Richard Skipper Celebrates...: Barbra Streisand

Showing posts with label Barbra Streisand. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Her Name Is Barbra and On Sunday She Is Being Celebrated

I am simple, complex, generous, selfish, unattractive, beautiful, lazy, and driven.
-Barbra Streisand

Today is Barbra Streisand's birthday and I have spent the day immersed in her music. She truly does make my soul soar. She is someone who should be celebrated daily and I don't think a day goes by in which I don't hear one of her songs.
For the past few years around this time I write about impresario Clifford Bell's LA celebration in LA for Project Angel Food. I was even asked to participate this year but due to my crazy schedule these days, I was unable to attend which kills me and it kills me even more because of the friends and cast that I'm missing by not being there. I think this should be done through Concert Window and they could make even more money!
If you are in LA Sunday night, GO! GO!! GO!!! You will thank me and it's all for a good cause!

The ORIGINAL Funny Girl, Fanny Brice

Barbra, if you see this, let's talk!
SUNDAY, APRIL 28
OUR NAME IS BARBRA 2019: A Benefit for PROJECT ANGEL FOOD"
Featuring the legendary Liz Torres ("The John Larroquette Show", "Gilmore Girls" "Phyllis"), Shawn Ryan (America’s Got Talent) Charlotte Crossley ( Hairspray on Broadway/ OG Harlette) Elaine Gibbs (X Factor) PEGGI BLU (Star Search/ American Idol Coach). Kirsten Holly Smith ( Forever Dusty) KELLY MANTLE (RuPaul’s Drag Race) UNCABARET’s Beth Lapides and Mitch Kaplan, Teresa Tudury,
Jane Kinsey, ANGELO DIVINO, CHASE MASTERSON, STEVE MASTERSON, SUSAN EDWARDS MARTIN and sooo much more!!
Tickets still available (but going fast!) at www.catalinajazzclub.com
ALL PROCEEDS GO TO PROJECT ANGEL FOOD

Project Angel Food is honored once again to be the beneficiary of the 21st Annual Concert of Our Name Is Barbra at the legendary Catalina Bar and Grill! This exciting evening will feature L.A.'s most popular musical artists, from the worlds of Broadway, Cabaret and the Recording Industry.

Go listen to these phenomenal voices as they perform songs associated with the iconic BARBRA STREISAND to celebrate her birthday and to raise money

for one of the most beloved service organizations in Los Angeles, Project Angel Food.

Sunday, April 28, 2019

7:30 PM

Catalina Bar and Grill

6725 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028

General Admission $25 (Plus Two Item Minimum/Minimum waived with full dinner)

VIP Admission $100 (Preferred Seating, Dinner, and FREE PARKING!)

Purchase your tickets TODAY!

Thank you in advance for your support!

Art does not exist only to entertain, but also to challenge one to think, to provoke, even to disturb, in a constant search for truth.

-Barbra Streisand

Also Keep in Mind...
Tonight in NYC!

2019 MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs) Nominee for Best CD Jennifer Roberts She Loves Sheldon (Harnick!) April 24th 10:30 PM Don't Tell Mama 343 West 46th Street NYC $20.00/2 Drink Minimum CASH ONLY
https://donttellmamanyc.com/shows/main/5302-jennifer-roberts-she-loves-sheldon

April 29th 7PM St. Luke's NYC 308 West Forty Sixth (46) Street (just west of 8th ave)
Over 40 Celebrates The Dancers of David Merrick

Daryl Sherman: A Breath of Spring Warming a Chilly April Night by Marilyn Lester

Singer-pianist Daryl Sherman has been a long-time fixture in the international and New York City jazz world.
Her endurance as a favorite is well-founded in her talent and charm. She’s full of life, happy-go-lucky—a perennial breath of spring no matter what the season. Even the sourest of pusses can’t help but leave a Sherman performance smiling broadly. Read more here

Ken Kercheval, J.R. Archrival Cliff Barnes on #Dallas, dies at 83 http://thr.cm/QkujA8

KT Sullivan and Mark Nadler preview their upcoming Duets CD in Richard Skipper Celebrates May Flowers. May 10th 1PM Brunch Show Laurie BeechmanReservations a Must!

Kurt Glenn is making this petition to let the Roundabout Theatre Company know to produce this cult musical on Broadway for its 2019-20 or 2020-21 season. This is one of my most favorite musicals and I realize that Broadway haven't had a show that is provocative, sexy and dazzling since the revivals of "Chicago" and "Cabaret" (which Roundabout already did twice, in 1998 and 2014).

