Photos by Andy Argyrakis

Just one note is all it takes to ever identify the iconic and unforgettable voice of Patti LaBelle, who is often imitated but has no chance of ever being duplicated thanks to a soaring soprano and distinctively dramatic delivery.

In honor of her status as an octogenarian and more than six-and-a-half decades in show business, the R&B, pop and gospel great turned chef/all-around entrepreneur is bringing the “Let Patti Cook” continuation of the ongoing “8065” Tour to historic halls such as Waukegan’s relatively intimate Genesee Theatre, which was packed to the rafters after recently slaying much larger places like the United Center and Ravinia.

Nevertheless, the double Grammy Award-winner and “Godmother Of Soul” since the early 1960s brought that whole lavish production, gigantic band and four backing vocalists for an 100-minute overview of exactly how she’s lasted so long.

Clad in black and accented by ruffles, LaBelle was radiant while belting out “When You’ve Been Blessed (Feels Like Heaven)” and “Love, Need And Want You,” demonstrating a stunning vocal range for 82-years-young or otherwise.

The headliner reminded everyone she was the first to record “If You Asked Me To” prior to Celine Dion, who Miss Patti still saluted as an immensely talented sister, followed by the ’90s bounce of “The Right Kinda Lover,” the “Beverly Hills Cop” beats of “Stir It Up” and the ballad “On My Own,” originally cut alongside Michael McDonald.

From before becoming a solo superstar, there was the Labelle trio’s “Isn’t It A Shame” on the way to fellow personal standouts “New Attitude,” “Somebody Loves You Baby (You Know Who It Is)” and “When You Talk About Love.”

In between, LaBelle passed out flowers, kicked off her high heels, sprayed perfume, signed someone’s book, had a few short conversations with appreciators and even indulged a guy fawning over the fact he learned the alphabet when she guest starred on “Sesame Street.”

Following a brief break for the supporting cast to shine, the living legend changed into a red suit and really let loose on “If Only You Knew,” then took the diverse audience to church for Elevation Worship’s “Trust In God” and “You Are My Friend” as many famous faces who’ve passed away flashed on the screen above.

A few lucky fans got a chance to join her on stage and took turns comically doing karaoke to the massive “Lady Marmalade,” though LaBelle gracefully stitched it all together and further left everyone floored with a glorious rendition of “Over The Rainbow,” proving yet again why there will never be another Patti LaBelle.

For additional information on Patti LaBelle, visit PattiLaBelle.com.

Upcoming shows at the Genesee Theatre include Sara Evans (Nov. 19); Black Violin (Nov. 20); Mannheim Steamroller (Dec. 5); Tyler Henry (Dec. 6); Gavin DeGraw (Dec. 11); Eve 6, Fastball, Blessid Union Of Souls and The Click Five (Dec. 12); Dancenter North: “The Magic Of The Nutcracker” (Dec. 17-18); The Temptations (Jan. 8); The Music Of Billy Joel And Elton John Starring Michael Cavanaugh (Jan. 14); Rob Thomas (Jan. 23); Warrant and Great White (Feb. 6); Air Supply (Feb. 7); You’ve Still Got A Friend (Feb. 19) and “Sesame Street” Live! (Feb. 28). For additional details, visit GeneseeTheatre.com.

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