Billy Porter(I)
- Actor
- Producer
- Director
Before embarking on a career as a mainstream pop vocalist, Billy Porter
built a substantial reputation as a theatrical singer in Broadway
productions such as Grease and Smokey Joe's Cafe. He made his initial
impact by placing 'Love Is On The Way' on the soundtrack to the film
First Wives' Club, in 1996. His debut album, Untitled, was firmly
anchored in traditional R&B territory, with several key ballads
included (such as a cover version of Glenn Jones's 'Show Me') in an
attempt to win over mainstream radio. His backing band featured several
musicians better known for their work in the theatre, including Warren
J. McCrae, Gary Haase and Peter Zizzo (his producer). Unsurprisingly
for a multi-faceted performer, Porter's record company was keen for
their artist to be seen live, and his support slot to Sounds Of
Blackness in New York in May 1997 attracted some encouraging reviews
prior to his own headlining dates.
