Show business can lead to lifelong friendships. In the case of Jerry Sharell and Randall Phillips their friendship began when they appeared together in a show at the Roxy that ran for three years. Jerry was 10 and Randall a few years older. Jerry went on to make a guest appearance onMerv Griffin, NBC’s Fantasy, and national telethons. As a teen he appeared in the Disney/MGM musical TV series Kids Incorporated. He went on to get several recording contracts where he honed his skills as a singer.
For most of his adult life, however, he has been a publicist for Barry Manilow, Leeza Gibbons and others. He returned to cabaret only in 2009, but you would never know it – his gig at Sterling’s Upstairs at Vitello’s was entirely relaxed and professional. Besides, he is one hell of a singer; Great presence, fabulous voice – a real crooner who really caresses his songs.
Randall Phillips on the other had has had a whole different life. She began as a child model (she is a stunner), and went on to appear in Annie on Broadway, understudying and playing Annie on several occasions. After she met Jerry at the Roxy, they became performance partners and sang at various events around LA including a performance in Bob Hope’s home and for the Chamber of Commerce. She went on to appear in several musicals, also making an appearance on Merv Griffin, and continued her singing and recording career until college where her interest turned to politics. She eventually became the White House Correspondent forCBN News on the Family Channel. She remains a 15-year veteran of the prestigious Gridiron Club in D.C. and sings for the President yearly. She returned to Southern California and reunited with her old chum Jerry to present this act at Sterling’s.
The act itself consisted of solos for each: “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” "Exactly Like You,” "Woman on the Moon" for Randall; “Almost Like Being in Love/This Can’t Be Love,” Somewhere Down The Road/This Time,” and "Being Alive” for Jerry. Together they entertained us with several medleys including one of childhood songs (which were very sweet), so'called "silly love songs," and an Alan and Marylyn Bergman medley. They ended with a mash-up of “Happy Days Are Here Again” and ”Get Happy.” The encore was “Whenever I Call You Friend.” This was a joyous show and their love for each other and their mutual respect and musicianship made it one of the more memorable cabaret acts. The duo performed at Sterling’s Upstairs at Vitello’s on Oct. 30.
Article comments