First, Destiny Child’s Kelly Rowland guest starred as Lucious Lyon’s mother (Leah) in flashback scenes on Empire.
Now, tonight’s episode, titled “Be True,” features Rowland’s performance of “Mona Lisa,” a song written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston for the Paramount Pictures film “Captain Carey, U.S.A.” in 1950. The song, originally recorded by Nat King Cole and arranged by Nelson Riddle, won an Oscar for Best Original Song. The title and lyrics refer to Leonardo da Vinci’s renaissance portrait, Mona Lisa.
Be on the listen for Kelly’s lovely contemporary rendition of this vintage ballad, produced by Ne-Yo, who also guests stars in the episode (collaborating on music with Jamal, played by Jussie Smollett ).
“Be True” airs tonight (Oct. 21) at 9PM on FOX.
Music from the episode is available now on iTunes.
Listen to both Kelly Rowland’s version and Nat King Cole’s version below.
