Bridget B. here and yes, she can sing. Here name is Emily Braden and don't you forget it. Man can this girl belt out a tune and deliver a speedy "Them There Eyes" wow, still can't figure out when she takes a breath on that track.
Farnell Newton posted information about this young lady on his Facebook page and I quickly listened to her songs as found on her myspace page ~ Emily Braden - gotta love the internet for easy access to artists' music. After listening to her and confused as to where she was getting all this soul from I decided to ask for an interview and man is she very well rounded when it comes to Jazz and music in general.
Variety was the key to the interview as I asked her questions about her musical training, people she listened to growing up and even about her connection to Portland, but more importantly, variety was the foundation for her debut album/CD "Soul Walk" that came out in June. It's a half and half CD; half her compositions and half classic standards done Emily Braden style. I'll let you take a listen as you will probably enjoy every track as much as I did.
So, who is this 27 year old who has something to say in both English and Spanish? "Originally from Idaho, powerhouse singer Emily Braden moved to Victoria in 2002 to start what became a four-year mentorship with revered jazz musician Louise Rose. A bold and gifted vocalist, Braden often uses her voice like an instrument, unfurling improvisations that show an affinity for the blues as well as a familiarity with the classic female vocalists of jazz. Her talent brought her to the attention of the great Harry Manx, the “blues raga” guitarist, with whom she has recorded on three albums and toured across Canada..." This was taken from her myspace page so be sure to go there for more on this wonderful, gifted young lady.
She takes the Plaza stage on Saturday, August 15 during the Mt. Hood Jazz Festival - 2:00pm. I'll air the interview somewhere between 8:30pm and 9:30pm so listen to An Evening of Afrotainment Saturday night from 7-10pm.
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Bridget B.