by Kevin Amos
“You folks are some real serious music lovers here in Pittsburgh, aren’t you?” asked Rachelle Ferrell to the sold-out crowd at Theater Square. She then proceeded to build a dynamic 13 song set that included audience favorites, a brand new composition called “Back to Me” from her upcoming release “Art and Soul” in addition to what Ferrell described as “grown folks music.”
Ferrell is one of the most vibrant talents on the music scene today. There are not many vocal artists in the industry that have Ferrell’s potent combination of range, phrasing, and musicianship. She is also an extraordinary entertainer.
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| RACHELLE FERRELL |
Her recording on a label started back in 1992.
Ferrell first emerged in the states with her R&B debut “Rachelle Ferrell” (1992), a solid collection of self-penned originals that featured a striking duet with Will Downing on “Nothing Has Ever Felt like This.”
It was with the release of “First Instrument” in 1994 that audiences were really introduced to Ferrell’s jazz style.
Ferrell began singing at the age of six, which many speculate contributed to the “development of her startling six and change octave range.” Her range also includes the ability to sing in the whistle register.
She received classical training in violin at an early age and by the time she was a teen, she was able to play the piano at a professional level. Ferrell’s performance was a combination of several genres and at times with the call and the response interplay it was like being in Wednesday night prayer meeting. Her vocal acrobatics and the interplay with her band mates was something to behold. Some of the highlights of this “Funky Tuesday” evening also included “Sista,” “My Funny Valentine” and “Bye Bye Blackbird.”
The evening was a perfect way to conclude the Directions in JAZZLIVE activities for Jazz Appreciation Month presented by the Cultural Trust.
(For additional information on Rachelle Ferrell go to: https://rachelleferrell.com/. For more information on the Cabaret in Theater Square and JAZZLIVE events go to: www.pgharts.org)
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