By Magda Katz***Music royalty took the stage when Debbie Boone appeared at 54 Below. Boone’s remarkable musical lineage is well known: she is the daughter of singer Pat Boone, the daughter-in-law of legendary vocalist Rosemary Clooney, the granddaughter of Red Foley of the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the cousin of actor George Clooney. Yet throughout the evening she proved that her artistry stands firmly on its own.
The show was expertly directed by Richard Jay-Alexander, whose elegant staging allowed Boone’s warmth and storytelling to shine. She was supported by a superb band featuring music director Quinn Johnson, David Finke (bass), Carmen Intorre Jr. (drums), David Mann (saxophone) and Tony Padlock (trumpet).
From the moment Boone stepped onstage, her warmth radiated throughout the room. She opened with “Tomorrow” from the musical Annie by Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, setting an optimistic tone for the evening. One of the most touching moments came when Boone spoke lovingly about her mother-in-law, Rosemary Clooney. Taking out her phone, she shared a rare recording of Clooney singing Irving Berlin’s “Blue Skies” a capella. The intimate recording had been made for Clooney’s grandson—Boone’s son—and hearing it in that setting created a deeply personal connection with the audience.
Boone also revealed her country roots with a heartfelt rendition of “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” by Hank Williams, reminding the audience of the musical heritage she carries. A particularly magical moment came with her spirited pairing of “I Love Being Here with You” and “Fever,” a stylish nod to the great Peggy Lee. Boone’s phrasing and charm brought both songs vividly to life. Of course, the audience eagerly awaited the song that made her a household name: Boone closed the evening with her signature hit “You Light Up My Life,” written by Joe Brooks. The performance brought the evening to a glowing and nostalgic conclusion.
It was a night filled with warmth, musical history and genuine connection—an evening that reminded the audience why Debbie Boone remains such a beloved performer.
