VEGAS WATCH: Taste Of Brandye

BY CAPUCINE HOLMES

South Point Hotel and Casino was the site of a historic gathering on a recent Tuesday, as people from across America came together for a rare taste of Brandye — the outstanding singing trio comprised of Donna Davis Sadler, Cynthia Douglas, and Pamela Vincent, reuniting after several decades.

Brandye have made over 4,000 records by singing background for such acclaimed artists as Aretha Franklin, Bob Hope, Peabo Bryson, Johnny Taylor, James Brown, Funkadelic, Millie Jackson, Isaac Hayes, Bobby Womack, Bob Seger, Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis, The Dramatics, Lattimore, David Ruffin, Denise LaSalle, Phillipe Wynn and many others.

The trio met during their high school years. A love of music created a bond of sisterhood. And the sisterhood of music keeps their bond strong today.

In Hollywood, Brandye is known for their distinctive sound on motion picture soundtracks and national commercials. For example, they can be heard alongside Aretha Franklin on a rendition of “Someday We’ll All Be Free” that is featured on the soundtrack of Spike Lee’s “Malcolm X.”

Among those in attendance to witness the Brandye reunion: Grammy-winning producer Jason “Poo Bear” Boyd, who is Sadler’s son-in-law — married to her daughter, Ashley Joi. He is known worldwide for his work with artists ranging from Usher to Justin Bieber, and will no doubt be one of the creative forces behind Brandye’s imminent comeback and transition from vinyl to iTunes download.