What a great surprise to come across this new video of the legendary Chaka Khan doing a Tiny Desk Concert for NPR. Without question, Chaka always has the best bands and most incredible background singers. Had we known about this, we certainly would have fought LA traffic to be front and center. Great show.
Chaka Khan and the Magic of Tiny Desk Concerts: A Musical Journey
Chaka Khan, born Yvette Marie Stevens on March 23, 1953, is an iconic American singer and songwriter who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Known as the “Queen of Funk,” With Rufus, Chaka Khan achieved significant success. “Tell Me Something Good” (1974), written by Stevie Wonder, won the band their first Grammy Award. “Sweet Thing” (1975) became a signature ballad showcasing Khan’s vocal range, while “Ain’t Nobody” (1983), one of the band’s biggest hits, won a Grammy and remains a classic to this day. Key albums with Rufus include “Rufusized” (1974), which featured hits like “Once You Get Started” and solidified Rufus’s place in funk. “Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan” (1975) featured the hit “Sweet Thing,” and “Rags to Rufus” (1974) contained “Tell Me Something Good” and other funk classics. Chaka Khan’s solo career is equally impressive. “I’m Every Woman” (1978) from her debut solo album became a major hit and was later covered by Whitney Houston. “I Feel for You” (1984), a crossover hit written by Prince, topped the charts and won a Grammy. “Through the Fire” (1984) became a soulful ballad that is a staple in her repertoire. Her debut album “Chaka” (1978) featured “I’m Every Woman,” while “I Feel for You” (1984) included the title track hit, “This Is My Night,” and “Through the Fire.” “Destiny” (1986) included hits like “Love of a Lifetime.” Throughout her career, Chaka Khan has been supported by a range of talented background singers. Whitney Houston, before her rise to stardom, sang background vocals on Khan’s hit “I’m Every Woman.” Luther Vandross, known for his soulful voice, provided background vocals early in his career and significantly influenced her music. Cissy Houston, Whitney’s mother, also lent her voice to Khan’s tracks, along with Patti Austin, Brenda White King, Lisa Fischer, and Vivian Cherry. One notable collaboration was on the song “Papillon (aka Hot Butterfly)” from Khan’s 1980 album “Naughty.” Luther Vandross provided the background vocals, adding depth to the track. The song was written by Greg Diamond, a well-known songwriter and producer in the disco and funk genres. Chaka Khan has two children: Indira Milini Khan, born in 1973, who is also a singer and has performed with her mother on various occasions, and Damien Holland, born in 1979. Milini is her daughter from her relationship with Rahsaan Morris, while Damien is her son from her marriage to Richard Holland. Chaka Khan has won ten Grammy Awards over her career, both with Rufus and as a solo artist. In 2019, The Tiny Desk Concert series, hosted by NPR Music, has become a beloved platform showcasing intimate live performances by artists from various genres. It all began in 2008 when Bob Boilen, the creator and host of NPR’s “All Songs Considered,” and NPR music producer Stephen Thompson attended a concert by singer Laura Gibson. Frustrated by the noisy environment that made it difficult to enjoy the music, Thompson jokingly suggested that Gibson should perform at Boilen’s desk at the NPR offices. This playful idea soon turned into reality, and Laura Gibson became the first artist to perform a Tiny Desk Concert. The charm of Tiny Desk Concerts lies in their simplicity and intimacy. Artists perform behind a desk, often with minimal equipment and a stripped-down setup, which allows their raw talent and musicality to shine. The setting provides a unique and personal experience for both the artists and the audience, contrasting sharply with large, impersonal concert venues. Over the years, Tiny Desk Concerts have featured an eclectic mix of musicians from various genres, including pop, rock, hip-hop, jazz, classical, and world music. Some of the most memorable and popular performances include: The Tiny Desk Concert series has grown into a cultural phenomenon, providing a platform for both emerging and establiConclusion Chaka Khan’s legacy is one of immense talent and influence. From her early days with Rufus to her groundbreaking solo career,
Early Success with Rufus
Solo Stardom
Iconic Collaborations and Background Singers
Personal Life and Family
Legacy and Influence
The Tiny Desk Concert Series: A Musical Phenomenon
The Concept and Appeal
Notable Performances
Impact and Legacy
