In November 2009, The RRazz Room owners-- Robert Kotonly and Rory Paull -- interviewed me for a new position: Publicist for Jazz and R&B. Following our interview was opening night of Ashford & Simpson, and the owners invited me to stay for the performance. I felt like a kid in a candy store; I was amazed by not only the intimacy of the room, but also its classiness.
As I watched Robert Kotonly escort Nick and Val on stage, I had no doubt in my mind that what was to follow would be a musical journey down memory lane. Nick and Val shared stories of how they met and auditioned for Barry Gordy of Motown, and the amazing blessings that manifest along the way. So many songs; so little time. So little precious time.
March 29 - April 3, 2011, Ashford & Simpson returned to The RRazz Room for seven SOLD OUT performances. Nikki Thomas was my guest for opening night. For several months before opening night, Nikki and I spoke about Ashford & Simpson during the KBLX Sunday Brunch live broadcast at Restaurant Anzu inside Hotel Nikko. To us single ladies, Ashford & Simpson were the ultimate in relationships: one grounded in music and love for life.
Last night, just before I left boot camp, I checked my messages. Nikki Thomas sent me a text message, "Omg! Nick Ashford! Did u hear?" I knew what that meant, and I immediately called Robert Kotonly and Rory Paull, who are good friends with Nick and Val. Ashford & Simpson were scheduled to return to The RRazz Room May 8 - 13, 2012. We are broken-hearted.
After speaking with Robert, I sat in my car and just cried. While my encounters with Nick and Val were short, I cried for love, and all that it endures. Energy never dies....
RIP Nickolas Ashford (May 4, 1942 – August 22, 2011)
Photo Credit: Pat Johnson @ The RRazz Room March 29, 2011
