Cynthia Erivo performs "Alfie" for Dionne Warwick | 46th Kennedy Center Honors

[@m.e.c.5837]

Quick story: I was in NYC for a business trip, I was overworked, depressed, I missed home. One day in my hotel room I was looking for Broadway tickets online to cheer myself up. I thought of calling the Amex concierge because I could not find good seats, and I did. They called me back incredibly excited and offered me a front row center ticket for The Color Purple. Literally in the middle and front row. I could touch the stage. J-Hud was still part of the cast and I thought omg I love her. I went to see this show for J-Hud (and obv I loved the movie The Color Purple as well) and then from the moment I heard Cynthia sing, the whole show, I was sobbing. This woman left her heart and soul on that stage. The vibrations I got from her (and from the whole cast) were insane. The palms of my hands were raw from clapping. She changed my life that day and gave me so much strength. Then the next day I went out for a run...and who do I bump into?? Cynthia!!! She was SO gracious, so kind, we were both sweaty and out of breath but she hugged me when I told her my story. I love her so much. That week in NYC changed my life and every time I feel down I think of that week and take energy from that moment. I am beautiful. And. I'm. HERE. EDIT: I never expected my comment to get this many likes, if any. But the comments... man. This beautiful experience I had, now almost a decade ago, changed my life forever. To this day it is continuing to touch my life. Look at all of these beautiful comments. The internet is full of hate and trolls, but one after the other, each and every comment I read here made me burst into tears. I can't reply all but I can tell you I know that moment came from a divine intervention. God, the universe, whatever you believe in. For me, God, he picked me up and sat me down front row center to watch her that day. The next day I was literally basking in that beautiful energy while running and she ran across me the moment I was thinking about her. And now I am reading these comments and they have just made my day. Just to let y'all know, I quit that job! I am a teacher now! No more corporate slavery. Sending all of you so much love and yes music heals. It's God's gift!

[@mcl-cp4go]

Great story! I, too, saw "The Color Purple" with Cynthia Erivo in NYC and was moved to tears. Surprised by how much I cried. Ms. Erivo has a very, very special gift.

[@mrkinla]

You are blessed to have had that total experience that came full circle. Magical.

[@bunnyfrosting1744]

Thank you for sharing this ❤ you’ve helped me decide to prioritize finally traveling.

[@winleel]

My first experience of her voice was same an unexpected and unplanned tickets to the Color Purple on Broadway. That night changed my life. She changed my life. Her voice is from another world.

[@SCK222]

🥺❤

[@danielb153]

Cynthia Erivo is the epitome of “the voice is an instrument”

[@YamiL-alwoeu]

Finite voice

[@helloxonsfan]

Yes! _Alfie_ is my all-time favorite song because the lyrics are so powerful...!!! The line that says "when you walk, let your heart lead the way..." is truly one of the best suggestions on how to live one's life...!!! Cynthia Erivo's performance was not just beautiful, it was also brilliant...!!! ❤

[@feliciagittens6911]

True words dear.❤

[@onicafoster6480]

The EPITOME of... 😩🥹💛💫

[@patrice5126]

Gorgeous! Rachelle Farrell is right up there too. 💗

[@mommyissue]

This like my 50th time watching, no joke 😭😭

[@justrandomthings709]

You're not alone 😭

[@maxsmeditationchannel2923]

Same

[@JohnBrown-ff6ez]

*#METOO*

[@AngelaWashington-ys7pn]

Same here. Beautiful!!!

[@kerenagyekum3612]

Same😂

[@tinagaughan6297]

Is no one going to mention the GORGEOUS dress??

[@jonldn]

What about that dress…… isn’t it Gorgeous and fitting the stunning performance

[@bettyleacraft488]

@@jonldn - Cynthia Erivo has always exhibited a high degree of personal style in every arena! Her entire Kennedy Center Honors "look" was true elegance above and beyond my expectations without the use of sequins, beads, or crystals! I too played this over and over and over! She was truly magnificent! Brava Cynthia Erivo

[@patriciaalston1082]

I love the dress. 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙

[@scribe712]

It's the first thing I noticed as she walked across the stage before she even began to sing. I love how wrinkle free it is. She must have one incredible stylist.

[@mateusrodrigues74]

🩵🩵 lindo 😊🎉

[@waynephillips5013]

I can't stop watching this. Clear as glass and sharp as a razor. Singing not just with power but also with intention and control. Mind blowing.

[@CaseyFordAlexander]

Yes

[@questyoungmarcus2599]

Smooth as silk

[@827shunbun]

I too, can't stop watching it! So beautifully sung!

