Photo Credit: Raquelle Harris for Steed Media
Thanksgiving eve did not disappoint this year as the electrifying energy of rock maven Steffanie Christi’an was unleashed. The singer-songwriter delivered a dynamic performance at the Charles H. Wright Museum in Detroit, during Nice and Rough: A Night with Steffanie and Tina. This was not simply a tribute to musical legend Tina Turner, but a grand exhibition of Christi’an’s signature artistry. Host and poet, jessica Care moore described Christi’an as humble with an undeniable ability to make you feel things that you want to keep hidden. Fans were willingly exposed as she stalked the stage one minute, while seducing it the next.
Christi’an opened with “Limbo,” from her upcoming album It’s Complicated. Its soothing groove got the audience primed for a night of breath-snatching vocals, impressive dance moves and robust instrumentals. Flanked by a live band and two sexy backup singers, Christi’an switched back and forth between her material and Turner’s classics, highlighting jams from the Ike and Tina days and beyond. The diverse crowd was wowed as she performed songs like, “Proud Mary,” “You Got What You Wanted” and “Fool In Love.” Her aura oozed grit and sensuality as she embodied the poise of a legend. Brief moments came when if you closed your eyes, you could swear that Turner was onstage.
Crowd favorites of Christi’an’s original material were the raw “Overdraft,” the vulnerable “There You Go,” and the defiant, yet cohesive “What You Gonna Do.” Each song revealed a piece of this seminal artist — who expressed sincere enthusiasm and gratitude for all who were present. Not merely a singer covering one of her idols, Christi’an has a unique presence. Expressing her consciousness, she acknowledged a desire to do more. Yet, she simply offered a cathartic and memorable engagement in harmonious elevation.
There’s already buzz for future tribute concerts honoring either Anita Baker, Aretha Franklin or Phyllis Hyman. Peep moments from the show in the photo gallery below.
Photo Gallery by Raquelle Harris for Steed Media
