Dress by Redemption
Hair: Chuck Amos
Makeup: Deney Adam

Vanessa Williams, the living legend is about to set the music world on fire with an incredible new album—her first in a decade-and-a-half—masterfully created with old friends filling the album with amazing songs. Yes, please!

It’s not all that surprising that Vanessa Williams, one of our country’s entertainment national treasures, has launched a new recording label, Mellian Music—assuming full creative control—as part of Warner Music Group’s independent label division. It’s also not necessarily shocking that Williams is releasing her first album in 15 years (the first single, the soon-to-be, monster-hit banger “Legs (Keep Dancing)” drops April 26 with the rest of the album out later this year). But the fact that she’s working with a lot of the crew she made some of her most iconic hits with, is, well, everything. Vanessa Williams is back in a major way and this time, she’s calling the shots.

“What a joy it is to be making new music behind the mic again with old friends,” says the 11-time Grammy nominee. “There’s a certain comfort in creating new works in the studio while reminiscing about how so many years in this business have brought successes, excitement, and lasting memories. Always moving forward is what drives me. Every challenge is exciting. And more new music to share with my fans is the fuel that lights my fire.”

Speaking of fire, that’s precisely the emoji you better have on hand when you share “Legs (Keep Dancing)” on your social media platforms. Mike Ruiz, who photographed the superstar for this feature, is her longtime creative collaborator and has spearheaded most of the creative visuals surrounding the album including her video for the first single, which he directed. Also, Ruiz introduced Williams to Bill Coleman, the hit-maker genius behind Peace Bisquit, who produced most of the head-exploding remixes for “Legs.”

If past is prologue, this album should be another smash for Williams, who has delivered more than 200 million digital streams and eight studio albums, including a remarkable six R.I.A.A.-certified platinum or gold singles. Williams’ latest work is being executive produced by Mellian Music, Mod Squad (who’s CEO Tony Prendatt says “the album will be for all genres”) and Christopher Todd Hall.

Songwriter Kipper Jones couldn’t agree more about the forthcoming album’s sure-fire success. “You can call it a comeback, a full circle moment or just plain serendipity, but I call it a blessing to be creating more history with the iconic force of nature that is Vanessa Williams,” he says.

If the return to the music charts wasn’t enough excitement for the indefatigable triple-threat, Williams is currently in rehearsals in London’s West End for the musical theater debut of The Devil Wears Prada portraying the iconic Runway fashion magazine editor, Miranda Priestley (portrayed by Meryl Streep in the box office smash film) set to premiere in the fall. Did I mention Sir Elton John is writing the score with lyrics by Shania Taub?

The question must be asked: Is Vanessa Williams, at 61, just now hitting her stride? She’s never been more beautiful, more passionate, more seasoned and more ready to take it all on. But this time, she’s in charge. Big Boss energy becomes her. And how.

Intro by Richard Pérez-Feria | Photography by Mike Ruiz | Interview by Renata Salazar

What was growing up in New York like? How did your childhood influence your perspective and interest in the entertainment industry?
Both of my parents were New Yorkers and were music teachers, my mom from Buffalo and father from Long Island. They met in college in Fredonia, NY. I was born in New York City and I went to college in Syracuse. Growing up in New York meant my whole life often involved going to Broadway theater. I received a music education and had a clear path to a future on Broadway. So, the Broadway goal and majoring in musical theater were a dream come true.

How was it growing up in the industry and gaining fame at a young age?
I don't consider myself growing up in the industry at a young age because I had a normal and supportive childhood. I didn't reach fame until I won Miss America at age 20. Now that I am 61 and looking back that age is actually young. That perspective has changed the older I get. In 1983, times were different, but I knew I would eventually have an opportunity to show my talents and my perseverance through music, acting, and dance. That is what I have done over the past 40 years. Many doubted my talent and intellect because I was crowned as a beauty queen, supposedly negating intellect and talent. So, my biggest challenge was to be seen and respected. That has taken the most amount of time in my career but obviously I have survived and thrived.