[@BarbaraAnnHenderson]

Me either the whole show was great , She was in a class by herself.

[@Roshon1114]

Yes!!!

[@blackbroadwayandbeyond]

Give this woman all the standing ovations! 🙌🏾

[@mypageisbeinghacked]

She got one they didn't show it on here.

[@danyallehoward2873]

Yes

[@missmary7586]

Wow...Wow...Wow! What a voice!

[@explore4284]

AMEN 👏🏽👏🏽

[@jeffbellin8224]

I did at home!

[@pizzatoes]

If Cynthia has 1,000,000 fans I'm one of them. If she has 10, I'm one of them. If she only has 1, that is me. If she has 0, I am dead. I love her so much!

[@leslieburleson1631]

This is so sweet what you've did here, her voice is enchanting. Right out of a fairytale ❤

[@moviechick007]

Ditto to infinity!

[@Columbiana777]

I’m a fan of your comment❣️🥰

[@theconversationcurator]

ALL OF THIS!

[@tyarke2749]

Well said. Well said. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@tonemiller5256]

The hand movement, the energy, the look. Wow

[@raydavis1539]

I feel like she doesn’t “rehearse” she “researches” a song. She finds what the words mean to it then brilliantly describes it to us in pitch perfect voice.

[@hapbarb]

Reminiscent of Barbra Streisand's approach to singing.

[@sailorsavvy9690]

Yeesss you put it into perfect words!

[@frederickleo2386]

That's a beautiful sentiment. Yes, she owns the songs she chooses because of that feature.

[@KH-fd1vg]

She’s a professional

[@raydavis1539]

@@hapbarb somewhat…but Barbra is in sn uncontested category of brilliance 🫶🏽

[@stylinsoprano]

Her PLACEMENT. Her TONE. Lawd, if I had a 10th of that?!? I wouldn’t shut up. What an icon in the making honoring an icon 😍✨

[@leif1075]

Who says you can't get that with training and practice?

[@chanieee9566]

@@leif1075key word: TONE you can’t get a vocal tone through training. just the techniques. some ppl have good technique but their tone isn’t too good (no offense to them 😭)

[@rudolphmcneill515]

You can tell she also has the training and years of Broadway experience.

[@ceeceetracey9839]

You and me both, girl !!!

[@mbeneat]

about to post this. she's exquisite!

[@nicolaspicon2968]

I am gonna need a 12-step program just to get over this performance.

[@drawingaces9797]

One day, listening to this at least twice, at a time.

[@DeishaGuy]

Literally. Forreal. I'm sure I account for over half these views.

[@MissOtha]

😂😂🤣🤣🤣😂😂

[@abby999]

@@DeishaGuy same it just fills me with hope.

[@gragraboomicespice]

babes 12 steps aint that much just step over them like ;-;

[@bh4333]

Those two final notes ….. “Alfie”……. And “ Any Day”…… moving from head to chest to diagram floor ….. pitch perfect for ….3 bars….. intooooo vibrato ???!!!!! I don’t think people realize how vocally impossible this is. Then to draw back completely on “non believers can believe in” to a gentle lull on a dime….. there is not a single breath, pause, note, gesture that wasn’t completely intentional and thought out. Watch her rendition of “Feeling Good” you will lose your breath.

[@gquespr88]

Simply amazing!

[@-Allstate]

I thought I was the only one who realized this! She is truly talented and should be put down as one of the greatest singers of all time

[@1sava]

Her tone, her phrasing and her delivery are IMPECCABLE!!!!

[@mrkinla]

Not.... one..... flaw!

[@suttonwjr]

Magnificent. Hand her another Emmy.

[@cliftonwalker6659]

Listennnnnnn! Just for this performance alone

[@suttonwjr]

@@bobby12348you can get an Emmy for live performance. I believe that’s how she got her first one. Famously Whitney Houston got on for her Grammy performance of Saving all my love for you

[@wandahoward9636]

Right now!

[@rudolphmcneill515]

Or a Tony. She's a Broadway star also.

[@TX-wb6oj]

She’ll get one for Wicked

[@Rosannasfriend]

Look at Dionne Warwick's face at the very beginning of the video. She was already a fan of Cynthia erivo. She knew what was coming!

[@SopranoSistah]

👍🏾 Yep💯❣️❣️

[@triffus]

This!

[@stevenfigueroa5756]

Also ms Warwick wore the same color dress in her live performance as well. You can find it on youtube

[@j3black]

And, TO BE CLEAR, Dionne's interpretations of Bachrach's songs are amazing. That Warwick invites others to interpret what we could argue are her songs is why Warwick deserved to be honored.

