It’s always been about the music for Niki Haris. And Madonna’s number-one background singer is finally making a name for herself outside of the Queen of Pop’s domain, starring as the Queen of Egypt in the musical Sheba earlier this year, promoting three albums, touring extensively and raising her daughter, Jordan.

To everyone who is dismayed by her decision to not sing backup for Madonna this year, Haris says on her website: “remember, things that aren’t changing are dying! I celebrate life now and I am grateful for all things old and new.”

Her newest dance compilation, including the disco hits “Total Love” and “Love Will Be Around”, and the pop anthems “Spanish Harlem” and “Ain’t That the Way”, firmly plants her microphone front and center.

Amid a summer touring the Pride festival circuit and playing various jazz venues, Haris has been working on a jazz album that is nearing completion, and released a gospel album, In the Beginning, earlier this year.

The chanteuse comes to San Diego this Sunday, Oct. 24, as part of Bourbon Street’s 17th anniversary weekend celebration. This will be her second time performing at the bar.

“She was met with great reviews her last time here and the word is out that she is back in town,” said Bourbon Street’s general manager, Michael Mack.

Bourbon Street’s new owners, Michael and Bill Weiss, are making a few small, gradual changes to the bar (like adding a martini happy hour serving 12 new flavors) but are also keeping the old Bourbon Street traditional crowd favorites, such as Fabulous Bingo with Nicole.

“The idea is to make what was successful and what the crowd has come to love about Bourbon Street even better,” Mack said.

The traditional Sunday barbecue, which is now called the “Beef and Drag Barbecue”, has an expanded menu serving higher quality food, and the new owners have upgraded the music equipment, DJ booth and lights with the intention of drawing some of the most popular area DJs, like Brian Pfeifer and Billy Carroll.

“It is the beginning of a new era at Bourbon Street!” Mack said. “Mike and Billy bring with them several years of experience operating bars and nightclubs in Philadelphia. The pair have continued [previous owners] Tom and Bob’s generous support of the community by making several generous donations to numerous gay and lesbian groups in their first two months here. Look for many new traditions and enhanced old traditions to grow and continue.”

Bourbon Street’s anniversary weekend kicks off Thursday, Oct. 21, with Janice Edwards at 8:00 p.m. On Friday, Oct. 22, it’s Lady’s Night from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., followed by Lesley and Laura performing live in the front bar and DJ Kenny spinning in the Stable. Ashley Matte performs live on Saturday, Oct. 23, at 8:00 p.m. in the front bar, and DJ Dawna Montel from L.A. spins in the Stable at 9:00 p.m. On Sunday, Oct. 23, there will be a brunch catered by The Abbey Café from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., then DJ Taj spins at the afternoon T-dance starting at 4:00 p.m. and Niki Haris performs at 7:00 p.m. Call (619) 291-4043 for more information.