aaamusic | On 10, Jun 2011

Singing sensations Angelique Kidjo, Dianne Reeves and Lizz Wright perform together in a passionate new production honouring the great women of jazz, r&b, gospel and the blues.

Following the huge success of 2009’s tribute to Nina Simone, the friendship and shared spirit among the three brilliantly talented stars inspired a new show dedicated to the songs of their most admired musical heroines. This celebration embodies the spirits and continues the legacies of the recently departed Miriam Makeba, Abbey Lincoln, and Odetta, along with other great women of music from Billie Holiday to Lauryn Hill as well as showcasing original songs by Kidjo, Reeves and Wright.

The all-star Sing The Truth ensemble features Geri Allen on piano and keyboards, music director Terri Lyne Carrington on drums, James Genus on bass, Munyungo Jackson on percussion and Romero Lubambo on guitars.

Lizz Wright is one of today’s most celebrated and accomplished singer-songwriters. A deeply expressive singer, the warmth and resonance of her voice is matched by the intimacy and authority of her personal musical statements. Though known for topping the jazz charts, Wright is far from a traditional jazz singer. Born in a small rural town in Georgia to a minister father and a mother who sang at his services, her roots are firmly in gospel. The recipient of nonstop critical acclaim, she is an effortlessly magnetic performer delivering persuasive vocal performances in understated jazz, R&B and gospel settings.

African-born songstress Angelique Kidjo’s embodies the spirit of Africa and for over 20 years she has shown that African music is universal. Like Miriam Makeba was before her, Kidjo is the continents’ most internationally celebrated female musical exponents. Blending the West African traditions of her childhood with elements of American R&B, funk and jazz as well as influences from Europe and Latin America, she has spread her rhythmic afro-funk fusion to the four corners of the globe. With her fun-loving personality, commitment to advocacy, her on-stage charisma and her totally unique voice, Ms Kidjo is certainly one of the most popular artists on the current world scene.

Recognized as one of jazz’s pre-eminent vocalists, Dianne Reeves is one of the most significant singers in jazz. While her singing is steeped in tradition, her rhythmic virtuosity and improvisational ease are breathtaking. Clearly born of jazz and drawing upon a world of influences, Reeves versatility in song interpretation is unrivalled. With a voice to both soar and seduce, her songs are infectious, uplifting and exuberantly delivered. As a result of her unique R&B and jazz stylings, Reeves has since captured a huge following and tremendous critical acclaim throughout the world.

Produced by the Barbican in association with Serious

Tickets £20 – £35
Box Office: 0845 120 7550 www.barbican.org.uk/blaze
Barbican Centre Silk, Street London EC2Y 8DS