Street News Review

Gifted Singer Angela’s The Most Gorgeous Gal In Giving

Question: If a modern day Dr. Frankenstein combined brains, beauty, a sexy six pack abdomen and a powerful vocal range, who would he create? Answer: Singer and grass roots philanthropist Angela McKenzie. Ten short months ago, Angela set out to pursue her dream of using her musical gift as a vehicle to raise awareness about poverty and hunger in New York City. Throughout 2001, she staged a series of musical food drives to benefit “City Harvest, Inc.,” a local food rescue mission. The last event of the year took place in the East Village on November 3rd at The Continental, a club that’s home to the likes of Rock icons Debbie Harry and Iggy Pop.

City Harvest’s mission is near and dear to McKenzie because not so long ago, when she came to New York City from Toronto, Canada, high on her list of struggles were hunger and borderline poverty. Fortunately, with help from friends, family and the kindness of strangers, she overcame those hurdles pretty quickly.

The November 3rd show, opened with calf length dreadlock dub poet Anton, who’s conscious rhymes were accompanied by a four piece reggae band, including a cello for a touch of classical. Then wearing athletic gear, an unpretentious and energetic McKenzie took to the stage and she made the remark “Apart from the obvious devastation war brings, an even greater devastation befalls our environment.” Next, she performed a soulful and goose bump giving rendition of Tracy Chapman’s “Rape of the World.” Her performance heated up when she removed her track top, to reveal an enviable washboard stomach and tiny waistline. Actually, it’s hard to judge if her vocals are powered by her abdomen or vice versa but more importantly, we need to know who her personal trainer is. Among other originals, McKenzie sang her rock ‘n soul influenced ballads “Good Intentions” and “Dreamer’s Eyes” which had a curiously Disney-esque feel to it. Then in a shameless demonstration of her wide vocal range, she put an operatic twist on the intro of the Eagles classic “Hotel California.” McKenzie is a big personality in a small body. She’s completely at ease with her audience, she keeps her band firmly under control and where there’s rock ‘n roll, there’s sex appeal. Somebody give this “diva” a record deal please.

Anyway, at the end of the night “City Harvest” collected 100 pounds of food and it’s safe to say all had a damn good time.

For the 411 on McKenzie, including her affiliation with the United Nations Development Programme and other reputable non-profits, log into www.angelamckenzie.com

Street News, January 2002