’70s rock-soul-funk’ trio Labelle is ready for the spotlight again, this time the divas are ready to rock fans and newcomers with the likes of Lenny Kravitz. “I really didn’t know if we still had the vocal power,” LaBelle says. “But after we did the first song, I knew we were still some hot mamas.” Best-known for the 1974 No. 1 R&B and pop hit “Lady Marmalade,” Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash return October 21 with their long-awaited reunion album, “Back to Now” (Verve). With 10 new songs on the album, “Back To Now” features Cole Porter, Wyclef Jean (who is featured on the lead single “Roll Out”) and production by Lenny Kravitz. Labelle also re-united with Gamble & Huff, who signed the trio to their Philadelphia International label in the ’80s. Adding a contemporary vibe without taking away from the funkiness that longtime fans remember, all three women co-wrote tracks on teh album featuring Patti Labelle’s soaring sass, Nona Hendryx’s rock-edged stance and Sara Dash’s earthy accents. “Labelle was a group that set your mind, spirit, body and soul free,” Hendryx says of the group’s legacy. “We’re 60 years young and still willing to go to the edge.”
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