My heart is so sad right now.

Andre Braugher and his wife, Ami Brabson, were what I call family members at Ashford & Simpson’s Sugar Bar, the New York City restaurant/club where I sing and host regularly. Andre divided his time between work in Hollywood and New York and he and Ami always stopped in when Andre was off. In fact, there were seats at Sugar Bar known as theirs.

Andre was genteel, kind, supportive, purpose-driven, and he believed in “excellence!” as he always put it – the exclamation point evident in his voice. Ami, an actress and singer in her own right, had several shows at Sugar Bar. Andre was the dutiful husband who schlepped Ami’s costumes and props up /tender regard for Ami. 

Andre was hands on. When he wanted something for Ami, he made sure all t’s were crossed and all i’s were dotted. I remember meeting with Ami in the early planning stages of the last party that Andre threw for her. Andre was on the West Coast working – but wanted to know what plans we had “come up with.” At one point there was a telephone call and we shared Ami’s ideas this way and through pictures that she took. On the night of her soirée, she serenaded her guests as a pianist accompanied her. Andre was beaming with pride. It was an AMAZING evening as all of their friends showed up. 

Andre always always made time to talk shop with me. I would ask about a particular scene and how he brought to life particular lines in the script. He loved that I asked about that “beat” and acknowledged Howard University, my alma mater, as a fine institution.

When it was time to leave, Andre got the car and Ami and I were like school girls, talking about how great her night was. Not even 15 minutes later, I had to call Ami and let her know she forgot something – and as tired as Andre was, he trooped back in with a cheerful heart and got his dear Ami’s bag.

I am sad this evening – sad because Andre opened doors for so many. He created a role. He became the character. He was never one to just say lines. He was intentional in his choices and gave a master class each time out the gate. He was deep.

My sincerest condolences to dear Ami the boys and the entire family.

Thank you for paving the way,

Rest In Heaven.

Damara Lynn Greene is a New York City-based bandleader, singer, dancer and actress known worldwide. She first met Andre Braugher and Ami Brabson on their first visit to Ashford and Simpson’s Sugar Bar, the Manhattan venue established by late singer/songwriter Nickolas Ashford and run by Ashford’s wife and musical partner, Valerie Simpson. Greene hosts and sings there and toured with Ashford and Simpson. She also has an 11-piece band.