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A Tribute to the Empress of Soul – Gladys Knight
A Tribute to the Empress of Soul is a powerhouse celebration of legacy, lineage, and timeless soul—originally performed on December 3, 2022 as part of the P.U.R.E. Concert Series, Season 3. At its heart is the commanding voice of Charleston native Ashley S. Hale, whose dynamic vocals and magnetic stage presence breathe new life into the music and spirit of Gladys Knight.
This electrifying tribute goes beyond a standard concert experience. The evening featured the iconic male trio, The Pips—portrayed with style and authenticity by JT Holmes, Thomas Brown, and Mario Desaussure—bringing the classic harmonies, choreography, and swagger that defined an era. Together, they recreated the sound, movement, and emotional depth that made the Empress of Soul unforgettable.
One of the most moving moments of the night came when the spotlight shifted to the next generation. Daughters of Stephen Washington, Zandrina Dunning, Ashley Hale, and Ashley’s sister Stephanie Hale took the stage for a beautifully choreographed routine, dancing to the soulful sounds of Deeh Middleton. This intergenerational moment underscored the heart of the show: honoring the past while boldly nurturing the future.
Ashley S. Hale is no stranger to the performing arts. A Charleston native with an international performance résumé, she has been captivating audiences since age 13, starring in acclaimed stage productions including Daddy’s Little Girl, Romello, Bubbling Brown Sugar, Life I & II, What Holds Us Together, and Illusions. Her vocal journey began even earlier—at just five years old—rooted in the church, where her powerful, unwavering voice was first cultivated.
With passion that radiates from the moment she steps on stage, Ashley Hale delivers more than a performance—she delivers an experience. A Tribute to the Empress of Soul is a dynamic, soulful, and deeply moving homage that celebrates excellence, artistry, and the enduring power of music passed from one generation to the next.
This show also featured Glady Knight’s iconic male trio, “The Pips” portrayed by JT Holmes, Thomas Brown, and Mario Desaussure.
About The ZD Experience
The ZD Experience is a dynamic boutique concert and event production company powered by the combined gifts of vocalist/media host/producer Zandrina Dunning and composer/arranger/pianist Stephen Washington.
Specializing in creating unforgettable experiences, we handle everything from intimate shows to large-scale tribute events.
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