Cornelious “C.C.” Celestine

Cornelious “C.C” Celestine

“Music has always been my first love, bringing me places I might never have gone and giving me experiences I will forever cherish.”                                                                                          Cornelious “C.C.” Celestine

Tenor Cornelious “C.C.” Celestine was born in New Orleans amidst a family of musically inspired people. Famous French Quarter vocalist Poppa Celestine is his cousin and James “Larry” Celestine, and another tenor and a former member of the Drifters, is his brother. At eight years of age, after watching his brother perform on American Bandstand, C.C knew he wanted to perform.

He began singing choral music under the tutelage of Ms. Gladys Hill of Dillard University who didn’t allow the young singer to perform any secular music, only classics such as “They call the wind Mariah” were in his repertoire of songs. But the influences of greats such as Jackie Wilson, and Stevie Wonder steered him in the very direction he had been deprived of performing heretofore.

By 14, without Ms. Hill’s knowledge, C.C began singing solo with a group called The Counts. He belted out Marvin Gaye tunes at French Quarter clubs, then on tour with the group in Manhattan. Still young, he was forced to remain in the back between performances, while his fellow group members socialized between sets.

By 1970, Cornelious formed the Group Ardi’che with four members singing R&B at talent competitions, and opening for the Chilites, Johnny Taylor, and the O’Jays. He performed with the temptations during local engagements, while continuing to advance his classical voice skills in High School. He has performed old Negro spirituals at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center.

In 2002, after many successful years with Ardi’che and as a solo vocalist, Cornelious joined Realove contributing to the group’s soulful sound the smooth; yet crisp sounds of a seasoned balladeer.

C.C’s musical prowess allows him to move from the smooth and sultry sounds of Smokey Robinson, to the strong and soulful sounds of Jackie Wilson.

C.C.’s love and reverence for his craft ignites to the delight of his many fans the moment he steps onto the stage. He truly gives his all to insure his fans are the recipients of a riveting, moving and enjoyable performance.