Grammy-nominated vocalist Catherine Russell is set to perform at the Blue Llama Jazz Club in Ann Arbor on October 10, 2023. This marks her first performance in the city in approximately 15 years and her debut at this venue. Russell, who has a rich musical heritage, will showcase her eclectic style, blending jazz and blues from various eras.
A Legacy of Music
Catherine Russell’s musical journey is deeply rooted in her family background. She is the daughter of Luis Russell, a well-known bandleader and pianist who served as the musical director for Louis Armstrong, and Carline Ray, a pioneering vocalist and guitarist. Growing up in a household filled with diverse musical influences, Russell was exposed to a range of sounds, from 1920s jazz to the classics of the Great American Songbook.
“We always had a lot of music playing in the house,” Russell recalled. “The first jazz that I really heard was my father’s recorded music when I was very young. We listened to everything, from Herbie Hancock to Frank Sinatra.” This early exposure laid the foundation for her musical career, which began as a dancer before she transitioned to singing.
From Dance to Song
Initially, Russell did not envision herself as a singer. She studied at the renowned Katherine Dunham dance academy and performed in dance troupes. It wasn’t until college, while participating in the choir led by Reverend Daryl Coley, that she began to explore her vocal talents. “He really threw me into the deep end of the pool,” Russell said, reflecting on her first experience leading a song.
After honing her skills, she toured and recorded with numerous iconic artists, including David Bowie, Steely Dan, and Paul Simon. Her voice has graced over 200 albums, yet it wasn’t until 2006 that she released her debut album as a solo jazz artist, receiving widespread acclaim.
“I was touring with David Bowie,” she explained. “At the end of that tour, my business partner suggested I create my own albums. I didn’t know if it was a good idea, but we recorded and the rest is history.”
An Anticipated Performance
Russell’s upcoming show in Ann Arbor promises to be a captivating experience. She plans to perform a mix of recorded and unrecorded material, reflecting her varied musical influences. “What keeps it fun is good material,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of diverse vocal styles and eras in her performances.
Joining her on stage will be her long-time musical director and guitarist Matt Munisteri, as well as Ben Paterson on piano and Tal Ronen on bass. Russell expressed excitement about returning to Ann Arbor, stating, “I’m really looking forward to it; I’ve missed playing in that town for a long time.”
The concert will take place at the Blue Llama Jazz Club, located at 314 S. Main St., with shows at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.. Tickets start at $50 and are available on the venue’s website, bluellamaclub.com.
Catherine Russell’s performance is not just a concert; it is a celebration of her rich legacy and a testament to her evolution as an artist. With a blend of jazz and blues, the evening promises to be a memorable experience for all attendees.