Interesting article on today's concert going experience: I was recently in New York City at a Tony Bennett concert. People had their phones out all over the place. Some were recording videos. They were up and down ... mostly up, even getting drinks. This wasn’t in a tent somewhere. This was Radio City Music Hall. Read MORE

Tootsie Review
We’ve all had that moment of genius, usually while getting stuck on TCM, when the brilliant idea reveals itself to us: This film really deserves a remake, an update stripped of archaic notions or bad hair and polished to a shiny modern sheen. Some movies all but demand it. Tootsie isn’t one. Sydney Pollack’s 1982 film starring Dustin Hoffman seems so perfectly of its time – right down to the blissful ignorance of its unexamined mansplaining – that any fiddling would seem as unnecessary as spray tan on a president. Read MORE

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical Oklahoma!, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this

year—and has returned to Broadway in a vibrant new production—will be celebrated at the 92Y May 4–6 as part of Lyrics and Lyricists.
Rodgers and Hammerstein President Ted Chapin will host the presentations of A Beautiful Dawning—Oklahoma! at 75, which are directed by Parker Esse, with music direction by pianist Andy Einhorn.
In addition to beloved songs from the score, Chapin will examine songs cut from the production during its pre-Broadway run, such as Boys and Girls Like You and Me (later used in State Fair on Broadway), while also exploring Oklahoma's continued relevance 75 years after its history-making Broadway premiere.

Speaking of Oklahoma!, Director Daniel Fish’s revisionist take on the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, Oklahoma!, is a vibrant, more modern rendering of the ground-breaking musical. Not everything the production has to offer works effectively, but there is enough on stage to reinvigorate and propel the show to satisfying heights. Read MORE

When director Daniel Fish’s sultry, sinister take on Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1943 musical game-changer Oklahoma! came to St. Ann’s Warehouse last fall, I, along with most of my critical colleagues, felt a bit like the show’s own Ado Annie: tingling with excitement and helpless to resist. Following a season marked by debate over the revival of “classic” musicals — how much vitality these works retain, what kind of reexaminations are warranted by the present moment, who’s doing the reexamining — Oklahoma! ripped into town like a brushfire: potent, illuminating, and rejuvenating. Read MORE

Adam B Shapiro (Fiddler on The Roof) in yesterday's Easter Bonnet competion

Now, go and do something nice for someone without expecting anything in return!
********

Thank you all! Here's To a Great Tomorrow

Russ Woolley Proudly Presents

Richard Skipper Celebrates

Returns for A Special Presentation on May 5th with Richard Skipper Celebrates May Flowers

A Few Audience Testimonials for Richard Skipper Celebrates Events

Richard Skipper is one of the finest interviewers. Not only is well informed and asks questions

Celebrating Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella and Lesley Ann Warren

that are not the norm, but he is most considerate of his guests. He is funny, kind and appreciative of all his followers, guest and friends. I had the great pleasure of meeting him at one of his events and all the above is true. Thank you Richard Skipper

Marian Mundorf, NYC

Richard's interview with Tom Wopat was personable and fun...I love how Richard tuned in to Tom, along with knowledge as to where Tom will be performing in the near future. It was thrilling as to how Richard remembered Tom presenting Richard with his first MAC award...You never know what exciting revelations turn up on these fascinating interviews...

Yvonne Marie Mcquade NYC

Richard and Russ, your show was spectacular. I have enjoyed many a Sunday in your theatrical care, and the two of you understand the point of putting together a show -- it is to ENTERTAIN!!!!!!!! It was on the one hand so well produced and directed that an audience immediately feels taken care of, but then the consummate mastery of Richard's hosting skills to embrace the audience and the moment(s) and harvest such humor and pleasure from the unexpected. Do I really have to wait until May for another one? LOVE this series, and so grateful for the laughs and the heart. Thank you.

-Ann Kittredge

Stay Tuned for Exciting Things in The Coming Months!
Russ Woolley Proudly Presents
Richard Skipper Celebrates May Flowers on May 5th Laurie Beechman Theatre. This is the last show in this series...For Now
featuring Dawn Derow, Ann Kittredge, Judi Mark, Sue Matsuki, Reggie Whitehead, and special guest stars Mark Nadler and KT Sullivan
Bass: Skip Ward
Sax: Andrew Gutauska
Drums: David Silliman
AND Tracy Stark
Tickets Now On Sale! Wear Blue, Green, or Purple for great photo ops!
https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe.c/10403396

Sue Matsuki

RESERVATIONS A MUST!

