Debra Hampton is an award-winning performer who, over the years, has worked with some of the biggest selling recording artists of all time. She has toured the world and has a repertoire steeped in the “Great American Songbook”, including the Classics of Motown, R&B, unlikely gems, contemporary standards all finished in the glow of Debra’s own exquisite original compositions. The Agenda caught up with the formidable chanteuse as she prepares for her Big Birthday Bash on Sunday!
You are having your Birthday bash on Sunday, how exciting.
I’m beyond excited. I’ve spent the last year of my life creating my new showplace, Hollywood Events, so it could be ready for my 38th birthday bash on May 1. (Ok, my 48th – whatever!)
Tell us more about the grand opening of Hollywood Events.
It will be an evening of great entertainment with people I’ve worked with and admired, like Mickey Havens, Nicky Adams, Joe Posa (as Joan Rivers), David McBride and others, along with wonderful food and surprises.
I’m proud to be opening Hollywood Events. It’s an elegant event hall; the décor is antique mixed with a contemporary style. We have two beautiful bars, a stage, nice lighting and sound system, dance room and seating and a private dressing room.
A lot of love went into this place; I’d love for you to stop by and check it out. It’s a great place for hosting parties,
seminars, wedding or fundraisers. I’m also offering it to other entertainers that have a following so they may also put on their own events. We can also accommodate you with hotel rooms.
How long have you been performing in Wilton Manors?
I’ve been performing in this wonderful community for over 6 years. I’ve gone from Hamburger Mary’s, where I lost the title of “Hamburger Mary” to a drag queen (even though they say I’m a drag queen in a female body), to Dudes, where I performed with lots of almost naked guys, to Chardees, The Mix, Galanga, Scandals, Monkey Business and now at the Alibi every Tuesday, and MoJo on Wednesdays.
What do you enjoy most about performing?
I love the variety of music that I am able to perform in front of the most appreciative audiences imaginable in South Florida. I love seeing my audience react to songs arranged in new and creative ways by my long-time producer Eddie Montilla, who works with stars like Queen Latifah, Little Wayne and Usher.
What is the benefit with working within the gay community?
The joy of acceptance and affection. I think the gay audiences can relate to me and vice versa, because there is admiration for our unique styles … plus, I get to be “NASTY” at times, knowing it is ok with my audience.
You have a line of personal greetings cards. What made you come up with the idea? How are they doing?
My greeting cards are the result of my love of the process of song writing. I love the collaboration with others in producing songs that directly cover different occasions … from break up to make up, from birthdays to condolences, my line of greeting cards combines original songs on a CD inserted into a greeting card. The cards are geared toward all relationships. Channel 7 news featured them on their Styles section.
Are there any disadvantages to working within the community? 
None that I’ve encountered, other than not being “hit on” too often (just kidding … I’m an old married lady with a great hubby who even allowed me to donate all of our wedding loot to Tuesday’s Angels.)
When you look back over your career here, what has been the highlight?
Having my sweet mommy live to see me perform for large audiences. (She passed recently and I miss her sweet face … whenever I sing “I’m Tired” from Blazing Saddles I channel that Fraulein, my mother).
Now, what’s the biggest cringe moment?
When a rubber outfit I was wearing slipped below my nips and no one told me and I performed for a half hour not knowing … well you can imagine the rest …
What social influences do you think affect your popularity and how do you think your show helps the community.
Having lived in the 60′s and right up through Lady Gaga. I have been blessed to be able to sing so many different types of music without sounding dated. People seem to compare me with Bette Midler and I am flattered. I have been influenced by so many entertainers and the issues they confronted in their lives. I think my benefit shows like Stonewall and “Broward Bares It” have been most rewarding. Volunteering is inspiring to keep the spirit going until there is full equality for everyone.
Tell Agenda readers a bit more about your long awaited CD “Night Secrets”.
“Night Secrets” is a sexy collection of tunes that set a mood. The CD is romantic and mellow with foreplay, during play and after-play as a theme. I love turning men on … all men!
So what’s next for Debra?
Lots of events at my new show place and a brand new show called “Boobalicious”.
Debra’s Birthday Bash May 1st at 7:30pm Hollywood Events 101 North Ocean Drive, Suite 132, Hollywood FL (954) 929-9494