How has your experience with fame changed up until now?
Experiencing fame is not as important as receiving respect for integrity, choices, grace, and perseverance. Fame is a result of being popular in the public, but the true satisfaction comes from being recognized for your body of work, which I can happily say now, I can look back and be proud of my contributions with the people I have been able to work with in music, theater, productions, movies, TV, and recordings. I can look back at a career of success and collaborations with so many people at the top of their game.

Do you think you’ve had to prove yourself at the beginning of your career and defy stereotypes after being crowned Miss America?
If you got a Miss in front of your name and labeled a beauty queen, that negates talent and intellect. That's the challenge that you need to overcome.

Describe the era of your life studying at Syracuse, leading up to your crowning as Miss America?
Both of my parents were music teachers, I had a younger brother, and we grew up in a small town in Westchester county. The era we are looking at 1981 at Syracuse when I was a Freshman. It was a wonderful time where bands would perform like The Police, The Rolling Stones, Genesis, Phil Collins, Peter Tosh, and Hall & Oates. Those were the types of concerts available while I attended Syracuse. Syracuse Stage was the repertory theater and complex that classes were held in and was a joy, Aaron Sorkin graduated while I was there. It was a carefree time for me, and I look back at what my children have to go through with social media and not having the privacy and independence that I had back at that time. We did not have that kind of surveillance, and that immediate worldwide recognition. Social media is a little bit of a burden for young people at the same age in college, and looking back it was quite freeing.

Cape and Boots by Michael Kors
Hat by Worth & Worth by Orlando Palacios
Boots and Belt by Michael Kors
Ring by Laruicci
Dress by Cucculelli Shaheen
Luna Earrings by Nicole Amato
Hair: Niko Weddle
Makeup: Lijha Stewart

How has the entertainment industry’s lifestyle and culture changed since you started working in it? How have you changed with it?
We are talking about 40 years ago, so certainly culture and technology have changed. And certainly, movements have helped change and pushed the needle in terms of particular women's representation in front of the camera, behind the camera, on and off stage. There are so many avenues available that women have been able to be triumphed in, it's taken years. I would say it's the most market change that I have noticed over the years in the industry. Having directors, writers, producers who are women and help change culture and stories and broaden art in general and being positive and formidable.

Do you have a favorite project that brings you nostalgia?
There are so many because there are so many firsts in my career. I would say the opening night of “Kiss of the Spider Woman” in 1994 was a dream come true, not only following the amazing Chita Rivera in the role that she had created but getting a chance to make it my own and seeing a childhood dream come true as I saw my name in lights at the Broadway theater with my family and friends in the orchestra section cheering me on.

Singing the national anthem in 1996 was an incredible and out-of-body experience. So, I sang at the Academy Awards ceremony in 1996 when I performed “Colors of the Wind,” which was nominated for Best Song, and ended up winning a Grammy and Golden Globe for the Best Song.

Getting a chance not only to have a number 1 but a number 1 for weeks—"Save The Best for Last”― and getting nominated for my first Grammy (out of 11) and getting nominated for a Tony and then an Emmy for “Ugly Betty.” What incredible experiences.

Moschino Toggle Jacket by Moschino
Moschino Love Lock Pump by Moschino
Shorts by Ramy Brook
Ring by Laruicci
Waves Ring and Waves Earrings by Nicole Amato
Tights by Falke
Hair: Niko Weddle
Makeup: Lijha Stewart

How has your perspective on success changed throughout your career, both personally and professionally?
I think when you are young, success is always for me to be recognized and respected and that's what I worked on so much and tried to be competitive. Dealing with rejection and being seen as whom I eventually be; these are important. Now looking back at my career, my success gives me gratification that I had all these amazing opportunities that I was bold enough to accept. When you get an opportunity it is easy to say no because of fear. But when you need to grow and stretch your talent and boundaries, taking those risks sometimes lead to failure but most of the time to somewhere you never could imagine. I am happy that I took risks in my career and they paid off. I am happy with my career and I don't care what other people think about it. That is what it solace is; you are happy with your life and what you contributed to your career.

Is there someone you look up to when it comes to their artistry?
There are many, I would probably say that an overall worship would be Lena Horne, but I got a chance to meet her in 1984 and burst into tears. She was at a dinner and we got to meet face-to-face. She embodied activism, beauty, talent, grace, grit, and perseverance. Lena Horne surely is number 1.

