COMIC RICKEY SMILEY admits he can't sing a lick. And singer Fantasia isn't known as a joke teller. But expect plenty of laughs and heartfelt singing at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center on Aug. 23. The pair will co-headline a comedy/music combo show, with standup Smiley opening and the "American Idol" winner closing.
"Comedians always go first because a comic can't go after a band," Smiley said. "If people are up and dancing, it's hard to switch to comedy."
The idea of putting the two together was the brainchild of their two managers, both of whom live in Atlanta. The concept worked well in a couple of other cities, and they are pondering a national tour if their schedules can coincide.
"The chemistry between Rickey and Fantasia is amazing," said Greg Douglas, Fantasia's manager. "They love each other's work."
Fantasia, Douglas said, wasn't available for interviews because she's deep into working on her third album. But Smiley said he's excited about coming to the civic center. "I was there for Laffapalooza," he said. "It's really comfortable up there."
Smiley, a Birmingham resident, actually knows fellow Alabama native and Season 2 "Idol" winner Ruben Studdard. "We both worked at the same jeans place in the mall before our careers took off," he said.
He also hosts a syndicated morning radio show that is heard in 20 markets, including Dallas —- but not Atlanta. "You guys have a lot of competition with Steve [Harvey] and Tom [Joyner]," he noted. "But I do have a strong following in Atlanta. I think I could give them a run for their money."
> THE 411: Rickey Smiley & Fantasia (hosted by Wanda Smith). $51-$95. 8 p.m. Aug. 23. Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center. 395 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-249-6400, www.ticketmaster.com, or 404-817-8700.
About the Author
Keep Reading
The Latest
Featured
