“I am a soul singer” | News, Sports, Jobs

“I have a special connection to Aretha Franklin because my mother, Katie Love, and her group Katie Love and the Four Shades of Black recorded in Muscle Shoals with the Swampers (session musicians) who backed Aretha,” Renee explains. “Aretha’s music has always been a part of our lives. I’m a soul singer. I sing a little bit of everything, but if I had to choose one style of music that really represents me, it would be soul music. I sing 15 of Aretha’s biggest hits and it’s a difficult show to choose 15.”

When asked about her favorite Aretha song, she says “No way” from the album “Lady Soul.”

“Aretha was the only singer who could make me cry when I was young,” She says. “I listened to her records and I could just feel Aretha. So those songs are special to me.”

On July 24, she will pay tribute to Nina Simone, followed by Luther Vandross on September 25 and Ella Fitzgerald on November 27. The 2025 shows will honor Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Frank Sinatra, Earth Wind & Fire, and Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole.

“I tell the artist’s life story while singing the songs, chronologically from the beginning of his career to the end of his career,” She says. “The great thing about the show at ProArts is that, because it’s a theater, I can bring my theatrical side more into the show. It really is a cabaret.”

Renee has been a professional singer for about 45 years, moved to Maui two years ago and was in high demand as a very talented artist. “I feel rejuvenated here,” She says. “There are so many great musicians and singers. I’ve been coming here since 1998 and working with Bryant Neal and Jazz Maui. But I didn’t know I would work like this. I didn’t know I would fall in love with the music business and entertainment again.”

In addition to the ProArts show, Renee will perform at Longhi’s Kaanapali on June 27th with the “Yeah right!” Dinner show and on June 30th with the Island Soul Band at Mulligan’s on the Blue.

“Sheryl Renee salutes … Aretha Franklin” takes place on June 26th at 7 p.m. at the ProArts Playhouse. Tickets range from $20 to $35.