Jumpsuit by The Blonds
Hair: Chuck Amos
Makeup: Deney Adam
Set Design: Jasin Cadic

Having a broad range of talents, what is your favorite channel or representation of art/media to be a part of?
I get asked this a lot, what do I like best, acting, dancing, TV, singing, Broadway, or movies, I like working with great people and material, that is what keeps me alive. The actual medium is not what is most important, but it's the teamwork and material. I have had the opportunity with Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine on Broadway, Arnold Schwarzenegger on a huge multi- million-dollar blockbuster movie. “Ugly Betty” was one of my most favorite experiences of all time and I got to work with incredible people with whom I am still friends with today and are a talented group of people. I love it all.

I got the chance to record with incredible producers and writers behind the mic. I got a recording with Pavarotti and sang Italian next to him. There is no one answer, I love it all when working with incredible people. The most critical part is listening and being in the moment. So, you can be there to make magic in creating a scene, you have to be engaged and that is how magic is made when you see it on stage and when you see it on film. Being present is the key, that is the most dynamic thing.

What is the most crucial part of a non-set or on-stage dynamic with other actors?
The most critical part is listening and being in the moment. So, you can be there to make magic in creating a scene, you have to be engaged and that is how magic is made when you see it on stage and when you see it on film. Being present is the key, that is the most dynamic thing.

What have you learned the most from being a mother, and what is it like becoming a mother in Hollywood/the entertainment industry in general?
Well, I made a choice to leave Hollywood when my two eldest daughters were just about to start schooling. It was at the time of the riots after the Rodney King incident and that was horrible and I wanted to raise my kids to live near my parents while they were still teaching music. They ended up teaching them music classes, piano and instruments and they were part of their lives. Then having two additional kids after that, my kids always came first, any event or appearance, i would always check my kids calendar. I would either not do something if I was going to be away for too long or go back in time to make sure to attend their events, recitals. I don't regret it at all and some may have said I missed out on opportunities because I had kids so young but it has enriched my life and I would not have it any other way. My kids are very important to me.

Dress by Michael Costello
Luna Earrings by Nicole Amato
Ring by Laruicci
Hair: Niko Weddle
Makeup: Lijha Stewart

What is the most vital advice you have given to your kids?
You would probably have to ask them. I don't know what has brought them the most impact from what I have said. But watching my career shows how hard it is to be successful and how hard this career is while enjoying your life. I am always there if they need me. And, now with FaceTime it is so much easier especially with my grandkids. I am glad that I can be there for my kids.

Tell us about your philanthropy journey and how you started and the issues you feel passionate about supporting.
I wish I had a ton of money to give to as many organizations and people as I could, but the time that I give to the people when asked is when I think it makes the most impact in my life. I have been so lucky to work with different organizations through contacts and friendships I have. Most recently I have been on the board with the Roundabout Theater Company, where we are working EDI and equity, diversity and inclusion committee which has been impactful. I am also one of the founding members of Black Theatre United, which supports inclusion and diversity and makes incredible changes. Our biggest accomplishment over the past three years has been the new deal on Broadway, which guarantees inclusion and diversity onstage and backstage and throughout the Broadway system.

I am on the board of the Sheen Center for Thought and Culture, which shows artwork and film and discussion with music from different faiths and different topics. I have worked on Special Olympics International for years with special thanks to Maria and Tim Shriver. I have attended many global games and been an ambassador with children with disabilities. I have worked with the Equal Rights and AIDS initiative. I really love to mentor. I have mentored many young talents, not only within theater, but in aspects of my career and stages in life. I am always available for the questions that really feed my soul and is a one-on-one connection that will always be there through their lives and I love to see what they do with their lives after I work with them.

What is it like performing with the National Symphony Orchestra, and how does your artistic approach differ on stage versus on set?
I have always loved my career because I get to do so many different things. I am recording a new album coming out in early 2024 with dance songs that will make you move and dance and reflect on where I am at this point in my life. My music allows me to do concert dates with a symphony orchestra, with jazz combos, arenas, concert halls and smooth jazz cruises. I do a variety of different musical gigs. I just finished working on a workshop for a show that is coming to Broadway in a year and half and that's promising. I can't say any more about that.

