Dustin Fitzharris

Stars come and go, but Diana Ross remains a force. After a sold-out residency in February at the Venetian in Las Vegas, she returns to NYC on Monday 24 for five shows at New York City Center. With timeless songs like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Upside Down,” the diva promises to take audiences through countless memories. In a rare and exclusive interview, Ross reflects on her love for the city that never sleeps. Photograph: Courtesy Randee St. Nicolas   You’re performing in New York at City Center. What do you want audiences to take away from your shows?What I receive each night that I perform is the joy of being able to do what I am very passionate about. It feels as if it's my purpose. I really have such a great time with all this, especially when I am in a place of fun and good vibrations. I think the audience also feels the same. I know when people come out to see a show they have their own personal and special memories of the songs and the music. They come to have a great time and that is my intention. Even though you are from Detroit, New York has adopted you as one of their own. What does New York mean to you? I love New York! Remember the song "New York State of Mind?" New York is an energy. It's a classy sophistication. It's alive 24 seven. It's magical. I think it's true that the city never sleeps. You can be out at 4 a.m. and the streets are filled with people going somewhere and doing things. Fantastic! I love being in that energy. I also have great mem