Mitch Holthus (Copy)
Iconic American Songstress & Kansas City Treasure
With Marilyn Maye returning to the stage at Kansas City’s historic Folly Theater this Friday, we’re re-releasing our unforgettable conversation with one of the city’s most beloved musical treasures.
Marilyn Maye is an American Songbook and showtune legend whose extraordinary career includes a record 76 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. A true cabaret icon, she has spent decades captivating audiences around the world while proudly carrying Kansas City’s musical legacy with her wherever she performs.
In this conversation, Marilyn reflects on her remarkable career, her deep connection to Kansas City’s jazz tradition, and what it means to represent her hometown on stages across the country and around the world. Named Kansas Citian of the Year in 2012, Marilyn continues to perform, teach, and inspire generations of artists.
At 98 years young, she’s still “kicking it,” still commanding the stage, and still showing why she has earned a reputation as one of the great voices of cabaret.
As Marilyn prepares to take the stage at the Folly, revisit the story, career and Kansas City legacy of this unforgettable American songstress on There’s Just Something About Kansas City.
