Legendary singer-songwriter Oleta Adams has spent over five decades captivating audiences with her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and impassioned performances. As she prepares for her final concert in the nation's capital at The Birchmere, Adams opens up about her remarkable career, the decision to retire, and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

A Lifetime of Touching Lives Through Music

Reflecting on a Remarkable Journey

Oleta Adams' career has been nothing short of extraordinary. For over 53 years, she has graced stages around the world, enchanting audiences with her unique blend of soul, gospel, and jazz. As she reflects on her journey, Adams acknowledges the challenges that have come with the evolving demands of the music industry, as well as personal considerations. "After 53 years (of doing this), normally people retire after 30 years or 25. I put in 53," she told WTOP. "Today everything is so complicated. The cost of travel, paying for everyone, baggage fees … it adds up. My husband and I decided we want to do other things while we can still move around."

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

At 71 years old, Adams has achieved a level of success that many can only dream of. She has not only built a loyal fan base but has also created music that has helped her listeners through pivotal moments in their lives. Her soulful ballads, like "Get Here" and "I Just Had to Hear Your Voice," have left an indelible mark on generations of fans. "I've had people tell me, 'Thank you so much for helping me through med school,' or 'Thank you for being there for us when my father died,'" Adams reflected. "That's what I wanted to do. I never said to God, 'I want to be a big star.' I just wanted to sing to the people."

Embracing Authenticity Over Fame

For Adams, the accolades and achievements were secondary to the lives her music touched. In a world where fame is often chased and celebrated, Adams' approach was refreshingly grounded. "I kind of feel like I missed the stardom, because I never felt like a celebrity, ever," she said. "I was there, but I missed the show. But that's OK, because it kept my feet on the ground." This unwavering focus on her artistic vision and purpose has defined her career, as exemplified by her early song "I've Got to Sing My Song," an anthem about her resolve to follow her passion for music despite her preacher father's reservations.

Leaving a Positive Mark on the World

As Adams approaches retirement, the significance of leaving a lasting legacy has become even more meaningful. Though she and her husband, drummer John Cushon, have no children, Adams sees her music as the legacy she passes on to others. "The goal is to leave a positive mark. To make a difference in our world by touching someone else's life," she explained. "I feel like I'm part of everyone who has enjoyed that music that God gave me. It lives on through them."

Embracing the Challenges of Aging

Throughout her career, Adams has been known for her technical proficiency, but as she listens to her body of work now, she is struck by a more purely enjoyable experience. "I used to be so critical of me, (but) I listen now and I'm just so blown away," she said. "And I cry … I had no idea it was that grand. It was so easy once." However, the physical and emotional demands of decades of performing have taken a toll, and Adams has become increasingly anxious about her voice not sounding the way she wants it to. "I have so much anxiety each time I know I have to sing again because it doesn't sound the way I want," she confided. "I didn't want to get to a place where people would go, 'Girl, you need to let it go.'"

A Bittersweet Farewell at The Birchmere

For her final show in the D.C. area, Adams is returning to The Birchmere, a venue that holds a special place in her heart. "We just have a wonderful time there," Adams remarked. "I'm so fond of that place. It's like a combination between a picnic and a church … the three o'clock service!" Though she is ready to step away from the stage, Adams exudes a sense of peace and deep gratitude for the journey. Her career highlights include unforgettable collaborations and performances with icons like Phil Collins and orchestras worldwide, but it's the quieter, personal connections with fans that she treasures most. "When you tell me there's a young lady lying down in a gurney after the show, terminally ill, but her dream was to see Oleta Adams — that becomes (a) moment I remember," she shared. "It taught me how important what I do really is."

Passing the Torch to the Next Generation

Adams' impact extends beyond her own career, as she has become an inspiration and mentor for aspiring artists. She often advises them to appreciate the wisdom of those who came before, and she received an honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music in 1995, an honor she clearly still cherishes. "I pray that young people will value those things that are said to them by their elders," Adams said. "Prepare for the success. Know who you are. Be versatile, but even with the versatility, stick to who you are. Do it because you love the music, be kind, and practice, practice, practice."

A New Chapter of Simplicity and Service

As Adams takes her final bow, she is embracing retirement as a new beginning, a chance to explore, live simply, and give back to her local community in Kansas City, where she and her husband are already involved in their church. "We want to serve people in our community and it's easier to not be worried about a show," she said. "It's time to just live more simply more simply, to love more, (and) to help where you are." With the same authenticity and grace that has defined her career, Adams leaves the stage, her legacy – one of resilience, compassion, and the healing power of music – continuing to resonate long after the final note fades.