photo by steed media service

Legendary Performer

As adoring fans crowded around to soak in the presence of legendary songstress Patti LaBelle, one enthusiastic gentleman shouted out above the commotion, "Patti, you are so sexy!" Taking such an off-the-cuff compliment in stride, she graciously smiled and then decided to address the fact that even in the twilight of her career, men and women alike still frequently comment on her stunning beauty.

"I don't try to be sexy one bit," she explained to the throng of reporters and onlookers. "What you see is what you get with me. This is Patti all day, every day. I just let it all hang out, and it seems like people still love it."

People still loving her may be the understatement of the century, as evidenced by rap icons Public Enemy becoming fans themselves upon casting a glance on the still-vivacious LaBelle. The group's constant ball of energy and reality show impresario Flava Flav may have been the giddiest of the bunch. "All I can say is wow man," he exclaimed after LaBelle made her exit. "Did you see who that was? She is still hot, man. And when she opens her mouth and sings, you can't help but fall in love with her."

So from rap stars to average Joes, LaBelle still commands the respect and attention of all who encounter her - a fact that she humbly acknowledges. "I have to thank God for still being accepted the way that I am today," she says. "There are so many that were doing back in the day with me, that have fallen off the radar. But thankfully, I am still here." - dewayne rogers

View the video at www.rollingout.com/plabelle.

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