In a way, it’s surprising that Anita Baker hasn’t had a Las Vegas residency before. The legendary R&B singer is following in the footsteps of peers like Gladys Knight and Diana Ross in setting up shop in Vegas for a five-night run at The Venetian, but while this might typically look like a test run for a more long-term gig in the future, for Baker this Vegas stand will be her first and last. The singer announced her retirement in early 2018, and these Vegas concerts are part of her farewell tour (which is also her first full tour in nearly a decade).
That’s all the more reason to catch one of Baker’s shows now, while you still can. The singer behind hits including “Sweet Love,” “Giving You the Best That I Got” and “Body and Soul” has been a commanding musical presence since her 1983 debut album The Songstress, winning eight Grammys and charting as recently as 2012, when her cover of Tyrese’s “Lately” became a hit on urban radio. She’s the kind of musical icon who’ll be right at home in a Vegas showroom, and if she’s just getting here as she decides to bow out, it’s better late than never.
The Venetian, 8 p.m. June 5 & 7-8, starting at $49.95 plus tax and fee. 702.414.9000
