Review: BRENDA WATTY: LIFE AS A MARVELETTE at Westcoast Black Theatre

A Communication Forum, sponsored by the Westcoast Black Theatre titled WBTT Voices, recently spotlighted Brenda Watty, fifteen-year member of The Marvelettes. Watty spent five years in the 60's girl group, The Toys, singing lead vocals on the hit, Lovers Concerto. As a member of Musique she scored another hit titled, Push Push in the Bush. Her management company, Banner Talent, then secured an audition for her as lead vocalist with the Marvelettes, and for the next 15 years she stayed and toured with the group.

Presiding over the interview at WBTT, Ms Edna Sherrell charmed the audience with her poignant questions that would evoke Brenda to come to life with stories and songs from her touring days and opening performances for The Temptations, The Four Tops, Chuck Berry, Bo Didley, Ricky Nelson, The Ink Spots, Mary Wells, The Drifters and so many other greats. Brenda also toured with Desmond Wilson, (Sanford and Son), singing background in Roy Radin's Vaudeville Show.

Brenda was a powerhouse of fun and energy as she sang her old hits and told stories of being on the road. Something would ignite a memory and she would jump to her feet and breathe life into, Please Mr. Postman, The Hunter Gets Captured by the Game, Don't Mess With Bill, Beechwood 4-5789 and other classics. When asked, she was quick to talk about her faith and gave God the glory for her life and career. She is a delightful entertainer and has the pipes to bring the house down.

Florida residents can catch her as the lead singer of the Gotta Luv It rock band, Brenda Watty & The Guys R&B Band, and her one-woman show at the Sarasota Bar Bistro and the Starlite Room. She is a member of the Light of the World International Church Choir, The Voices and the Senior Choir. If that isn't enough, this ball of energy teaches vocal training in her home and volunteers entertaining at retirement homes.

For more information check out www.gottaluvitband.com.