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Always and Forever, A Tribute to Luther, with Mario Desaussure
Always and Forever, was an evening of elegance, emotion, and vocal mastery—one that filled the Charleston Music Hall with timeless soul and undeniable presence. Charleston native, gospel vocalist, and international vocal powerhouse Mario Desaussure took the stage in a dazzling, custom-made suit jacket that sparkled under the lights, setting the tone for a night worthy of honoring one of the greatest male vocalists of all time, Luther Vandross.
From the first note, Mario didn’t just perform—he commanded the room. His rich tone, emotional phrasing, and effortless control paid reverent homage to Vandross while remaining unmistakably his own. The music hall was filled not only with sound, but with feeling—love, longing, joy, and nostalgia—woven into every lyric.
Elder Mario Desaussure’s musical roots run deep. A Charleston native, he began singing at just three years old in the Alpha Omega Reformed House of God Church, under the leadership of his great-grandfather, the late Bishop Aaron H. Moore, Sr. As the eldest son of the late Bruce “Sandy” Desaussure and the late Annette Moore Desaussure, Mario carries a legacy of faith, music, and service that informs every performance.
Over the years, Mario has shared stages with and ministered alongside renowned artists and groups across the Lowcountry, the United States, and Europe, including Vashawn Mitchell, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Ricky Dillard, Mike Brown and F.O.C.U.S., and many others. In 2020, he released his debut single, All In Your Hands, written and produced by his brother Shelton Desaussure—marking another milestone in a purpose-driven career.
With a life motto rooted in service—“If I can help somebody as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain”—A Tribute to Luther Vandross was more than a concert. It was a masterclass in soul, a celebration of legacy, and a reminder of the power of music to move hearts and elevate spirits.
Supporting Desaussure’s powerhouse vocals was a stellar ensemble led by music director and keyboardist Stephen Washington, bassist LaVontá Green, guitarist Greg Loney, drummer AJ Jenkins, saxophonist Chris Williams. Adding depth and soul were vocalists Javetta Campbell, Ashley Hale, Lori Major, and special guest Laura Ann Wilson of Columbia, creating lush harmonies that echoed the signature richness of Vandross’s catalog.
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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