[@tdaetaunm]

I watch this performance once a week, no exaggeration. I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at early ages and can often feel down, however hearing Cynthia sing, "Without true love we just exist," uplifts me.

[@MustaDujak]

Am I the only one who simply CANNOT wait to hear her rendition of Defying Gravity next year? She’s gonna kill it of course

[@ralphcarino5672]

from the little snippet from cinemacon they both sound incrediblee

[@tianingobeni9202]

DYING TO WATCH THE FILM

[@danholbrook7945]

I just know i'm gonna cry when she delivers 'I'm not that girl'

[@mscherylhtuff7600]

I would love ❤️ to hear her sing valley of the dolls

[@rafasantosbzr]

Hear it? I'll be standing up and singing along with her in the movie theater

[@nessabp14]

She did it again. I'm tellin' you that WOMAN HAS NO BOUNDARIES she is just magic. her tone, presence, everything!

[@irie256]

I'm so elated that Dionne Warick is honored while she's alive... A legend who's unique voice and lyric transcends time.

[@BDNIGGAH420]

Dionne looks PROUD not only for herself but for Cynthia as well. Cynthia NAILED IT!

[@JTAEKOOK4EVRR]

Yesss and it's about time that she gets the recognition that she rightfully deserves

[@kellifraley7700]

Yes 🙌🏼

[@walimvoiceoverartist]

I don’t know where Burt was mentally when he wrote this, but Cynthia jacked this song and remade it as her own interpretation. I am happy that she did. I’ve heard most of the great vocalists and this is a top 5 performance in my lifetime. Thank you Cynthia. This is priceless

[@cufcufcuf6731]

This was the performance of the night. So stunning!!! Just look at everyone's faces, utterly in awe of her.

[@joshuaalexander6296]

Yess, they were completely enchanted!

[@cptight88]

Glorious. Such a tough song to sing and sell, esp given that maybe 10% of the audience has seen the movie.

[@mikediddyTV]

@@cptight88I’m sure more than 10% have seen the movie. They didn’t adore Dionne for no reason. She was their Queen, their pop sensation back in her prime. She’s been here forever!

[@andygeisel2177]

Agree ... THE standout highlight of the show, hands down.

[@liannegreen692]

Yes, agreed

[@staceyluvmexoxo]

This dress, that skin, the voice 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@Gerberdaisy77]

💯

[@andya1744]

The nails!!!! She looks and sounds absolutely magical!!

[@coffeezombiedee]

The cheekbones...

[@derrickferguson8274]

She had the whole audience captivated. I cannot stop rewatching. Ms. Erivo is here to remind us that there are still real DIVAS amongst us. Salute 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@mrkinla]

Me either. A friend told me about it last night and we found it here. I have no words. Happy New Year.

[@FearLessPower]

There's people who can Sing. There's people who are "Singers". There's even people who are "Sangas".... Then there's ERIVO ✨

[@robertwebb3546]

This was far and away the standout performance of the night. Her phrasing and tone are just impeccable. Says a lot about Ms Warwick that she was so appreciative. Wish they’d give Barry Gibb this kind of tribute.

[@dzg8937]

She and The Clark Sisters

[@janicejackson884]

Did you miss Ben Platt? He was wonderful singing Nights on Broadway!

[@bonitahobbs2374]

****THE CLARK SISTERS LITERALLY MATCHED THIS YOUNG LADIES SINGING AND / OR AS A GROUP SURPASSED IT N I LIKE THEM ALL❗❗❗ GOOGLE THEM PLEASE N WHOOPI'S HEARTFELT WORDS TO THE GREAT BILLY CRYSTAL TOUCHED ALL OF OUR HEARTS AS WELL FIND THIS ON GOOGLE, HULU ETC. N ENJOY YOUR DIGNIFIED , RARE PRESENT-DAY TV VIEWING❗❗❗🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟*******

[@dzg8937]

@@christophersimpson5457 They have been killin it all year long and forever but these past couple years they have really really been on fire!

[@gpcollier]

This is the performance of the year!

[@fabioazevedo9457]

It's not only the vocal agility, nor the knowledge in music. But it's that with the capacity of telling the story with a great piece of herself. I love you Cynthia 🥺❤️‍🔥

[@clcris]

Cynthia is a great storyteller, she is a actress a musical theatre actress! ❤

[@johngeorgewashington1416]

That was Soul..if we ever could define it..that was it.

[@SopranoSistah]

💯🎯👏🏾👏🏾✅

[@mutelarsorhougbe4606]

So well said! ‘Vocal agility’ precisely! She is a wonder!🌟🫶🏽

[@ministerofmusicCWG]

I believe I've replayed this over 25 times. Cynthia totally knocked this out of the park. Her technique and musical genius is just remarkable. What a way to honor a legend Dionne Warwick.

