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

www.kennedy-center.org/whats-...
Cynthia Erivo brings down the house with her soulful rendition of "Alfie" in a heartfelt tribute to 2023 Honoree Dionne Warwick.
The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual honor given to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is proud to celebrate the 46th Honorees for lifetime artistic achievements: actor and comedian Billy Crystal; acclaimed soprano Renée Fleming; British singer-songwriter producer, and member of the Bee Gees, Barry Gibb; rapper, singer, and actress Queen Latifah; and singer Dionne Warwick.
The event took place Sunday, December 3rd, 2023, in the Kennedy Center Opera House, and premieres Wednesday, December 27 at 8pm ET on CBS and will be available for viewing on Paramount+.
#KCHonors #CBS #kennedycenter
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[@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) was 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 it has 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😂

[@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.

[@user-ie9fu2dw1u]

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

[@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!

[@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!!!

[@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

[@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 😊🎉

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@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. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@staceyluvmexoxo]

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

[@user-dh4jl1nw1v]

💯

[@andya1744]

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

[@coffeezombiedee]

The cheekbones...

[@Esc8p1sm_]

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

[@tremaine861]

Same!!!! This is out worldly 😍

[@dianagiordano1278]

ME2!!!!!!!

[@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]

❤❤

[@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.

[@TC-wb6oj]

She’ll get one for Wicked

[@1sava]

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

[@mrkinla]

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

[@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!

[@tonemiller5256]

The hand movement, the energy, the look. Wow

[@nessabp14]

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

[@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

[@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!🤩🤩🤩

[@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!!

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@bluemoon7785]

It's the perfect blend of Broadway and jazz for me.

[@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!🌟🫶🏽

[@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]

😢

[@gabyelyzabeth3569]

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

[@LightninRodsAttractMagic]

SO MUCH!!!!😩♥🎶

[@leebrannt1]

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

[@myronbirdsong4493]

Me too! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@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.

[@mj54123]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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! ✨✨✨💥💥

[@mackenziewilber]

I’ve watched this 700 times ❤

[@darlenegantt3954]

Every time I hear this beautiful song I start crying. People that are kind are treated so cruel. If you are a good kind person stay that way never change who you are. GOD loves you for you. Cynthia is such a wonderful talented singer. ❤❤❤

[@nadzimbakri3021]

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

[@diazjr1975]

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

[@davidamathis9627]

Mesmerized. Yes she did.

[@nsquared8643]

Mesmerized. Yes I was.

[@Periodt_AngelSerenity]

Fun fact: This arrangement of Dionne's song "Alfie" is originally from Whitney Houston. She perform this song in this arrangement twice for an HBO Special in Washington DC in either 1996 or 1997. 😇🥰💖🎊

[@CeliniacForLife]

Not exactly the same arrangement. But yes, Whitney sang "Alfie" for a two-night HBO special in D.C. She previously sang it in 1994 as part of her concert at Radio City Music Hall.

[@user-hy8qs3su3m]

Johnny Mathis singing Alfie on his 1970 Album Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head.

[@glendastevenson8149]

I'm embarrassed to admit that I had never heard of Cynthia Erivo. I can assure you, this will not be the last time I hear that beautiful voice. I'm on a mission to learn more about Ms. Erivo. From the moment she opened her mouth, I was absolutely mesmerized. Every once in a blue moon a truly gifted and brilliant singer comes along and shares their gift. This is one such time. Bravo!!!

[@rrubio6660]

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

[@coffeecake8835]

YES!!

[@singingteachphorton47]

She gonna get it with Wicked . Mark my words !

[@rrubio6660]

@@singingteachphorton47 Fingers crossed!

[@florencedelvalle8145]

God will do it!🤞🏽🤞🏽🙏🙏👏🏽👏🏽 3:17

[@zbagz01]

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

[@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

[@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

[@veela44]

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

[@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!

[@dayram6217]

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

[@mutelarsorhougbe4606]

Precisely, precisely, precisely!!!

[@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! 🙏

[@itaylor120490]

The stage presence, the confidence, THE VOCALS, the hands gestures, and most of all THE SMILE!!!! Well fucking done!!!! My God!! This was phenomenal!! 😭😭❤️❤️

[@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.

[@carmenfields2146]

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

[@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.

[@jeribryce31]

Her beautiful, crystal clear voice and enunciation….her control….she can sing anything and make it pure magic. ❤

[@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.