I am a producer on “A Wonderful World,” the story of Louis Armstrong, which is a musical I am producing (the same thing is repeated here twice) . We are about to open in New Orleans, go to Chicago, and bring it to Broadway. I am working on another play, “Ungodly Pursuit,” which will find its way soon on a theatrical stage and is an incredible story that I am producing and starring in. I have a couple of TV projects that I am producing too. A lot of things are cooking. I love to wear many hats, not only performing and producing but also being creative. I am happy to still be in the game.

Vanessa, your latest project delves into dance music. What inspired this genre shift, and how has it challenged or complemented your artistic journey?
I always loved dance music. My ballads seem to be the ones with the most longevity but I was happy to get back into the dance genre. The theme for me at age 61 years old, I still feel vital and I have much to offer. I wanted to portray that mindset through dance and a good time. I thought it was the perfect time to come with more dance music.

Could you share some insights into the creative process behind your new dance music? Any specific influences or experiences that shaped the sound and direction of the project?
The bottom line with this new project, I am so happy to be able to be recording again. My last album was “The Real Thing” in 2009. It’s been a struggle to get a new record out due to label issues and record company issues and labels dissolving and people I have worked with not continuing in their positions. So to finally get a chance to work on something that I know I can control to be released is refreshing. I am really excited to have new music for people to sing along to, dance to and be inspired by and to show that it’s never over. Tina Turner was a prime example with “What’s Love Got To Do With It” and before that she couldn’t get a record deal. People perceived her as to be too old nd she broke that mold into a million pieces and blew people away. It shows that if you have the goods, there is always time. I am happy to have another time in the spotlight to do what I do and bring one and joy and fun to my audience that continues to be loyal and continues to grow.

As a seasoned artist with a diverse repertoire, what unique elements do you bring to the dance music scene, and how do you see yourself evolving within this genre?
Well, I am fortunate enough to be able to sing, dance, and act on Broadway, TV, and film and pop music. I have been lucky to be on tour. My first tour was in 1997 with Luther Vandross and my band has toured with me since. I have a great opportunity to do my craft over and over again. Dance music is not my one-off. It’s not just a myopic focus for me. Dance music is a part of my whole repertoire. It’s wonderful to have new music on the dance floor besides “The Right Stuff” and “Work To Do,” another dance hit I had. Honestly, watching RuPaul’s Drag Race and only using a few songs of mine was definitely a motivating force to get more dance music out so I can have way more drag queens dance and bring my music to life. That was my inspiration. I am lucky to have an audience that is ready for dance music and knows the genre well. I dance with my friends; both onstage and the album are a perfect addition to my well-rounded career that has not stopped.

Collaborations often play a significant role in the music industry. How do collaborations enhance the overall creative experience?
Collaboration is a wonderful part of the creative process in music. I love being in the studio, talking about ideas and seeing where they come to life, with the lyrics and getting behind the microphone and suggestions and seeing it all mold together. This particular project that I am in the middle of completing involved Kipper Jones and one of the greats, Loris Holland. He has done so much work with Mariah Carey and the Fugees, but there is mid-tempo, working with Teddy Riley as well. It is always wonderful when people have their ideas and think about what I would like and respond to. Most exciting part of the process is listening to the demo tapes of people submitting and producers saying “Ah, I love this,” “it’s not right,” or I got an idea to make this work for me. That’s a great part of the studio working with collaborators who are intrigued and not seeking a money grab. I love people who want to collaborate and are into the idea about (and inspired by) what they can do with me as a vocalist and have experience in the Studio.

Social Media.
Instagram: @vanessawilliamsofficial

CREW CREDITS:
Talent: Vanessa Williams
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer + Producer: Mike Ruiz
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Hair: Chuck Amos
Hair: Niko Weddle at Judy Casey using L’Oreal Matrix
Makeup: Lijha Stewart
Makeup: Deney Adam
Set Design: Jasin Cadic
Fashion Market Assistant: Skylar Elizabeth
Fashion Stylist Interns: Richelle Hodson, Yanesza Rowe
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview Questions by Renata Salazar, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Location: Love Studios NYC