With music, reminisces and an afternoon of fun and show business! 90 minutes of merriment and excitement . . .As we Celebrate the Present, we Honor the Past!

When and Where:
Sunday, May 5th - 1 PM, Doors open 12:15

THE LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATRE, 407 West 42nd Street (lower level of the WEST BANK CAFE) Producer: Russ Woolley $30 ticket plus $20 food/beverage minimum - exquisite and reasonably priced food and drink.

Richard Skipper has assembled a great cast to Celebrate and honor . . . RICHARD SKIPPER has become synonymous with "feel good entertainment of the highest quality". For decades Richard has entertained thousands and celebrated the careers of many of Theatre Row’s finest and most honored stars… The afternoon will prove to be an event where all will arrive and leave with smiles! This will be similar to the old-fashioned TV specials and series where we get to chat with and honor this Entertainment Icon.

Tickets NOW on sale! Reserve TODAY to ensure your seat!

This Show Is Also Made Possible by Wright Bros. Real Estate, Nyack New York

With grateful XOXOXs,

CallonDolly.com

Please LIKE (if you do!) and SHARE!

NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED. FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY!

Please do what YOU can to be more aware that words and actions DO HURT...but they can also heal and help!

Keeping America great through Art!

Here's to an INCREDIBLE tomorrow for ALL...with NO challenges!

Please leave a comment and share on Twitter and Facebook
Keeping Entertainment LIVE!

TILL TOMORROW...HERE'S TO AN ARTS FILLED DAY

Richard Skipper, Richard@RichardSkipper.com
This Blog is Dedicated to Shirley MacLaine who also has a Birthday today!

Friday, March 23, 2018

Cabaret Month Tiffany Bynoe...and MORE!

Tiffany Bynoe

When I have a little money, I buy books; and if I have any left, I buy food and clothes.
— Erasmus.

Happy March 23rd, 2018!
March 23 is the 82nd day of the year. There are 283 days remaining until the end of the year.

My horoscope tells me that although I might be tempted to bury my feelings today, it’s time to leave my comfortable intellectual world behind to discover the richness that waits in the vulnerable realms of intimacy. I'll take it!
I'm continuing today with my series celebrating Cabaret Month.
As I begin today's blog, I'm listening to The World's in Rhyme: Bill Solly's Greatest Hits-Volume 1.

I appeared in Bill Solly's children's sow in the early Eighties, The Cat in the Castle. I played the royal cat catcher, Ham Hamwich.
I think it was typecasting!
That was when I became familiar with Bill Solly and his music.
There are so many great artists that those of us in the industry may or may not be familiar with. My goal through Richard Skipper Celebrates is to give them a little bit more exposure.
Thanks to good publicists, really good artists are brought to my attention and the subject of today's blog is no exception to that rule. Tom Estey, thank you for introducing me to Tiffany Bynoe! I am now a fan!

Tiffany Bynoe
Tiffany Bynoe (born Tiffany Williams) is a

contemporary gospel singer with a background in '90s urban music and an affection for modern pop and R and B production. Singing since shortly after she could talk, Williams grew up in Akron, Ohio, where her grandmother, a radio promoter, advised the young vocalist to take every opportunity to perform publicly. Having competed in Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater multiple times -- winning three -- and declined a record contract offer by age 16, the singer was already an experienced entertainer when she moved to New York City after finishing high school. There, she signed with Pendulum Records. Her debut album, Tene Williams, was released in 1993 under that moniker, and the single "Give Him a Love He Can Feel" hit the Billboard Hot 100 and various R&B and dance charts. Around that time, she married producer Kyle Bynoe and started a family, which led to a prolonged break from pursuing her own music career, if not from the industry entirely, and a relocation back to Akron.

The family found renewed focus in ministry, with Kyle shifting from work in secular to religious music. In the meantime, Bynoe appeared as a guest or backing vocalist on the occasional gospel recording and founded a nonprofit called Gabby's Heart, which advocates for families dealing with children's heart conditions like her own daughter's.

In the 2010s, Bynoe returned to the studio with an objective to make music with positive messages and released the ballad "Your Love Completes Me" in 2011 as Tene Williams, and "Blessed by the Best" in 2013 as Tiffany Bynoe.
Preceded by the single "Seasons" and produced by her husband, her debut Tiffany Bynoe album was expected in 2016.

Enjoy our Interview...
Who/What keeps you going in the creative process?