[@zbagz01]

She is such an intelligent singer. She knows how to interpret a song and how to use her incredible range. I think every young singer could learn a lot from her. She follows in the grand tradition of Ella and Judy and Lena and Barbara and Whitney and Dionne, of course.

[@princessgalactic2763]

Me too been on repeat for hours 🔁🔁🔁

[@cynthiaflowers6236]

Me too!!! I can't stop watching this. I'm a student in her classroom. Anything she does is done with EXCELLENCE!❤❤

[@DianeMarieT72]

Agree with ALL of this!! She is a treasure, and she moves my soul when she sings.

[@gabyelyzabeth3569]

I hope Cynthia Erivo knows that this performance means so much to a lot of us...

[@LightninRodsAttractMagic]

SO MUCH!!!!😩♥🎶

[@dayram6217]

Controlled, soulful, passionate. She does not sing. She tells a story; and that's the power.

[@mutelarsorhougbe4606]

Precisely, precisely, precisely!!!

[@FFSnotagain]

That ending was so Whitney it gave us goosebumps in the audience and at home. That sort of endings are epic. That little run at 2:55 that anticipates the big ending… great!

[@liannegreen692]

OH PULEESE !!! vomit over your comment ...

[@pinkblackbrown]

CAPTIVATING💣💣

[@shelbythe2ds526]

The ending was so Cynthia ❤

[@tomassoriano3103]

@@shelbythe2ds526 YES, AMEN!!!

[@annetteharris8296]

The ending was ALL Cynthia.

[@GabrielLopez-ck9jc]

This was the best performance of the night in my opinion. Her tone, phrasing, agility, and how she told the story of this song brought me to tears and filled my heart. This is what true story tellers can do with an amazing instrument. I've watched it so many times and I cannot get over it.

[@louisehancock324]

Amen.

[@kcrudup2687]

Facts. Nothing but . I've seen this performance described throughout the comments as "mind-blowing ," "stunning ", "mesmerizing " (which it was .) And those are STILL masterpieces of understatement!!! My eyes still sting whenever I watch it

[@kcrudup2687]

😢

[@BeautyLoves88]

🥲😩😭 cynthia tells the STORY of the lyrics when she sings….every single note, pause & run is INTENTIONAL

[@daniellemaree3584]

Here are the lyrics What's it all about, Alfie? Is it just for the moment we live? What's it all about when you sort it out, Alfie? Are we meant to take more than we give Or are we meant to be kind? And if only fools are kind, Alfie Then I guess it's wise to be cruel And if life belongs only to the strong, Alfie What will you lend on an old golden rule? As sure as I believe there's a heaven above, Alfie I know there's something much more Something even non-believers can believe in I believe in love, Alfie Without true love we just exist, Alfie Until you find the love you've missed you're nothing, Alfie When you walk let your heart lead the way And you'll find love any day, Alfie Alfie ...

[@yonatanmartinez2277]

❤❤

[@SERJKAZARIAN]

Thanks!

[@Esc8p1sm_]

I can't stop playing this. This is just pure brilliance.

[@tremaine861]

Same!!!! This is out worldly 😍

[@dianagiordano1278]

ME2!!!!!!!

[@karimsings4098]

I was just saying how not many of today's artists really have "iconic" moments or "big notes." This is just ONE of several great vocal moments from Cynthia. She's definitely here to stay and has been leaving her mark and never missing it, EVERY TIME! She is just remarkable! She will be one of the legendary artists that future generations will look up to and study.

[@nancy1952]

Amen!

[@dorothyp4714]

Absolutely

[@luisnieves8242]

how to overkill a pretty song.

[@kevseb66]

You can see the nods and looks of approval in the audience. Cynthia E. never disappoints. She did Burt. Bacharach, Hal David and Dionne Warwick very proud.

[@galenstone9097]

I grew up with the Warwick original. This lady's reading delivered an absolutely jaw dropping tribute. One of the hardest songs to sing well, ever.

[@chiqtheequeen]

Yes!

[@sharone.langley2923]

Ms. Dionne was so pleased...such an exquisite tribute. I can't stop watching and re-watching.

