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Gunhild Carling: Jazz Is My Lifestyle

by Richard J Salvucci
Sometimes there is a tendency to take a performance less than seriously, especially if an artist uses a bit of self-satire as part of the act. Pianist Victor Borge had this problem--"comic virtuoso" he was called--and even trumpet player Jack Sheldon, to a degree, had to blow the roof off sometimes to remind the audience of what he could do. One senses that Gunhild Carling may get the less-than-serious treatment That is a pity, because she can play. And so ...
Continue ReadingAmber Weekes: A Lady With a Song

by Katchie Cartwright
Irving Berlin wrote Suppertime" (aka Supper Time") for As Thousands Cheer (1933), a topical revue with several stars and many musical numbers. Ethel Waters introduced it, making history as the first African American woman to star on Broadway. Berlin wrote it specifically for Waters, who also sang his lighthearted Heat Wave" in the show. Suppertime" has a more serious story, told in the voice of a woman who--while making dinner--must find a way to tell her children that ...
Continue ReadingAmber Weekes: A Lady With a Song

by Richard J Salvucci
It is difficult to know exactly what to do with a recording like this. Amber Weekes is a very good singer, and from the outset, she calls this a celebration" of Nancy Wilson, not an imitation or a recreation. You can hear Wilson's influence throughout: her articulation, occasional staccato delivery, deep sincerity and emotional heft come through in Weekes' recording. And a good recording it is, make no mistake. Anyone who enjoyed Wilson, or any good female vocalist, will enjoy ...
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Jazz Is My LifeStyle
From: Jazz Is My LifestyleBy Ray Monteiro