[@adrianovisagie]

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

[@studiowebber2486]

And with that, Cynthia has officially placed her spell on us all. This is sheer perfection. This is peak performance. This is dedication to your craft. This is hands down one of my favorite vocal performances since Whitney Houston sang One Moment in Time at the Grammys. Its MASTERFUL. Its nuanced. It’s literally EVERYTHING you could ever ask for from the voice. Uuuugggghhhh Cynthia!!!! I’m still speechless. Nevermind the phenomenal gown. The enchanting hand movements. The camera work. The audience literally spellbound. I saw this live on TV and haven’t felt goosebumps like that in a long time. It felt like Disney Magic. I was a child again. ✨

[@ammurr50]

WOW! What a version of a song I have loved and always sung by Dionne Warwick....Cynthia has just sung the other version I would always listen to. She is such a multi-talented woman....Right on.

[@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!!💯

[@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.

[@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.

[@samapradas]

I really can’t stop watching

[@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

[@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.

[@sydvargas]

This needs to be on Spotify NEOWWWW😩😩

[@starjeongyeon.]

RIGHTTT???

[@blessedgirl4101]

Two weeks later and I still get chills and goosebumps!!

[@brandonstokes392]

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

[@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

[@MrApplebite]

I really need this version to be on Spotify! ❤❤❤

[@sondoshine]

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

[@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.

[@sharonkaysnowton]

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

[@tremaine861]

I come back here daily. This is sung so beautifully😍🤩

[@starjeongyeon.]

CYNTHIA GIRLY WE LOVE YOU BOOKIEE 🩷🩷

[@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

[@armanimarcel301]

You cannot teach that, what a voice, what a woman, wicked is gonna be insane

[@blackblake3658]

Actually, she is a classically trained RADA graduate.

[@roter13]

Actually you can. Stop sitting on your butt and actually practice and you can be just as good.

[@blackblake3658]

@@roter13 Doubt it. You claim her skill can't be taught but it can result from just practicing? Practice without training, whether via church or school choir, drama school or KZbin, is repetitive. You'll become more consistent in where you are while missing out on how far you can go. Misty Copeland and the Williams sisters were talented youngsters who practiced hard. But they soared after gaining professional training. 🤣

[@stephaniebrooks8044]

Absolutely can't teach that! Amazing!❤

[@stephaniebrooks8044]

If u could teach it,we all would do it!😅

[@BeautyLoves88]

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

[@brianbennett5136]

That shit made me cry …. ALOT

[@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!

[@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....😊❤

[@AustinNebbia]

I've watched this probably ten times in the last three days. Complete, seemingly effortless control over her instrument, and a damn masterclass in blending Broadway-caliber acting with concert-style vocal technique. Absolutely one of the most talented and most lovely living performers of our lifetimes. Just astonishing.

[@MichaelJohnson-wk8tk]

She wasn't just singing........she was telling a story. Superb!!!!!!!

[@maikzosso8314]

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

[@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.

[@user-pj1rz1cx3d]

Absolutely phenomenal performance. She should release this as a cover

[@user-hh6fp1gi1x]

I can see Burt Bacharach smiling and shaking his head in utter disbelief at the sound of her incredible voice..Just like he did when Dionne Warwick sang it.

[@SassaTrindade]

THIS NEEDS TO BE ON SPOTIFY, I'M OBSESSED!

[@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!!

[@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.

[@momojii9770]

If I could sing like this i would bust down crying in the middle of everyone one of my appearances

[@FearLessPower]

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

[@studiowebber2486]

the performance of a lifetime. i will revisit this forever

[@caden8986]

This level of talent needs to be appreciated more.

[@roter13]

Actually she is a hard worker.

[@stars_aligned]

​@@roter13 that should be appreciated more too

[@catherinepilato8209]

everything about her is so enchanting

[@snagig]

Why did that performance make me break down and SOB my heart out…I knew she was an amazing actress, but…Erivo is the Message.

[@henriettegraham9230]

Yes

[@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 😍

[@Egypt22]

Cynthia’s voice is magical❤❤❤

[@krithis618]

I literally teared up. She is beyond!

[@TheMediaSource]

I’ve watched this so many times I just can’t help but keep watching it again and again.

[@jonldn]

Why deny yourself joy! Watch it as many times as you wish and marvel…..