released in 2021. However, her introduction was humorously interrupted by what seemed like another microphone malfunction. With good humor, she addressed the issue, assuring the audience they would soon hear a piece from her new album, expressing gratitude for the years of support from her fans.
The night was made all the more special by the appearance of Ross’s daughter, Rhonda, who joined her on stage for the track “Count on Me.” Proudly noting her daughter’s efforts, Ross remarked with playful honesty, contributing to an atmosphere of warmth and familial love. Rhonda also performed a brief set of her own songs, encouraging the audience to reflect on self-validation with a song urging them to “stop gaslighting ourselves.”
In a nostalgic moment for fans, Ross revisited her iconic performances from “The Wiz,” the Broadway classic that debuted over 50 years ago. She skillfully delivered her well-loved numbers, “Home” and “Ease on Down the Road,” the latter of which inspired even the most reserved audience members in the Bowl’s box seats to engage with the lively performance.
As the performance progressed, Ross led the audience through a heartfelt call-and-response during her rendition of “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand).” She shared what she called “my mantra,” expressing gratitude for the blessings in life. Ross’s heartfelt message of resilience and thankfulness resonated deeply, as concertgoers echoed her sentiments with joy.
With a blend of nostalgia, impressive vocal performances, and an atmosphere brimming with gratitude, Diana Ross’s concert at the Hollywood Bowl was yet another testament to her profound impact on music and the hearts of her fans.
image source from：latimes
