Photos by Andy Argyrakis

Ever since she was discovered by “Shout” mega-stars Tears For Fears while singing at the Hyatt Regency in Kansas City circa the 1980s, Oleta Adams became one of the most in-demand session singers and solo artists.

Besides appearing on the British band’s “The Seeds Of Love” album and tour, she supported the legendary likes of Phil Collins, Luther Vandross and Michael Bolton, in addition to duets alongside Al Jarreau, David Sanborn, Shirley Ceasar and Toots Thielmans.

Throughout it all, her multi-platinum career seamlessly switched between pop, R&B jazz and gospel, simultaneously gracing major movie soundtracks such as “Corrina, Corrina,” “Sleeping With The Enemy,” “Jason’s Lyric” and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back.”

However, the time has come for the 71-year-old singer/songwriter to bid a fond farewell to the road, but not before selling out the classy City Winery for an overview of 1990’s major label debut “Circle Of One,” through newer, entirely independent offerings.

Adams sounded exceptional behind the mic and keyboard as she put a soulful spin on “I’ve Got To Sing My Song,” “All The Love,” “Something Inside So Strong” and many others, each backed by a three-piece band anchored by drummer and husband John Cushon.

The chilling ballad “Another Day Has Come And Gone,” originally written in the wake of the Virginia Tech shooting, was preceded by a plea for more love and respect in the world, while “Do I Move You” moved just as compellingly towards the blues.

Nevertheless, Adams radiated positivity, hope and healing across nearly two hours of music and conversation, including a heartwarming acoustic set that featured Van Morrison’s “Crazy Love,” “Safe And Sound” and an instrumental edition of “Pure Imagination” from “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory.”

The headliner and company resumed their plugged-in positions for “You’ve Got To Give Me Room,” “Circle Of One,” and of course, the Brenda Russell-penned “Get Here,” which Adams personally popularized and turned into a Gulf War anthem, followed by an encore of “Everything Must Change” as a glorious way to wave goodbye.

For additional information on Oleta Adams, visit OletaAdams.com.

Upcoming concert highlights at City Winery include Soul Brunch (Jul. 20); Maui The Writer (Jul. 22); Malina Moye (Jul. 23); Vinyasa & Vino (Jul. 25); Kevin McDonald (Jul. 25); Cousin Tiera (Jul. 26); Kids Brunch (Jul. 27); Marquise Knox (Jul. 27); Samples & Samples (Jul. 28); Demola (Jul. 28); Sons Of The Silent Age (Jul. 29); Sam Mitchem (Jul. 30); AJ Ghent & His Singing Guitar (Jul. 31); Mark Allen Felton (Aug. 1); DLHughley (Aug. 2); Family Brunch (Aug. 3); DL Hughley (Aug. 3); Beatles Brunch (Aug. 4); DL Hughley (Aug. 4); The Dumb Dads (Aug. 5); RJ Mitchell & Gumbo Music (Aug. 6); Ler & Lionel (Aug. 7); Chrisette Michele (Aug. 8-9); Soul Brunch (Aug. 10); Jason Ladanye (Aug. 10); Big Daddy Kane (Aug. 11); Switch (Aug. 12); Afro Dead (Aug. 13); Shelia E. And The E-Train (Aug. 15-16); Meagan McNeal (Aug. 17); Danny Boy (Aug. 18) and Nathan Chester (Aug. 19). For additional details, visit CityWinery.com/Chicago.

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