Wave Staff Report
LEIMERT PARK — The community said goodbye to local musical icon Barbara Morrison at a celebration of life March 26 outside the performing arts center named for the late singer who died March 16 after a long bout with diabetes.
The celebration followed a two-hour viewing at the Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship.
A large portrait of Morrison was stationed in the courtyard that many people gathered around.
As Morrison’s life revolved around music, so did the celebration of her life. Musicians played, singers sang and people danced.
Morrison’s band, the Bu Crew, an all-star group consisting of drummer Stix Hooper, Michael Session on bass, Richard Allen and Sam Hackon on trumpet, Karen Hernandez and Stuart Elster on piano, Robert Cowin on harmonica, and Victor Orlando on percussion, performed along with a number of vocalists including soul singer Sonny Green, Darynn Dean, Donte Chambers, Perry Williams and King The Cure.
U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters made a special appearance at the celebration and spoke to the audience about her memories of Morrison.
Certificates also were presented by state Sen. Steven Bradford and a representative from U.S. Rep Karen Bass’ office. Painter Muhammad Mubarak unveiled a portrait of Morrison.
Morrison is survived by her brother, Richard Morrison, two sisters; Pamela Morrison-Kersey and Armetta Morrison, along with 10 nieces and nephews.
