She's blonde, she's beautiful, and she's talented. Leigha Fox appeared with Larry Smith at the Copa's wonderful Player's Lounge, which has a nine foot Baldwin concert grand piano to add to Larry's already great sound. Larry began the show with some Bert Bacharat songs in his usual way, great vocals and marvelous piano. Larry's look is different these days. He's grown a beard, which his wife, Christine Cordone and I love. Whether he'll still have it when you see him only Larry knows.
As always when Larry plays, guests start coming out of the woodwork. The first was England's Robert Saffron-Jones, who sang "If I Loved You" from Carousel. Robert played Billy in the show in London. He has a big, beautiful baritone and an excellent range. Then Larry brought up Leigha, looking glamourous in a royal blue dress. She began with a wonderful song, "Get Here", which was very popular with her fellow Navy people during Desert Storm. Leigha spent eight years in the Navy. She followed it with Bonnie Raitt's emotional "I Can't Make You Love Me". The song fits Leigha like a glove. Her stage presence is a delight. I sat there thinking of the great Donna Mason, who thrilled audiences at the Colony Club in Washington, D.C., an intimate listening room much like Player's. Donna sat on the grand piano and sang torch songs.
Patsy Cline's hit "Walking After Midnight" was a great choice. Leigha's Arkansas accebnt slipped out. This girl can kill with country music. Back to pop, Ms. Fox sang one of my favorite Elton John tunes, "Your Song", followed by "Every Little Thing" from the Police. This one also works for Leigha. It is very Broadway.
Break time brought Larry back to do a fine original, "The Cows Are Hungry". Ask him to explain it when you see him. He asked what Hoagy Carmichael song we'd like. I answered quickly, "Stardust". This timeless ballad presents Larry as you love to hear him.
It was guest time again. Jim Dupuis sang "Open the Door and Come Out Ofthe Closet", country flavored with hilarious lyrics. Jim has a fine voice and a great persona. He gave us a taste of "Man Of La Mancha" in his excellent tenor. Our town is loaded with musical comedy stars.
Leigha's turn came again with a surprise. Larry helped her up onto the piano. Holy dejas vu! Like Donna Mason, Leigha is feminine to the nines. Her breath control is great. She sang "Misty", "I Only Have Eyes For You" and "Saving All my Love For You', all of which I've heard Donna do, and believe me, it was romantic! I believe she's found her schtick.
Ian Shevrington, another Larry Smith guest came in. When Dr.Kathryn Price and her daughter did Larry's showcase, Ian was in the audience. The singers met, fell in love, and are about to be married. Isn't that delightful? Take yourself to the Copa. The disco downstairs is wonderful, and you can't find a better listening room on the island than Players. And watch for Leigha Fox and discover a treat for your senses. Stay cool!