The Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea series has officially ignited its 2025 season with a grand flourish, and at the epicenter of this spectacular kickoff was none other than the living legend herself, the incomparable Marilyn Maye. In a special Independence Weekend celebration held at the intimate and acoustically superb LTV Studios in East Hampton, Maye, the veritable “Cabaret Queen,” delivered a performance that transcended mere entertainment, serving as a masterclass in vocal artistry, storytelling, and an enduring connection to the golden age of American music.
The show, aptly titled “Meet Marvelous Marilyn Maye,” was a testament to the enduring power of classic American song, delivered with the unique blend of sass, sophistication, and raw talent that only Maye can command. The evening was particularly poignant as Maye paid a heartfelt tribute to the centenary of Johnny Carson’s birth, the iconic host of “The Tonight Show.” It was on Carson’s legendary couch that Maye made history, performing live an astonishing 76 times—a record for any singer. Carson himself, captivated by her undeniable magnetism and unparalleled vocal prowess, famously declared after one of her show-stopping appearances, “And that, young singers, is the way it’s done.” This remarkable statistic alone speaks volumes about Maye’s singular talent and her significant role in American popular culture. Her ability to effortlessly traverse genres, from jazz standards to Broadway showstoppers, all while infusing each lyric with profound meaning and personal connection, has made her a timeless icon. She doesn’t just sing songs; she inhabits them, inviting the audience into the narrative with every nuanced phrase and dynamic shift.
Marilyn Maye’s career is a sprawling tapestry woven with eight decades of dedication to the art of song and performance. Born in 1928, her journey began as a child prodigy in Kansas, winning amateur contests and performing on local radio. Her big break arrived in the 1960s when she was discovered by Steve Allen, leading to multiple appearances on his national television show. This exposure ultimately paved the way for her historic run on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” solidifying her as a national treasure. During this period, she signed with RCA Victor, releasing seven albums and 34 singles, including the very first hit recordings of “Cabaret” and “Step to the Rear” long before their respective Broadway debuts. Her album “The Lamp is Low,” recorded with a full orchestra, is considered a classic among cognoscenti. Perhaps one of her most significant accolades came when the Arts Council of the Smithsonian Institution selected her recording of “Too Late Now” for inclusion in their album of the 110 Best American Compositions of the Twentieth Century, cementing her place in the annals of American music history. Beyond her recording and television career, Maye has graced symphony stages across the United States, bringing her unique interpretations to orchestras like the Florida Symphony and The Philly Pops. She has also excelled in musical theater, starring in acclaimed productions of “Can-Can,” “Mame,” “Hello, Dolly!,” and “Follies.” Even now, at 96 years young, Maye continues to perform to sold-out houses, captivate audiences with her masterclasses, and serve as a beacon for aspiring vocalists, proving that true artistry only ripens with age.
Following her dazzling performance at LTV Studios, Maye participated in a captivating Q&A session with the quick-witted and beloved television personality, Joy Behar, offering attendees a rare glimpse into the insights and anecdotes of a true show business veteran. A further surprise, demonstrating her widespread admiration, was the presentation of a citation to Marilyn from NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright, a testament to her enduring cultural impact and artistic excellence.
The “Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea” series, masterfully produced by Donna Rubin and Josh Gladstone, LTV’s Creative Director, has truly reimagined the performance landscape of the East End. It ingeniously transforms a working television studio into an atmospheric cabaret venue, complete with intimate café-style seating, state-of-the-art lighting, impeccable acoustics, and the gleaming presence of a Baby Grand piano. This innovative setting provides an unparalleled “front-row seat” experience, allowing audiences to connect intimately with legendary music interpreted by today’s finest performers.
The kickoff event drew a distinguished array of attendees, including Bill Boggs, Howard & Eleanor Morgan, Lynn & Bruce Surry, Bruce Michael and Clif de Raita, Dale Novick, Julie Monroid, and the beloved philanthropic queen, Jean Shafiroff. This illustrious gathering underscored the series’ growing reputation as a must-attend cultural event.
Following this triumphant opening, the “Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea” series will continue to enchant audiences through August 30th with a dazzling lineup of world-class performers. The roster includes Broadway luminaries such as Lee Roy Reams and Liz Callaway, sophisticated cabaret duos like Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano, the dynamic KT Sullivan and Mark Nadler, and the internationally acclaimed sensations, Moipei, among others. Full season details are readily available online at the LTV Studios website.
Now celebrating its third successful season, “Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea” has rapidly become one of the most celebrated live music series on the East End. Its unique blend of intimate ambiance and an impeccably curated talent roster draws both devoted theatergoers and curious newcomers, establishing it as the new go-to destination for sophisticated live music in the Hamptons. Whether one is rolling off the beach or seeking an evening of profound musical artistry, this series promises an unforgettable experience.
LTV Studios, the visionary host of this series, is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, and contributions are deductible as defined by IRS regulations, further emphasizing its commitment to supporting the arts and community. For more information, including the full schedule and ticket purchases, visit http://www.ltveh.org.
The success of such a high-caliber event, bringing a legend like Marilyn Maye to the Hamptons, is also a testament to the exceptional work of Lawlor Media Group. Under the astute leadership of Norah Lawlor, this premier public relations firm consistently demonstrates its unparalleled ability to generate significant buzz and ensure the widest possible reach for its clients. Their strategic press outreach and meticulous attention to detail were instrumental in drawing the notable attendees and widespread attention that marked this extraordinary kickoff. Lawlor Media Group’s expertise in amplifying cultural events of this magnitude further cements their reputation as a powerhouse in the public relations landscape, ensuring that the magic created on stage translates into widespread recognition and appreciation.
The “Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea” season has begun with a resounding triumph, led by the enduring brilliance of Marilyn Maye. Her performance was not just a show; it was a living piece of history, a vibrant testament to the enduring power of the American Songbook, and a dazzling promise of the exceptional artistry yet to come this summer in East Hampton.
