Hit kings build momentum in Las Vegas Strip production

A show packed with No. 1s is ready for Round 2.

We’re predicting, with solid intel, that James “Jimmy Jam” Harris and Terry Lewis are returning to Voltaire at The Venetian with “Nothing But Hits” for nine dates in August. We caught the show over the weekend, spiced by billed co-stars Ruben Studdard (“American Idol”) and Shanice Wilson (“Star Search”). But gospel great Yolanda Adams’ appearance was an unexpected treat, as she sang the 1999 hit ballad “Open My Heart,” a gorgeous moment.

And Jerome Benton turned up, and that meant a full accounting of “The Bird,” from “Purple Rain.” Jerome’s still got it, and by “it” we mean the dance moves. He has lost his mirror, somewhere, but still looks great.

The show was sold out, a production building on word of mouth and the long list of hits from Jam and Lewis.

As Jam said, there are good songs, there are bad songs, and there are hits. Good and bad are debatable. But there is no arguing a hit, especially in this show. “I Didn’t Mean to Turn You On” by Cherelle, “Human” by The Human League, and “What Have You Done for Me Lately” by Janet Jackson are all in the mix.

All of it is expertly performed, with Lewis on bass and Jam on keys and (oh baby) keytar. These two have produced legendary songs, a stack of No. 1s, but are still largely underappreciated as live performers. Get to know this show in August.

John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. Contact him at jkatsilometes@reviewjournal.com. Follow @johnnykats on X, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.