[@OctoberLibra1]

When I hear Cynthia Erivo, ANYTHING....I know it's going to be EXCELLENT. When she was announced, you could see Dionne's face light up and then when Cynthia opened her mouth, Dionne just melted...Her expression was of a proud mother...and of course Cynthia NEVER disappoints. Her voice is so strong and powerful, no excruciating runs and riffs that so many singers do today....she stayed true to the spirit of the song, and Dionne grew up in a time where you sing the song, the lyrics, notes as they were written and not over sing to the point the song is unrecognizable. The tone, texture and simplicity of her voice is Amazing...Amazing performance, amazing voice, amazing woman...

[@brandylou9132]

Very well expressed!! ❤️

[@missclaymsdavis8640]

Ms. Warwick's expression was most certainly one of approval. I think I might've seen her eyes glistening. Cynthia Erivo's rendition was magnificent and masterfully done! She's incredible and Ms. Warwick is an icon.

[@lizzylaronde2234]

👏

[@des.4381]

I completely agree. What a voice. My goodness made me cry. I was genuinely touched through and through. I love Cynthia. Just beautiful!!! She looks amazing.

[@Mapes2023]

@October Libra1 You said it all! I think you were in my mind and felt my soul. Your response is excellent, eloquent, and oh-so-beautiful and true. Thank you! ✨✨✨💥💥

[@adrianovisagie]

You watch one Cynthia Erivo clip and just continue watching all her performances. She’s what we will one day call LEGENDARY!

[@gracefulcharm55]

That’s what I’m currently doing right now 🤧😂

[@sydvargas]

This needs to be on Spotify NEOWWWW😩😩

[@starjeongyeon.]

RIGHTTT???

[@stephaniehamilton1630]

Give Cynthia all the flowers. She's magnificent that voice.

[@BoetPrince]

The Academy should give her her Oscar next

[@TwilightLuluFleur]

⁠@@BoetPrince and she will with wicked!

[@justfabbermuda2202]

When I tell you Cynthia gave me goosebumps hearing her sing Dionne’s iconic song, it brought tears to my eyes. She made Dionne proud, I know I am.

[@marysalvi242]

@justfabbermuda2202 I had tears too and I notice Dionne's seemed a bit filled..I think these shows when you have an amazing person singing one of your biggest hit songs from the past, boy that's emotional ~ I saw Dionne last year and she wasn't fully feeling well, what a pro in handling us by having us singing some parts of her songs while obviously done to save her voice for some notes she was determined to hit ~ & yeah she did...

[@luisnieves8242]

go to a doctor.

[@jacobskinner3522]

@@luisnieves8242 clearly your doctor wasn’t successful in removing that stick from your butt.

[@QueendomCome621]

See a therapist​@@luisnieves8242

[@justfabbermuda2202]

@@luisnieves8242 bye troll

[@mj54123]

Cynthia Erivo is THAT girl. Showstopping every time she opens her mouth

[@j3black]

Dionne Warwick deserves every damn accolade. And Cynthia Erivo's tribute channels that truth.

[@diazjr1975]

This was simply AMAZING! She had the crowd memerized! Bravo Cynthia!

[@davidamathis9627]

Mesmerized. Yes she did.

[@nsquared8643]

Mesmerized. Yes I was.

[@nadzimbakri3021]

Cynthia is a storyteller. We want to hear her voice over and over. Outstanding performance of the night

[@argiemauricio6054]

Alfie Lyrics (Hope it helps) 😊 What's it all about Alfie Is it just for the moment we live What's it all about When you sort it out, Alfie Are we meant to take more than we give Or are we meant to be kind? And if, if only fools are kind, Alfie Then I guess it is wise to be cruel And if life belongs only to the strong, Alfie What will you lend on an old golden rule? As sure as I believe there's a heaven above Alfie, I know there's something much more Something even non-believers can believe in I believe in love, Alfie Without true love we just exist, Alfie Until you find the love you've missed You're nothing, Alfie When you walk let your heart lead the way And you'll find love any day Alfie, Alfie

[@Rosannasfriend]

Thank you for the lyrics. It makes it even easier to appreciate how she was telling the story of the lyrics with her body and voice even more.

[@GoWithin4]

Thank you 🙏

[@CeeGeeZ]

Thank You.

[@angiilumpkins-sanders2889]

I’ve probably watched this a gazillion times and each time I’m in awe of her vocal mechanics and skill…. ❤her voice

[@beatrizramosrobles6992]

Thanks so much for the lyrics. It is one of my favourite song and I've seen the film many times....😊❤

[@neesabynoon2712]

1:35 that “I Knowwww” gives me goosebumps everytime

[@rrubio6660]

Never disappoints...all she needs is an Oscar to be the next EGOT!😁

[@coffeecake8835]

YES!!

[@Musicteachphorton]

She gonna get it with Wicked . Mark my words !

[@rrubio6660]

@@Musicteachphorton Fingers crossed!

