In 2006, gay singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright recreated gay icon Judy Garland’s 1961 smash album, Judy at Carnegie Hall, note for note in concert at the venerable New York City venue. Well, almost note for note. Wainwright couldn’t quite match Garland’s zingy swing. But he was so determined to get it right, he chatted up the audience at selected intervals, because, as he told the crowd at one point, “This is where Judy talked.” The two-disc souvenir, Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall, presents Wainwright at his most flaming, exuberant, and affectionate. He hauls out his mom — folk icon Kate McGarrigle — and singer-songwriter sis Martha for a couple of cuts, and his droll banter rivals Garland’s onstage blurts (he even ribs the orchestra, just like the old-timers used to). Like Garland’s Carnegie Hall, Wainwright’s is only as good as its songs. And he nails Great American Songbook staples like “Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart,” “Over the Rainbow,” and the medley that includes the zippy “Trolley Song.” It doesn’t get gayer — or better — than this.
This article appears in Jan 16-22, 2008.
Please consider becoming a member of The Judy Garland Experience, the worlds largest Judy Garland group!
Our membership includes Garland family members and friends, Judy’s co-workers, authors, film makers, other celebrities, and the most eclectic collection of Judy fans anywhere. The only one missing is you!
Every week we post new ultra rare Judy files. This week, along with rehearsal and broadcast performances we are featuring Judy’s complete concert at Orchestra Hall, her performance at The Night Of 100 Stars, a snarky performance at a private party, and other rare and unrleased recordings. We also have rare recordings by Judy’s friends and co-workers (this week there is a 1994 all star tribute to Miss Peggy Lee posted. The tribute took place at the Beverly Hilton and features live performance by Ruth Brown, Jow Williams, Rosemary Clooney, K.D. Lang, The Manhattan Tranfer, and others).
The group also has an amazing photo collection featuring hundreds of never before seen images of Judy (many taken by our members).
The group also features lively discussions on a wide variety of subjects.
Please stop by our little Judyville and check it out, you may never want to leave!
http://movies.groups.yahoo.com/group/thejudygarlandexperience/