The beloved Macedonian event, the 29th Zlatna Bubamara (Golden Ladybug) of Popularity, is expanding its musical horizons this year with the performance of a multi-decade soul legend.
Talented and intriguing, American vocalist Martha High (1945) is considered one of the most valuable women in show business. Dubbed the Goddess of Soul and known for her 32-year collaboration with the Godfather of Soul James Brown, Martha High built two careers – her own solo career and the career of James Brown’s first backing vocalist.
High performed at iconic concerts that were truly turning points in music, from the 1968 Boston Garden concert to the series of European concerts with Lynn Collins, titled “James Brown’s Funky Divas Tour” in 2005.
From her beginnings in 1967, when she accompanied James Brown as a member of the band The Jewels, Martha High remained his backing vocalist for the next 32 years. And when The Jewels broke up. In During that time, she also recorded solo albums such as “Sal Soul” in 1979, produced by James Brown. Her career also included the creation of several soul groups.
Martha High’s biography explains why she has been called the most valuable lady in show business.
She has also performed with some of the most famous musicians, such as Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Temptation, Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, B.B. King, Mary J. Blige, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael Jackson, The Police and many others.
High’s powerful vocals still sound wonderful today and she is the signatories to an extensive musical legacy, which, in addition to soul and funk, also includes many blues and jazz melodies.
“I am looking forward to performing in front of the Macedonian audience,” said High before her performance at this year’s 29th Zlatna Bubamara (Golden Ladybug) of Popularity, where she will be presented with a lifetime achievement award.