[@florencedelvalle8145]

God will do it!🤞🏽🤞🏽🙏🙏👏🏽👏🏽 3:17

[@zbagz01]

She should have gotten it for "Stand Up". But it was a tough contest.

[@thelisajourney]

This performance is wonderful and she sang with not just her voice, but literally body and soul. The way her hands moved gracefully coupled with her facial expressions and body movements, took her performance to another level.

[@CaseyFordAlexander]

Masterful

[@johngeorgewashington1416]

Yes and the camera captured it perfectly.

[@jtopaz]

Totally mesmerizing. I 100% believe everything she sings.

[@evonnemccausland3531]

The GREATEST singers are the ones who have great ACTING skills with their voices. They know how to make the performance SOAR as well as pull you in. Very few are in Cynthia Erivo's caliber!!!

[@YeeHaww]

Yes that’s what’s I’m saying!! Her emotions and facial expressions and hand movements and all that, adds so much more to the performance! She’s just amazing!🤩🤩🤩

[@veela44]

I’ve watched this WAY too many times. Cynthia’s just too mesmerizing..

[@carmenfields2146]

Such a beautiful, strong, clear voice.🎶🎶👏🏾👏🏾💝what a gift. From the look on Dionnes face, Cynthia made her very proud.

[@Black_diamond_243]

She’s doing it with grace and so effortlessly…This woman is the epitome of talent & gift! Better put respect on her name!!💯

[@latriciaflowers5771]

This was the most magical performance vocally that I’ve heard in a VERRRRY long time- Her talent is immeasurable 🎉Took my breath away… BRAVO‼️👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@tracyclark7560]

@latriciaflowers5771 search Cynthia Erve (sp.) Ain't No Way sung at Albert Hall. Breathtaking!

[@kimablett7447]

Beautiful

[@angelstar7656]

I got misty eyed. She was magnificent.

[@teecee-id7xx]

​@@kimablett7447ppLĺ😊p

[@adriancolon8435]

This should be released on all music platforms

[@brandonstokes392]

Sooo ready for this lovely queen to be an EGOT winner!! I hope the Emmy voters nominate this stellar performance!!

[@ISGEORGES]

It’s unhealthy the times i’ve watch this video; such a gorgeous performance 🤍!!!!

[@jthomasmack]

SAME. As close to heaven as it gets on earth 💯

[@myamichole]

Same!! I can’t stop. She sounds so beautiful!!

[@cls3201]

I'm up at at least 2xs a day myself!!! It's soooo good!!

[@LondonHasFallin]

I'm on about my 8th time. 😅

[@myronbirdsong4493]

I know right 😊I'm obsessed!

[@sharonkaysnowton]

Cynthis Erivo has a beautiful voice. She sang "Alfie" beautifully.

[@You926TAB]

I watch this so often it’s embarrassing

[@no-rq8dh]

DAILY OCCURRENCE

[@dominiqueparrish5860]

Same!!

[@MrApolloIII]

Because it’s a perfect performance. Understandable.

[@raejohnson960]

Me too...currently on the tube watching it while I drink my coffee...magical

[@justinleflore5366]

Same

[@calebveitch3338]

I can’t imagine how incredible her voice will be in the Wicked movie. Her vocal control here is otherworldly. She and Ariana are truly going to elevate those songs to another level.

[@danielisntreal6190]

She's going to devour Defying Gravity

[@branplore]

I just saw her two days before whistling unhumanly on Jimmy Falon. Then I saw this live on tv and had to relive this performance on KZbin. Super talented, amazing person.

[@GroovinSassaFrass]

If you get the chance, look up George Lovett feat. Cynthia Erivo A Thousand Years. They do an improvised whistling performance towards the second half of the song. Brilliant.

[@barbaramiller6451]

Talents galore, it's authentic, natural, God given and she uses it, wisely she's a beautiful natural black woman.

[@lindsaydt66]

OK... I mean who whistles like that; in tone and so beautifully?!?!?!?!? These's no bounds to her talent!!!

[@eds3969]

This was sensational, but it wasn’t live. It was taped Dec.3rd.

[@maikzosso8314]

Everytime Cynthia performs, it's giving me goosebumps. She has/is true talent! Thanks Cynthia for your gift!!

[@e.t3693]

She is severely underrated, her vocal range and abilities are up there with the greats! 🙏

[@talia3595]

Her performance was stunning!! Simply perfection. My mother and I knew a minute into it there would be a standing ovation. Truly showcasing one of God’s many gifts! You go girlll!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ryanmoore7591]

This should go down in the top 5 best Kennedy Center Honors performances. Nobody sings like the one and only Cynthia Erivo!!! You can tell they picked this song specifically for "Wicked" and I am so glad we get to see her flex her vocal muscles before her Alfie turns to Elfie 😍

[@pj2614]

I’m a 6’3” grown man and this made me tear-up. What a dazzling, superb, stellar performance.