Who? God - Knowing I have a purpose that could touch and change reach someone life

What, other than music, has inspired you recently?
Compassion for humanity wanting to see the messages of love and understand you exist for more than just yourself I quote: Oprah lean into the dream

Who are your biggest musical influences?
Whitney Houston, Natalie Cole, Phyllis Hyman, Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, of course, my uncle Howard Hewett

What are your thoughts on today’s entertainment industry
Change! It’s an even playing field now that gives the opportunity to the independent artists to have more control over their masters and option to negotiate with the major's nothing is wrong with the majors but you can create your own door now

Tell us a secret.

When I step onto the stage I become whoever I want to be... shhh

What about your career isn’t working?

Right now it’s all working the process is necessary...the team helps vision and Dream ..also I have a book and other ways to reach and get in front of people... you must be creative

How did you hear you’d booked your first big gig?
Through my manager

What is your favorite event in the entertainment industry?

Well several, one is the Grammys, The Oscars the VMA Emmys. I love fashion and creativity. I can view this in each of these events.

If you could have coffee with any living person, it would be

Oprah Winfrey

If you could trade places with anybody for a day, you would choose…
Oprah Winfrey-
Why? Having the resources to help people is very inspiring to me...

If there were no barriers to entry, what is one thing you would be doing?
Using my gifts like Michael Jackson and those who had a message and compassion for humanity to help make a change in the lives of others

If you could describe yourself in one word what would it be?
Tenacious

What is one instance of knowing you are living in your vision?
When someone comes up to you and writes and expresses how the message of my songs has touched and encouraged them right when they needed it the most, my heart melts when I hear this and when I give them my story and encourage them not to give up and to be OK with scars because you are still beautiful..

To be successful in this business, it takes…
Willing to know that the process is part of the journey and being led by your passion and Heart with dedication and patience and integrity A pure heart will always win

Name one person you would like to see profiled in my blog

Bette Midler- I love her.. hopefully I’ll do musicals one

What's next?
My Book: Ugly Duckling No More.
4/0 and Fabulous online fashion - and Talk Show
Olive Tree Collection” my makeup line

Anything else you wish included?

My Brand includes all of the above.. we should go into our dream jars and pull out what is in our hearts and fly.
Come Join the Pond where love is accepted. Different is allowed...
For years while I was tending to my child who had heart disease. I take all of my dreams and visions, ball them up, and put them in a jar.
That’s how I came up with “dreams in a jar”. This is a show I want to film showing me taking what I wrote down on that piece of paper and share the experience of me accomplishing those goals.

"Seasons," the new single from Tiffany Bynoe, now available for download. Get it on iTunes, Amazon Music, or Google Play! Listen HERE.

Richard's Friday Picks
The New Nightlife Mayor Has Arrived – Where Do We Go from Here?
March 23, 2018, NiteLife Exchange by Marilyn Lester
Nightlife, the naughty stepchild of live entertainment, may finally be finding redemption and validation with the long-awaited repeal of the so-called “Cabaret Law” and the creation of the City Office of Nightlife. Mayor Bill de Blasio signed the legislation to appoint a New York Nightlife Mayor into law in September 2017, followed by the repeal of the Cabaret Law in November. We are now at a turning point in which really significant opportunities for the cabaret community are on the horizon. Read MORE.

Today is the birthday of Joan Crawford. Her legacy has forever been tarnished because of Mommie Dearest but I still celebrate her body of WORTH.

Fay Wray Travels HD We recently lost Rick McKay. Thank you, Michael Lee Stever, for bringing

Rick McKay and Fay Wray

this to my attention.

Ken Rush has worked in the cruise industry for over 31 years, starting as a DJ, then worked his way up from cruise staff, shore excursions, and stage and production. After only four years with Royal Caribbean, he became one of the company's youngest cruise directors. He is now part of the “elite” take out team – introducing the latest ships like the Quantum of the Seas, the Oasis, the Allure and most recently the Harmony of the Seas. Enjoy this great interview with Ken HERE.

San Francisco! Only a handful of seats left for this weekend's Broadway Bound cabaret at the Circus Center. Grab your seat and Cabaret Chanteuse Madame Leanne Borghesi and the Roger Glenn Trio will see you at the Show! xoxoxo

Now, go and do something nice for someone without expecting anything in return!

Here are a Few Testimonials for Richard Skipper Celebrates: Next One March 18th 1PM Laurie Beechman Theater:

April 8th, 2018

Russ Woolley Proudly Presents
Richard Skipper Celebrates
Broadway and off-Broadway Firsts...and More!

