Michael, Whitney, and More Reimagined…
In a powerful display of musical excellence and heartfelt tribute, Legends of Heaven made its debut to a sold-out audience, blending timeless R&B classics with visionary performance. Spearheaded by bandleader and creator Chris Pierce, the production honors legendary artists like Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and James Brown through a series of electrifying performances. At the center of the evening was headliner De’Von Williams-Jiles, whose passionate tribute to Michael Jackson earned a standing ovation and left the audience in awe. Backed by a divine vision and unmatched talent, the evening was more than a concert—it was a celebration of legacy, soul, and the power of music to unite generations.
In an exclusive interview with the nation’s premier faith-based and professional newspaper for winners, Anointed News Journal, these talented creatives give us a glimpse into how this special event unfolded and what’s to come in the future.
Our conversation with Producer, Chris Pierce:
Collins:
Who is Chris Pierce?
Pierce:
Chris Pierce is a bandleader, director, and drummer. I’ve been playing in the Tri-State area for close to 40 years. I’ve been with E.B.E. as a drummer for 20 years and at my church for 25 years, so I’ve mostly been around as a drummer—always in the background, handling administrative duties. I’m also a visionary. This is probably my fourth band. My other two bands, the Main Event Band and the Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band, are probably the two I’m most known for—those tributes to Stevie Wonder and Earth, Wind & Fire. Then came the pandemic, and that’s when I received the vision for this.
Collins:
And tell us about Legends of Heaven and what motivated you to come out with Legends of Heaven.
Pierce:
Legends of Heaven is honestly a gift from God. It was a vision He gave me. I was sitting during the pandemic, thinking through some ideas, and I heard some Michael Jackson songs. I thought, “That would be cool.” Then God began to open doors and expand my mind. Next thing I knew, I was adding Prince. Then James Brown. The more I thought about it, the more the vision expanded. It got to a point where it became so big, I realized I needed help—and time.
So I’ve had this vision since 2020, maybe 2021, and I thank God for the provision along with the vision. It opened doors for musicians and everyone who joined the project. We started with the Michael Jackson segment. Next, we’ll add James Brown, then Prince, and eventually it will be one complete show.
The second version of Legends of Heaven will feature Whitney Houston, which you heard part of tonight, as well as Luther Vandross, Teddy Pendergrass, and Barry White. I have some amazing vocalists who will be featured in the coming year. We’ll finish this current project by the end of the year and begin building the next version of Legends of Heaven in the year ahead.
Collins:
All right. Tonight you opened with Whitney Houston, and Michael Jackson was the headliner. When you see the audience’s response, how does it feel to pay tribute to icons who are no longer with us?
Pierce:
It’s two things—validating and inspiring. This was our first show, and we managed to fill a room with over 250 people, plus the ones we had to turn away. That’s validating.
It also shows that the tribute industry, respectfully, is still primarily dominated by rock musicians. That’s why I created this company, The Ultimate Tribute Experience. It’s a tribute to our fallen R&B heroes, because at the time, no one was really doing R&B tributes.
We’re working to bring R&B back—to put it in the arena it deserves. Our music is as authentically American as it gets, and it should be selling out theaters just like any other genre.
Collins:
Tell us the name of the young lady who performed as Whitney Houston tonight, and what makes her so special?
Pierce:
Her name is Ladyy Defined. What makes her so special is that she’s a powerhouse. There’s a phrase often used in the industry—“the little lady with the big voice”—and that perfectly describes her. She’s a monster vocalist. Extremely gifted and very efficient at her craft.
Collins:
And your headliner for tonight, De’Von Williams-Jiles—tell us your thoughts on him and what makes him special.
Pierce:
I literally cannot say enough about De’Von. He’s one of those people where, if you believe in divine intervention, that’s exactly what happened. We don’t run in the same circles. We were introduced by a professional contact—his grandfather and I—and I first saw De’Von perform on video.
I know Michael Jackson’s music, so I assumed he was lip-syncing. I thought, “I can’t work with that—I need a live singer.” Then he performed some songs that aren’t on the album, and I realized, “Oh no—he’s really singing. For real.”
He’s incredibly talented. As for his outlook, the sky’s the limit. As a business owner, I’ve probably seen 40 or 50 different Michael Jackson tribute shows, many of them multiple times. He’s the best-sounding Michael I’ve encountered.
And as I explained to him earlier—with all due respect to others—some performers dress up well as Michael Jackson with wigs, makeup, and everything else. But De’Von can just stand flat-footed and sing.
He sounds better than almost everyone I’ve heard. I say “almost” just to avoid sounding biased—but I am. He’s the best there is to be honest. I truly believe he’s going to do great things.