[@austinstephenson2625]

The woman’s reaction at 2:23 said it all

[@lizlemon3698]

I don’t know how her voice has the ability to be both powerful and intense, and light and innocent. Craziest balance.

[@susang.9067]

Honestly Dionne had the same qualities in the original. This song requires so much agility and control Cynthia E was a great choice, a brilliant performance

[@jametoriaburton6201]

Cynthia's tribute performance to Dioanne Warwick singing "Allfie" was absolutely mesmerizing! WOW!

[@gregoryalexander3963]

Dionne is a national treasure, and she was perfect in her tribute!

[@dexterblandin5384]

I'VE WATCHED THIS OVER 10 TIMES!!!! AND PLAN TO WATCH IT AGAIN AND AGAIN!!!

[@diannesanders1910]

Me too!

[@scribe712]

Same her. I can't stop watching it either.

[@healthyliving523]

Omg me tooo!!!

[@Swameh]

Twice in a row. Can't get enough.

[@Harold434]

I have watched this for almost 50x now since it was 1st uploaded. Still can't get over this performance.

[@1999jetta]

She's so brave. Stands flat-footed and delivers her art with no hesitation.

[@adesuaoseghale1306]

Ive watched this maybe a million times and it still takes my breath away

[@jacquelineduplantier5563]

👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@ebn646]

me too!!

[@fitjock1]

Same

[@AveryDWilson]

Meeeeee toooo!!! 😭🙌🏿🩵

[@debmc2291]

Same here! She sends chills down my spine with her voice. Just so beautiful!

[@leebrannt1]

She put a spell on me. I keep coming back to watch her.

[@myronbirdsong4493]

Me too! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@venathomas6378]

My Moma was a huge Dionne Warwick fan. When I 1st heard this, I FELT Moma's spirit visit me. She’s been gone almost 7 years. I've often prayed for a visitation from her in some way. The night this aired & all the times I play this, I feel her. Thank you Kennedy Center Honors for picking Cynthia Erivo for this tribute to 1 of Moma's favorite singers.

[@rasseruuu373]

aww🥺❤️

[@awula5385]

May God bless you! 🙏

[@rochelle9562]

After watching this 800 times, I must say the orchestra was on point! They provided the perfect canvas for her artwork. What a team.

[@deborahgodley6980]

One of my favorite Dionne W songs written by the legendary and recently departed Burt Bacharach.Cynrhia killed it!

[@dennismclaurin1487]

Would've been nice if Burt were present for this special occasion

[@mollymcvey6483]

Burt considered this to be one of his finest collaborations ever written. He loved this song. I'm so pleased that they honored all with this song sung so magnificently.

[@blessedgirl4101]

That orchestra, though? Especially at her crescendos. Mind blowing!!!

[@mr.turner5234]

its not mentioned enough in the comments, but they FOR SURE backed her up. This was a masterful composition!!

[@Egypt22]

Cynthia’s voice is magical❤❤❤

[@Killercroissants]

You can just tell that Cynthia is so honored and humbled to be in the presence of Dion. Just as Dion is humbled and honored to be given a tribute by Cynthia. You can feel the energy of recognition from Dion and the admiration from Cynthia. It's magical. It's lightning in a bottle. A moment of musical magic.

[@kgiovanni9443]

Why does this women bring tears to my eyes every time she sings? What a gift she has and what a treasure Dionne Warwick is!!

[@blushbaby5278]

Woman not women

[@DianeMarieT72]

Brings tears to my eyes, too!!

[@paulcanaday-elliott9834]

My. God. I’m in tears. And the thing is, you can hear Dionne Warwick in her voice, her tone, her placement (or am I imagining things?). She really is honoring her in the best way possible, while also absolutely taking your breath away. First there was Adam Lambert with Cher. Now Cynthia Erivo with Dionne Warwick. Both are stunning. This one leaves me breathless.

[@rrubio6660]

Don't forget Jennifer Hudson's tribute to Al Green in 2014.

[@marchjoy7391]

@@rrubio6660 Not a memorable performance...obviously

[@rrubio6660]

@@marchjoy7391 Agree to disagree...obviously.

[@Cassandra-d5n]

Absolutely phenomenal performance. She should release this as a cover

[@jeannewashington7964]

I love hearing Cynthia sing. A few years ago, Earth, Wind and Fire was honored at the Kennedy Center, and Cynthia sang "Reasons." I cried tears of immense joy. ❤🎉 ❤ I adore her.

