Originally Posted by
westgrandboulevard
No, I personally don't remember Martha ever rushing through her songs.
I think some of the other Motown artists who used medleys, and/or performed songs at a faster tempo than their recordings, did so because they had a greater number of hits for which they were known. They were expected to perform these in addition to most recent recordings, all of which needed to fit within the constraints of their allotted time on stage.
If anything, I think Martha now would benefit from a few medleys, to include lesser performed hits/songs from her own repertoire, as the set list in her act does not seem to change very much, only the running order.
That said, occasionally someone will call out a song title, and Martha will give an impromptu 'a cappella' performance of it - 'One Way Out', for example....or 'Honey Chile' with Lois and Delphine, which is not so often performed with the band now.
One title which has now become a signature song for Martha on stage in the UK is 'No One There', and which invariably receives a great ovation.
Also, Martha usually meets and greets her fans and friends after a performance - usually with Lois and Delphine - and takes time with anyone who wishes to say 'Hi'....generally not leaving until she has exchanged greetings, signed memorabilia and had photos taken with everyone who has been patiently waiting, and who has then left the theatre.
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