Photography & writing: lenaringstad.com
There was laughter. There were stories that made you pause. And of course, there was music — the kind that reminds you why Melissa Manchester continues to resonate after all these years. A night of reflection, reinvention, and real connection.
On July 21, Melissa returned to the GRAMMY Museum’s Clive Davis Theater in Los Angeles for a sold-out evening that blended conversation, performance, and a lifetime of artistry. It marked her second appearance at the Museum — the first was in 2015, when she celebrated the release of You Gotta Love the Life, her first independent album. This latest visit brought everything full circle, as she reflected on how that spirit of independence still fuels her creative journey.
The evening highlighted her most recent work, including RE:VIEW, a vibrant reimagining of signature songs, and 50 Threads: An Artist’s Journey, a musical memoir that combines storytelling, reflection, and performance. She also offered a glimpse into AWAKE!, her first-ever concerto — a bold step into a new musical frontier.
Sue Holder was with her on stage throughout the evening, adding energy and richness on percussion and background vocals. For one special number, Melissa was joined by Bill Wood, whose bassoon subtly added an unexpected tonal layer, creating a moment of quiet depth within the set.
Between songs, Melissa spoke openly about her creative process (often beginning in pajamas), her early days on the road, and her long list of legendary collaborators — from Carole Bayer Sager and Kenny Loggins to Bernie Taupin and Paul Williams. She shared a touching story about her time studying songwriting with Paul Simon, and the surprise of reconnecting with him decades later.
Reflecting on the evening, she said, “It’s always a joy to share these moments with an audience that truly listens.” And that’s exactly what the night was — not just a concert, but a shared space of memory, artistry, and connection.