[@pnelson1432]

And she was magical when opening with part of "Fantasy" by Earth, Wind & Fire. What an incredible talent Cynthia is ! !

[@ClearandHealthyBoundaries]

I have that performance downloaded on my phone like an album single.

[@OctoberLibra1]

I missed that, but thanks to you, I'm going find it....she's amazing.

[@xxxrr00]

I LOVE that performance!!!!

[@lindsaydt66]

ANOTHER breathtaking performance by her!

[@BL-gk9pd]

2:03 gets me into tears every time I listen to this song ❤

[@corysanon7084]

She is criminally underrated! She has one of the best voices of this generation!

[@annetteharris8296]

Why people saying she's underrated? She's an Emmy, Tony and Grammy winning artist. And she won all 3 awards in one year. No artist has done that. She's scheduled to be in Wicked next year? How is that underrated?

[@ava7802]

No I think not. No

[@corysanon7084]

@@annetteharris8296by that I meant her music. She has an album out (which is exceptional) & it did not really do great numbers.

[@jayr3053]

💯

[@Tboneman35]

There is no one like Cynthia Erivo. Free voice, incredible strength and vocal efficiency, when she sings it just transports you to a realm that you never imagined. There are not enough words to describe her mastery of performance.

[@adriennicasio38]

No one came close to this powerhouse of an artist! Love me some Cynthia Erivo!💙,.. Been paving her own lane!✨

[@khosivilakazi642]

I cant sing to save my life but I know this is singing at its best.I love this women

[@louisehancock324]

She is a vocal queen. She has voice, that should be considered a God given instrument. She has range, clarity and the emotions that draw you in no matter the genre she sings. Thank you Ms. Erivo.👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@deandrejones8701]

Listen, there's only a few people that can send chills down my spine and make me cry and this woman is one of them. She SANG this song do ya'll hear me!?! You can look at Dionne's face at the beginning and see how elated she was when Cynthia walked out. She KNEW she was about to be given her flowers properly. Absolutely amazing...one of the best voices on the PLANET!!!!!!!! #iloveus #blackexcellence

[@davidlincolnbrooks]

You said it.

[@j.a.whittler6983]

Cynthia's version Alfi was spectacular! Her voice is so beautiful. She's a wonderful actress, as well. 👏🏾👏🏾😘😎🙏🏾

[@sondoshine]

I keep coming back for more…. It’s amazing!

[@puppymcpupsters]

I just know the voice teacher channels are gonna go crazy for this because her voice is beautiful and clear and gorgeous and just so pure I can't even describe it it's like listening to the audio equivalent of a hot knife through room temp butter it's so smooth and delicious and I love this woman

[@savannah6982]

Magnificent performance I'm a new fan of Cynthia Erivo.Never heard her sing and knew it was her I can't stop listening to this performance.She made me feel that song with my heart.Cynthia you are a Awesome ,Brilliantly delivered Alfie to us.Ms.Warwick was so happy to see and hear you perform her song no one in this world could have done it better not even Whitney and she's in her own class vocally..well one more time tonight.GREATNESS

[@judithpriestess7781]

GobSMACKED! Her vocal agility, clarity, projection, presence, her VIBRATO!! Cynthia is a wonder of the world. Absolutely stunning 😍

[@Kudzi]

Same. Wow

[@luisnieves8242]

all that for overkilling a good ballad.

[@dreasbn]

Bacharach's music may be recognized as easy listening but it's definitely not easy singing.. and she does it as if it's nothing special... impeccable vocals and performance.. breathtaking

[@saliko59]

You are so right. Cilla Black said “It was ever so difficult, the range in it was unbelievably hard. It was hurting me”

[@IronheartvsMiles]

Nothing a Blacks do is easy. Blacks make everything look easy.

[@Isaacweston2006]

Im back after the new Wicked teaser to just refresh the excitement of Cynthia as Elphaba

[@studiowebber2486]

the performance of a lifetime. i will revisit this forever

[@202mitch]

This feels like pure magic. Like that feeling you get when you see your Disney movies brought to life at Disney World for the first time. It takes your breath away. It’s a wave of emotions you wish to have for the rest of your life. Capture it in a bottle. Keep it forever. Cynthia is a true gift.

[@SoSillyWilly26]

One of the greatest voices of this generation. Period. She can sing anything!!

[@aroidpapa]

I have come to this video daily for the last two weeks. she's just so good. Seeing Dionne tear up makes me so emotional too.