Liza Minnelli’s legacy has inspired countless artists, from Freddie Mercury to Lady Gaga, showcasing her profound impact on performance and showmanship.
Liza Minnelli, a multi-talented powerhouse renowned for her acting, singing, and dancing, has made an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, inspiring numerous performers across generations. With a career that spans decades on both Hollywood and Broadway stages, Minnelli’s influence is a topic of discussion among artists from various backgrounds.
One of her most ardent admirers was Freddie Mercury, the late frontman of the legendary rock band Queen. Mercury held a profound appreciation for Minnelli, particularly citing her performance in “Cabaret” (1972) as a significant influence on his artistry. He praised her ability to deliver songs with dynamic energy and stage presence, stating, “The way she delivers her songs—the sheer energy. The way the lights enhance every movement of the show. I think you can see similarities in the excitement and energy of a Queen show.” This mutual admiration culminated in 1992 when Minnelli honored Mercury with a performance of “We Are the Champions” during The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert for AIDS Awareness at Wembley Stadium, an event attended by approximately 70,000 people.
From the world of music and classical standards, Michael Feinstein, a renowned pianist and singer dedicated to preserving the Great American Songbook, also acknowledges Minnelli’s significant influence on his career. Introduced to her by lyricist Ira Gershwin, Feinstein describes their relationship as one of deep friendship. He notes her exceptional emotional connection to music and firm grasp of showmanship, stating, “The stage is her safety zone. She is most comfortable there.” Minnelli’s mentorship and artistry have left a lasting impression on Feinstein, shaping his own performances and understanding of music.
Pop star Madonna further demonstrates Minnelli’s impact through her artistic choices, particularly in her 1986 music video for “Open Your Heart,” which draws inspiration from Minnelli’s character Sally Bowles in “Cabaret.” The visual aesthetics, choreography, and thematic elements mirror the influence of Minnelli’s work. Madonna took her homage to the next level during her Blonde Ambition World Tour, where she performed “Keep It Together” in a style reminiscent of the famed collaboration between Minnelli and Bob Fosse.
In the realm of contemporary performance, Billy Stritch has maintained a long and influential partnership with Minnelli. Initially introduced in 1991, Stritch rose to the role of Minnelli’s music director, contributing to significant projects such as “Liza Stepping Out at Radio City Music Hall” and the one-woman show “Minnelli on Minnelli: Live at the Palace.” Stritch commends her captivating presence, asserting, “She is just so captivating. Liza at 50% is 150% of most performers.”
Lady Gaga stands as another example of an artist who has publicly acknowledged Minnelli’s influence. The singer has often drawn parallels between her reimagining of artistry and Minnelli’s fearless approach to performance. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Gaga stated, “I’m fascinated by lizards. They can shed their skin and keep going, just like artists have to do. Maybe that’s why I love Liza so much—she’s fearless in reinvention, and that’s the key to longevity.” Their bond was further highlighted during the 2022 Academy Awards, where they presented the Best Picture award together—a moment exemplifying their mutual respect.
Finally, Darren Criss, an actor and singer known for his role in “Glee,” considers Minnelli a close friend and source of inspiration. His admiration sparked during childhood after watching “Cabaret.” Reflecting on his experience meeting her, Criss recounted, “She’s grabbing everybody and going, ‘This was great, this is great. This is the gang now; this is the gang.’ And when she left, I was like, I’m in the gang now. It was amazing.” This connection illustrates Minnelli’s ability to transcend generational divides, leaving her mark on even the newest wave of entertainers.
Liza Minnelli’s legacy remains deeply woven into the fabric of the entertainment world. Her remarkable ability to engage with audiences through song and dance, alongside her trailblazing presence on stage, continues to serve as a benchmark for excellence for performers across the globe. Her artistry and influence will undoubtedly resonate with future generations, reminding them of the power of showmanship and the joy of performance.
Source: Noah Wire Services