1 PM Brunch Show Laurie Beechman Theater

Lane Bradbury created the role of Dainty June in the original Broadway production of the classic show Gypsy starring Ethel Merman.
Annie Hughes off-Broadway Closer Than Ever
Lauren Mufson Broadway and National Touring companies of Mamma Mia!
Marta Sanders Best Little Whorehouse In Texas Original Company
AND A MYSTERY GUEST!

Musical Direction Joe Goodrich with Rex Benincasa on Percussion, Steve Doyle on bass, and Erik Lawrence on Sax

With music, reminisces and an afternoon of fun and show business! 90 minutes of merriment and excitement …Right on the heels of the 2/11 Russ Woolley's CELEBRATES Richard Skipper's’ BIRTHDAY…SELL-OUT Extravaganza…

When and Where:
Sunday, April 8th - 1 PM, Doors open 12:15

THE LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATRE, 407 West 42nd Street (lower level of the WEST BANK CAFE) Producer: Russ Woolley $30 ticket plus $20 food/beverage minimum - exquisite and reasonably priced food and drink

Richard Skipper has assembled a great cast to entertain and honor Broadway and off-Broadway artists… RICHARD SKIPPER has become synonymous with “feel good entertainment of the highest quality”. For decades Richard has entertained thousands and celebrated the careers of many of Theatre Row’s finest and most honored stars… It is now our turn to honor artists and the roles they created and/or made their own… The afternoon will prove to be an event where all will arrive and leave with smiles! This will be similar to the old-fashioned TV specials and series where we get to chat with and honor this Entertainment Icon.

So — Order your tickets now online…
RESERVATIONS A MUST!
https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe.c/10248067

A Few Audience Testimonials

I had the immense pleasure of performing in Richard's Nov. 5th show. Richard's introduction of me was so lush, that I was looking behind myself to see who he was talking about! So, with his wonderful band behind me, I hope that I gave the folks something to 'write home about"! By the end of the evening, I felt as if I had been missing out on a tradition that is integral to showbiz!! Before I could even get through the doors of the theater, I was warmly greeted by people who had seen me perform in other venues but were "fierce cheerleaders" of the 'RICHARD SKIPPER CELEBRATES MOVEMENT' ...YES.I see this as a 'MOVEMENT', a wonderful way to keep us 'Baby Boomers' connected to iconic shows that set a standard for every show that would come down the pike! Richard's show took me back to the grand days of variety shows that drew you in and held on to your heart for 60 to 90 minutes every Saturday and Sunday evening. Hey Richard, I could've sworn that I saw Pearl Bailey, Perry Como & Dinah Shore sitting at a table in the back of the room! If you ever need me again, just remember the lyrics of that famous Michael Jackson song and "JUST CALL MY NAME AND I'LL BE THERE"!

Denise Spann-Morgan, Brooklyn NY

Just had the pleasure of attending my first Richard Skipper Celebrates at the Laurie Beechman today. I was captivated from beginning to end. I had no expectations, I thought it was just going to be a conventional cabaret (not that there's anything wrong with that :) ) but instead it was an excellently produced, thoughtful and warm celebration of music and music-makers. I will be back!

Ann Kittredge, NYC

I attended the premiere edition of Richard Skipper Celebrates last May, and wrote at the time, "...the musical entertainment blew the roof off the joint..". I was so looking forward to celebrating my own birthday at the Richard Skipper Celebrates June 20th edition, the following month, but due to circumstances, as described by Richard, he had unfortunately canceled it. I was mortified but nevertheless attended a few more editions this past year. I especially love the transition of the event to the Laurie Beechman Theatre. The terrific brunch alone is worth partaking and the musical entertainment and hijinx are the Cherry on top! I am so looking forward to the next editionSo let's get the party started... who wants to join me at Richard Skipper Celebrates...?

Avi Duvdevani, South Amboy NJ

The show is also made possible by Wright Bros. Real Estate.

With grateful XOXOXs,

Klea Blackhurst as Dolly at The Goodspeed Opera House

CallonDolly.com

Please LIKE (if you do!) and SHARE!

NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED. FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY!

Please do what YOU can to be more aware that words and actions DO HURT...but they can also heal and help!
Keeping America great through Art!

Here's to an INCREDIBLE tomorrow for ALL...with NO challenges!

Please leave a comment and share on Twitter and Facebook
Keeping Entertainment LIVE!

TILL TOMORROW...HERE'S TO AN ARTS FILLED DAY

Richard Skipper, Richard@RichardSkipper.com

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Cabaret Month: Anna Danes and MORE!

The key to success is emotional stability.

