Judy Roberts and the Universal Monsters

The Diva-Monic Files 2: Jazz Legend, Judy Roberts and the Universal Monsters. By Brian Kirst

(“The Diva-Monic Files” is a semi-regular feature that proves that even the most feminine icons of the musical theater, serious drama and the smoky passageways of music clubs have a little bit ‘o horror in ’em!)

“The way you walked was thorny, through no fault of your own, but as the rain enters the soil, the river enters the sea, so tears run to a predestined end. Your suffering is over, Bela my son. Now you will find peace.”

To hear respected musical genius Judy Roberts whisper the above in your ear, using the perfect Russian accented tones of Maria Ouspenskaya’s Gypsy Woman, is a thrill beyond belief for anyone who is both a Chicago music lover and classic horror movie fan. But those familiar with eclectic tastes of the prodigiously talented Roberts probably would not be surprised by that scare strewn vocal revelation in the least.

For while she may consider Cary Grant “perfect”, she also can acknowledge the greatness of Boris Karloff in the same breath! “He was a great actor. And, in ‘The Mummy’, so sexy! But only in that role,” and here she takes a humorous beat, “I think it was the bandages.”

And while she may be best known for cooing the crafty tones of her Japanese hit single, “My Attorney, Bernie”, surrounded by soft candlelight and respectful audiences, she can also talk a mean Evelyn Ankers and find the gothic obscurities in music as well. “Have you heard (musical partner) Paul (Marinaro) do ‘Beautiful Love’ from The Mummy? It’s amazing.” (Note: Victor Young’s classic song is heard briefly in the 1932 Karloff masterpiece.)

So, despite the lofty accomplishments – setting the jazz fusion world on fire in the 70’s, a lengthy stay at the Hotel Intercontinental beginning in the 80’s and the recent discovery of new talent like Marinaro, please always remember this’ the divine Judy Roberts is really a Universal monster girl at heart!

Check out Judy Roberts’ dates in Chicago and Arizona at www.judyroberts.com.

Also, if in Chicago, head out to a Paul Marinaro gig and request The Mummy song. Performance dates available at www.paulmarinaro.com.