Will Downing to Bring Mother's Day Celebration to NJPAC

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) presents an evening with Will Downing. Will Downing, one of the smoothest, most sophisticated voices in contemporary rhythm-and-blues, brings a special Mother's Day Celebration to NJPAC.

This GRAMMY-nominated singer and songwriter is known for his flawless, emotive, honey-smooth baritone, as well as impeccable phrasing and vocal agility that seamlessly blends R&B with jazz. Downing's musical sensibility has kept him at the top for well over 25 years now, and his long reign as a master of romantic ballads has earned him the title of "Prince of Sophisticated Soul."

"Will Downing is one of the most extraordinary vocalists in R&B and jazz," says Soul Train. "His deep voice (is) smooth and serene, hitting those high and low notes without any hesitation ... after 28 years in the music industry, he still knows how to mesmerize a crowd."

On his latest album, 2016's Black Pearls, Downing lends his Signature Sound to a hand-picked collection of hits originally performed by some of the greatest female voices in R&B. The new LP includes Downing's distinctive reinvention of chart-topping songs first made famous by Chaka Khan ("Everlasting Love"), Brenda Russell ("Get Here"), Deniece Williams ("Black Butterfly"), Randy Crawford ("Street Life"), Phyllis Hyman ("Meet Me on the Moon"), and more.

The concert is set for Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 7:30 PM & Sunday, May 14, 2017 at 7:00 PM at Victoria Theater. Get your tickets now at NJPAC.org or 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States and is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey - where Great Performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state's and the world's best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors (including over 1.5 million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC for more information.