We’re going to put as much support behind him as possible to ensure his success. And again, this is just the beginning. I can’t wait for the rest of the world to experience who he is.
Collins:
How can people get in touch with you?
Pierce:
We have a Facebook page called The Ultimate Tribute Experience. You can also email me at [email protected] (which stands for The Ultimate Tribute Experience).
Over the fall, we’ll be finalizing our media package and launching our website. But until then, feel free to reach out to me via email or Facebook.
Our conversation with Artist, De’Von Williams-Jiles:
Collins:
De’Von, we’ve talked many times before, but tonight is all about you. Who is De’Von Williams-Jiles?
Williams-Jiles:
I’m an entertainer, singer, and songwriter. I love performing Michael Jackson’s work—it’s a lot of fun and really cool.
Collins:
I first met you a few years ago at community events, where you were singing. Before we get into Michael Jackson, let me say—you’re very talented. What makes De’Von Williams-Jiles’ voice special?
Williams-Jiles:
It’s all about the music. It doesn’t matter who the artist is—if a song touches my heart and soul, I give it everything I’ve got. It’s just the passion I feel for the sound and power of music.
Collins:
Tonight’s event was a tribute called Legends of Heaven. Whitney Houston opened the show, and you headlined with a tribute to Michael Jackson. What was it like to see such a large audience come out to support you?
Williams-Jiles:
I was shocked. I got a little anxious, but I knew once I hit the stage, all of that would go away. When I’m up there, it feels like home. I don’t let fear take over. It’s so much fun—it’s actually addicting.
Collins:
At the end of the show, the audience gave you a standing ovation. How did it feel to receive that kind of response, knowing you had just paid tribute to one of your greatest musical inspirations?
Williams-Jiles:
Honestly, it felt amazing. But whenever I’m on stage, I never want to leave. Even during rehearsals, I could go on for hours. Performing brings me joy. That standing ovation was wonderful, but I just wish I could’ve stayed up there forever.
Collins:
It’s been said that many performers have taken on the role of Michael Jackson—from Broadway to Hollywood. Some may have the look with wigs and makeup, but when it comes to singing live—pound for pound—no one has the voice like De’Von Williams-Jiles. What do you say to that?
Williams-Jiles:
That’s truly an honor. I’m grateful that people feel and believe that. It means a lot.
Collins:
At community events, you’ve sometimes held back a bit. The vocals are there, but maybe the stages weren’t big enough for your dancing and full performance. You’ve clearly perfected the moves and style. What’s your motivation to be as great as you can be?
Williams-Jiles:
Back then, I had a lot of insecurities and things that held me back. I wanted to stay true to myself while also trying to embody Michael—and that didn’t always work. But eventually, I told myself: just be free, do what you’ve always done, and let go of everything holding you back. Now it’s pure freedom. Pure bliss. When I’m on stage, I let go, live in the moment, and focus on delivering the performance.
Collins:
We know Michael Jackson has influenced your look, style, and sound—but there’s so much more to De’Von Williams-Jiles. You have original songs you’ve written and a desire to share your own voice. What’s next for you?
Williams-Jiles:
I plan to stay busy—continuing to refine my craft while also working on my own music. I want to keep creating and producing. Hopefully, I’ll get into a studio soon and release music under my own name. All while continuing to honor the King—the one I’m blessed to have watched and looked up to.
Collins:
For those who want to follow your journey, how can they stay connected?
Williams-Jiles:
You can follow me on Facebook at “De’Von Williams-Jiles” and on Instagram at “_devon3”. I’m also working on a TikTok and other platforms, so stay tuned. More is coming soon.
Collins:
We can’t talk about your success without mentioning someone who has worked hard to support you and help get you in front of people—and that’s your grandmother, Yvette Jiles. Tell us about her and the tribute you gave her.
Williams-Jiles:
From the day I was born, my grandmother has been my best friend—the love of my life. She’ll hold that place forever. She believes in me even when I don’t believe in myself. She’s always there during tough times, a great listener—though she talks a lot too! But that’s my grandmother, and I love her deeply.
Collins:
The Anointed News Journal reaches over 180,000 readers weekly. In conclusion, what would you like to say to our audience?
Williams-Jiles:
I love you all. Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come.
Conclusion:
Legends of Heaven not only honored the icons of R&B but introduced a new generation of talent destined to carry their legacy forward. With Chris Pierce’s visionary leadership and De’Von Williams-Jiles’ unforgettable performance, the tribute experience struck a powerful emotional chord. As the show continues to grow, audiences can look forward to more nights where the music of the past inspires the passion of the present.
By Chris Collins
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