-Warren Buffet

Happy March 21st, 2018!
March 21 is the 80th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. There are 285 days remaining until the end of the year.
In my continuation of celebrating Cabaret Month, today I would like to introduce you to someone that I have fallen in love with! I love her voice!! Anna Danes.
Discovering a new life, fresh purpose and her true inner voice after years of keeping up appearances in an unfulfilled existence she called a “gilded cage,” Anna Danes is truly flying high. The emerging jazz vocalist and songwriter captures the inspirational philosophy that continues to propel her forward in the opening lines from “Find Your Wings,” the gorgeous piano-vocal ballad that is the title track and centerpiece to her new full length album.

Speaking both to her soul and to millions of women who seek the courage to liberate themselves and follow their deeper creative passions, she sings, “When you feel that you don’t fit/You’re not understood one bit/Find Your Wings/You can rise above the fray/Sing what you can’t seem to say/Find Your Wings.”

The Polish born, San Diego based multi-faceted artist and performer’s advocacy for passion-pursuing and dream chasing has caught on quickly. Upon its release, Find Your Wings debuted at #1 on the iTunes jazz chart. Soon thereafter, it placed on two Billboard charts, reaching #13 on the Traditional Jazz chart and in the Top 25 on the Jazz Albums chart. The collection, a follow-up to her well received 2013 debut Longing, was produced by Dave Darling (Brian Setzer, Tom Waits, Jack Johnson, Motley Crue) and recorded with top L.A. session musicians in Capitol’s Studios A, where greats like Frank Sinatra and Nat “King” Cole once held court.

A true Renaissance woman who has used music as a springboard to become a motivational speaker, budding author, noted philanthropist and live show producer in the San Diego area, Anna recently created a vision board for the way she wants her career to unfold.
It includes images of her flying out of LAX to a multitude of destinations, stages with microphones and large audiences, the Hollywood Bowl, NYC skyscrapers, Grammy Awards, even the cover of Time Magazine. Bold? Yes! Yet none of these hopes and dreams seemed remotely possible just a few years ago, when her marriage was breaking down and the onetime stay at home mom was trying to literally find her wings and start over at the age of 43. Recording her second album in the place where the legends worked their timeless magic was the ultimate confirmation that she had succeeded in re-inventing herself while sharing those long latent musical gifts with the world.

“I could feel my jaw literally drop, walking in there where these icons created their magic and realizing that this was my time to make my mark,” Anna says. “It was truly an incredible trip and dream come true.
Our incredible production team brought in old mics from all the greats that worked with them in the past, we used a Yamaha that Nat had played. I recorded ‘That’s All’ with Richard Shelton, one of the world’s premiere Sinatra singers, in grand Frank style, using his old mics in the middle of the Studio A, Sinatra style!
“For me,” she adds, “the moment went deeper than recording a wonderful track in a historic setting.

For a girl who spent the first part of her childhood in Communist Poland under a repressive regime, it was a moment that reminded me of the freedom and unlimited potential we can reach in America.

It was also a connection to the classic Hollywood movies I watched in those days, growing up with big dreams and fantasies while living in a small apartment in Poland, of what it would be like to be onstage dressed in sequins.”
Darling helped Anna realize her vision to create a recording in the style of the classic 1975 Tony Bennett/Bill Evans album that she heard for the first time a few years ago. “I loved the sparsity of the music and how strong Tony’s vocals were, how absolutely magnificent Bill’s playing was,” she muses.

“I thought that if I were to make another album it would be like that, strong and simple, with exceptional musicians who could tell their own story on their respective instruments.”
Having quickly developed her strengths as an authentic storyteller, lyricist and songwriter, Anna’s initial concept was to create an album of all original songs. Darling had hooked her up with veteran songwriters Cindy Alexander and Mary Harris, which resulted in powerful pieces that doubled as spiritual affirmations and declarations of the joy of finding new love – true emotional progress from her debut album, which centered on her longing for true connection.

Ultimately, Anna and Darling decided on the perfect balance – six originals and six golden standards that would reflect her new outlook on life while establishing a link to the history of jazz even as she was adding her own stamp on the genre.

“Find Your Wings is about me having found my passion and purpose and being set free on this exciting new path of music, which allowed me to leave my cage of self-doubt,” she says.

“I had a cushy lifestyle and could have taken the path of least resistance and stayed in it.
Five years ago I was a pale shadow of myself, dressed nicely for all the world to see but empty inside.”

