Singer Valerie Simpson makes her Broadway debut as Matron Mama Morton in the iconic long-running musical Chicago
. Like many stars before her, Valerie unleashes her talent on the terrific Kander & Ebb song “When You’re Good to Mama”. Below, BroadwayBox looks back on a dozen of our favorite vocal performances of the sassy showtune.Marcia Lewis
Kicking this thing off with the Tony-winning revival’s original Mama, Marcia Lewis. She received a Tony nom in ’97 for this performance.
Queen Latifah
This Oscar-nominated performance has become a bit of the gold standard of the song.
Ruthie Henshall
The Broadway and West End star opens the new London production as Mama (after previously playing Velma & Roxie), and like Ms. Bebe before her, she shows us there’s no role in this show she can’t slay effortlessly.
Lillias White
Who serves vocals like this Tony winner?! Her voice just never quits.
Lavon Fisher-Wilson
The way this song sits in her voice is perfection. She is serving drama and comedy and vocals. Truly deceased!
Jennifer Holliday
Give it up for the Tony-winning OG Dreamgirl. Mama betta werk!
NaTasha Yvette Williams
This longtime Mama and current Waitress star made a three course meal of her big moment—and it was delicious every time.
Roz Ryan
How you gonna spotlight Mama Mortons and not include the one-and-only Mama Roz?!
Mary Testa
Tony nominee Mary Testa makes this all her own. Brassy and bold and totally Testa.
Carol Woods
Carol Woods is a legendary Mama Morton. She sings the Ambassador down every time she steps into Chicago. Next time she’s Countess of the Clink, you better make your way over.
Michelle Visage
When Drag Race’s Queen of Queens sings Chicago, she makes the list. I’d pay to see her in the B’way production. She nails it.
Tiffany Mann
We wrap this Chicago kiki with Tiffany Mann, who makes her Broadway debut in Waitress. This is her back in 2009 at Ohlook, and she already has the makings of a star. That last 30 seconds alone slayed me.
See Valerie Simpson in ‘Chicago’ at Broadway’s Ambassador Theatre.
