April is Jazz Appreciation Month, more commonly referred to as JAM, which was created by the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History in 2001, with the intention to encourage people to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary heritage and history of jazz.
I grew up with music always playing in the house, especially while prepping in the kitchen. With our New York background, jazz tended to be something my parents gravitated towards and was often a popular choice during dinner parties. I especially loved hearing Ella Fitzgerald, and would sing along to her many famous ballads. I even paid tribute to Ms. Fitzgerald, when serenading my husband with Love is Here to Stay at our wedding reception.
Jane Monheit and Samara Joy are two other female vocalists that I adore. Both are New York natives, who also were influenced by Ella, and love to sing many of the early-20th-century American jazz standards.
I have been listening to Jane Monheit, an international Billboard #1 pop/jazz vocalist, for over 20 years and have had the privilege to see her perform several times in Washington D.C. Her newest album Come What May was released last March, which lived up to the 5 year wait. Ms. Monheit is about to kick off her latest tour and will be singing at the Birdland in NYC from April 26-30.
Samara Joy, winner of the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, is much newer to the scene, but her voice is timeless and developed beyond her years. Her self titled debut album Samara Joy was released this past July and she is now headed out on a European tour starting April 16th.
*If you find yourself in Paris on April 19th & 20th, she will be performing at Duc des Lombards. I implore everyone and anyone to buy tickets for a night you won't forget. I love Paris in the springtime... but including an evening listening to jazz and Samara's voice will be beyond joyful...puns intended!
If you can't get to Europe, she will be touring State side and will be performing at the famous Apollo Theater in NY on Saturday, May 19th.
If non of these venues work, I encourage you to search out jazz in your neighborhood. Whether it be finding a great brunch spot, cocktail bar or concert venue, it is a great way to stumble onto amazing talent! You can also play any of these featured albums at your next dinner party and set the mood for a wonderful evening.
To hear some of my favorite jazz pieces by these female artists click here.
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