The six standards on Find Your Wings are all “dear friends” already in her repertoire – “I Will Wait For You,” “It’s Crazy,” “I Want to Be Around/Cry Me A River,” “That’s All” and “In The Wee Small Hours.” The six originals are powerful snapshots of her life from around the time she wrote them. “The Voice,” a co-write

with Alexander, is about life at the end of her marriage, while “Mr. OMG,” co-penned with Harris, reflects on life after separation.
The others – “Long Distance” (co-written with Darling), “See You in L.A.” (with Alexander) and “I Love You,” a hypnotic a capella piece written by Anna that closes the set – are life with a new love and falling in love for the first time in a long time.
Although the title track, Find Your Wings, is universal in its emotional impact, Anna says she initially had herself and her daughter in mind when she wrote it. Ironically, the singer initially

discovered her latent vocal gifts via vocal lessons she had won in an auction and originally gave to her daughter, who had expressed a strong interest in music.
When her daughter wanted to quit after a few lessons, Anna stepped in and took one herself. The teacher, upon hearing her voice, said, ‘Wow, where did you come from?’ One of the teachers, veteran pianist, arranger and composer Larry White, became Anna’s mentor, helping her stay in tune, develop a unique style, find suitable songs and reach her potential. As composer, performer and producer, White guided the creative process of recording Longing.
In addition to her career as a singer, Anna produces private and public events as well as the very successful Jazz on Cedros concert series in San Diego that has celebrated sold out shows since its inception in 2014. She is currently writing her first book – also titled “Find Your Wings” – which chronicles her incredible journey from Poland to Canada and Southern California, through her careers as a lawyer and business manager for her husband, and the amazing unfolding of her musical artistry.
It is also a book of motivation and inspiration.

Anna recently began producing another ambitious project, The Jazz Divas, bringing together 15 of San Diego’s top jazz singers and presenting them in a glamorous Vanity Fair cover-style photoshoot held at the San Diego Symphony. Magazine editorials, a documentary and a “Jazz Divas” show based on the concept are currently in the works. She is also an avid philanthropist for causes that support women, children and the arts, with a seat on the board of the San Diego Symphony.

“When I first discovered my gift,” Anna says, “it was such a great feeling being able to sing, and I felt free and liberated for the first time in my life. I believe everything happens at the right time, and lived through so many geographic and emotional upheavals, I can bring truck-fuls of experience into every lyric I share. It’s a lot to have dealt with – three immigrations, losing my entire family, going through divorce, and illness – but from all that I’m able to bring a genuineness and honesty that comes with time and wisdom and not be afraid to show any of it. There’s a dignity that comes from being yourself and letting people know that it’s okay to be vulnerable – because we’re all in this together.”

Enjoy our interview...

What keeps you going in the creative process?
Life unfolding around me! My songs have been largely autobiographical - for me that’s the only way to go.

I cannot write about things that are not intimately familiar to me, that have not left a mark on my heart somehow. I get inspired by love, like most of us. I get inspired by beauty and nature - and hope. And every day, even the cloudy ones, are an opportunity to see something new, exciting or just through a different lens. I get excited by life, yes! And even the pain moves me because you have to deal with it and the best way to resolve pain is to create art with it and deliver an uplifting message that others will hopefully relate to.

What, other than music, has inspired you recently?
I’m a very visual and creative person, so my surroundings are key to inspiring me on a daily basis. My house, which is filled with tons of color and folk art, puts a smile on my face every day - that’s my baseline.
From there, I get inspired by a variety of things. Recently, I wrote a couple of blogs about a photoshoot I had in the Hollywood Hills - full on Old Hollywood glamour, under the Hollywood sign - and I discussed what “sexy” means to me. Nowadays, sexy gets lumped with trashier things - we tend to forget that sexy is healthy, normal and feminine for a woman.
I am making jazz sexy again - just being myself, glamorous, confident, curvy, never over-revealing, but always honest. You can read the blog here - it got published recently: keysandchords.com/news-blog/anna-danes-is-making-jazz-sexy-again

Who are your biggest musical influences?
I grew up with disco in the 1970’s in Poland! ABBA was a huge influence then. Also listened to a lot of adult contemporary music because of my parents: Streisand, Manilow, etc. Jazz came into my world when I was in my 20’s and I instantly fell in love with Ella Fitzgerald, the warm tone of her voice and its incredible power. Next came Sinatra. I can’t stop listening to that man.

Every time I turn Siriusly Sinatra on, I discover yet another song he did that I never heard of, a new way to phrase things, a new way express an emotion - and be unapologetically yourself.

What are your thoughts on today's music industry? Good, Bad, Indifferent
Complex. Still trying to figure it out! And the world of jazz and standards is so much different than the rest of the industry. Jazz is the quiet one that hasn’t been affected as much I don’t think by streaming and other changes.
Jazz lives in the moment so best place to hear jazz is in a live performance. I produce jazz shows in San Diego. They are hugely popular. Are we getting rich on them? No! But is everyone having fun, young and old - you bet! And it’s different every time, from fun to intellectually complex, from age-old familiar standards to in the moment insane

improvisations! Getting back to the bigger music industry question, I was reading Billboard Magazine yesterday and their “Top 100” issue. What blew me away is how much music is simply just big business now.

How did your latest CD come about?
My latest CD is called “Find Your Wings”. I was inspired by Hollywood and all things classic jazz! I was dating a gentlemen in the entertainment industry at the time too - a high up player.

I was inspired by him and his world and our relationship. So I wrote 6 (co-worte 5) songs about it. And then I decided to follow my musical heroes to the heart of Hollywood and record in the footsteps of Sinatra and Bennett at Capitol Studios! The sound of the album drew inspiration for the Bennett/Evans collaboration - strong and sparse. The look of the album was all classic glamour and beautiful, complete with a mural of Marilyn Monroe behind me on the album cover. The other six songs on the album are classic standards, re-worked in a fresh way by some of the best session players in Los Angeles.
Rich Ruttenberg arranged and played piano; Trey Henry on bass; John Ferraro on drums. Dave Darling produced and mixed and Steve Genewick engineered. The album has received countless positive critical reviews and ended up debuting #1 on the iTunes Jazz Chart and Top 25 in ALL of Billboard Jazz. I am quite proud of my “baby”!

What about your career isn’t working?

Music business is tricky, like any part of entertainment. It takes years and years sometimes to get wider recognition. You also have to have a great team around you and know who to trust. I’ve had some trip ups and disappointments, but you just keep going.
Wish I was “there” already, lol! And by that I mean, touring regularly and performing on big stages - that’s the plan!

How did you hear you’d booked your first big gig?
A phone call from the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club three years ago.
They wanted me to sing the National Anthem for Opening Day of Del Mar Racing, 45,000 people in attendance. I am a new immigrant to the US. I’ve never sang the National Anthem before!!!! But I took the gig and went to work and the following week, nailed it!
And then was asked the last two years as well!

What is your favorite event in the entertainment industry?

My shows: Jazz on Cedros, now in its 4th year in Solana Beach.
I bring different talent together at San Diego’s biggest urban winery, and we create a jazz night like no other, full of great music, fun, glamour, wine and gourmet food.
My other favorite event in the entertainment industry - sitting on the couch, watching the Grammys.
I went to the Grammys and the parties last year.
It was better on the couch at home!

If you could have coffee with any living person, it would be...
DAVID FOSTER and I’d convince him to produce for me an EPIC Jazz/Pop record the likes of which have never been heard before, lol, which would smash all of Michael Buble’s and Diana Krall’s records! That’s ALL!

If you could trade places with anybody for a day, you would choose…
I’d kick Tony Bennett off the stage at a sold out Hollywood Bowl summer concert, assuming the LA Philharmonic was backing him up, and take over for the night!

If there were no barriers to entry, what is one thing you would be doing?

Singing, speaking, writing, entertaining, inspiring professionally on very large stages around the world in front of millions.

If you could describe yourself in one word what would it be?
Authentic

What is one instance of knowing you are living in your vision?
Being asked by the San Diego Symphony four years in a row to produce and perform at one of their key fundraisers where glamour and jazz come together!

When can we expect your next CD?
No plans for release date but the songs are starting to write themselves! Was waiting for new stories! Maybe in 2019.

Name one person you would like to see profiled in my blog
Daneen Wilburn - friend and fellow singer from San Diego. About to release her debut album produced by two time Grammy Winner Kamau Kenyatta (Gregory Porter). She’s AWESOME!!! (Editor's Note: Daneen, if you see this, contact me!)

What's next?
Health. I just got diagnosed with breast cancer. First things first and hopefully the music will resume soon.

Anything else you wish included?
Always believe in yourself, live with passion, don’t be scared….and “Find Your Wings”!

Order Anna Danes' Find Your Wings HERE

Richard's Picks For The Day

ScoBar Entertainment is pleased to present DON MOST, as he returns to the Iridium stage with his new show Mostly Swinging, for one performance only, Tuesday, April 3, 2018, at 8:30pm. Best known to television audiences as “Ralph Malph” of the long-running show Happy Days, Don will be joined by his quartet.