Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Bits of History Repeating
February 2011
After a slight prompting of my Mum, I decided to talk a little about my last show.
I was hired by the Prince George Black History Organization to perform as their headliner for the kick off of the month long events for Black History.
An honor for me to be in my home town thinking of this thought provoking event.
I was born in Prince George, a predominately white community and we joke, that growing up in our community in the 70's, there were 3 black families: Morgans Reynolds and Washingtons. Of course there were more, but we were big family's and were easily noticed due to sports, church etc.
Preparing for this show, I wanted to use new repertoire and began to research some songs with my pianist. One song I've always wanted to sing was Strange Fruit, and after hearing Nina Simone's haunting version, I knew hers was the one that I wanted to emulate.
Looking for songs allows you to research and discover the stories behind the music which are interesting and eye opening. To read the struggles of the black musicians in the 20's, 30's, 40's etc. is encouraging yet heartbreaking; to see what these musicians had lived through, sacrificed and struggle throughout their lives just to make it 'big' in the industry, most of them paid improperly and with their lives.
My experience:
Music has a beautiful way of documenting the events, emotions and details of a time and place. Their stories can be clear and concise or can leave room for interpretation. Strange Fruit is a powerful song that needs no interpretation. I realize that this song was written to remind us of what 'was' and what should never be.
As I began to sing the song, Strange Fruit' I had vivid pictures in my mind and I struggled to sing without emotion, this was impossible. A waver here and there, but I pressed on as I felt that this story must be told yet again and especially for those who did not know of how severe the lynchings in the south was.
I came to last line and could go no further to make the statement of my people as "a strange a bitter crop" was too overwhelming for me. I stepped away from the microphone and allowed the pianist to play then shared these words from my heart.
"I am sorry for all of those who lost their lives, and yet, I am thankful for my grandparents and their parents that they had the courage to survive, for had they not, I would not be here today."
It was a sobering thought for me... I am only here because of the courage and strength of my ancestors!
I moved on to Sam Cook's song "A Change is gonna come" it seemed most fitting after Strange Fruits morbid truth, to sing a song of hope, A hope for even now seemed most fitting. I love SEAL'S version of it. A beautiful classic song that has stood the test of time! Once again Sam's life ended early and to this day they really don't know how he was murdered. He wrote the song "A Change is Going to Come, after being inspired by Bob Dylan's song "Blowing in the Wind" It was a risky move on his part to sing boldly about racism, but after hearing Dylan's song he felt a song about racism should be told from a black man's point of view... So he took the risk and to this day we all still feel inspired and thank full by Sam Cooke's song!
The whole night was moving for me, and I felt that I stepped ever so slightly in the inspiring shoes of these gifted song writers and performers from the past. I am humbled by their courage and thankful that these stories are still being told today.
Diva M
After a slight prompting of my Mum, I decided to talk a little about my last show.
I was hired by the Prince George Black History Organization to perform as their headliner for the kick off of the month long events for Black History.
An honor for me to be in my home town thinking of this thought provoking event.
I was born in Prince George, a predominately white community and we joke, that growing up in our community in the 70's, there were 3 black families: Morgans Reynolds and Washingtons. Of course there were more, but we were big family's and were easily noticed due to sports, church etc.
Preparing for this show, I wanted to use new repertoire and began to research some songs with my pianist. One song I've always wanted to sing was Strange Fruit, and after hearing Nina Simone's haunting version, I knew hers was the one that I wanted to emulate.
Looking for songs allows you to research and discover the stories behind the music which are interesting and eye opening. To read the struggles of the black musicians in the 20's, 30's, 40's etc. is encouraging yet heartbreaking; to see what these musicians had lived through, sacrificed and struggle throughout their lives just to make it 'big' in the industry, most of them paid improperly and with their lives.
My experience:
Music has a beautiful way of documenting the events, emotions and details of a time and place. Their stories can be clear and concise or can leave room for interpretation. Strange Fruit is a powerful song that needs no interpretation. I realize that this song was written to remind us of what 'was' and what should never be.
As I began to sing the song, Strange Fruit' I had vivid pictures in my mind and I struggled to sing without emotion, this was impossible. A waver here and there, but I pressed on as I felt that this story must be told yet again and especially for those who did not know of how severe the lynchings in the south was.
I came to last line and could go no further to make the statement of my people as "a strange a bitter crop" was too overwhelming for me. I stepped away from the microphone and allowed the pianist to play then shared these words from my heart.
"I am sorry for all of those who lost their lives, and yet, I am thankful for my grandparents and their parents that they had the courage to survive, for had they not, I would not be here today."
It was a sobering thought for me... I am only here because of the courage and strength of my ancestors!
I moved on to Sam Cook's song "A Change is gonna come" it seemed most fitting after Strange Fruits morbid truth, to sing a song of hope, A hope for even now seemed most fitting. I love SEAL'S version of it. A beautiful classic song that has stood the test of time! Once again Sam's life ended early and to this day they really don't know how he was murdered. He wrote the song "A Change is Going to Come, after being inspired by Bob Dylan's song "Blowing in the Wind" It was a risky move on his part to sing boldly about racism, but after hearing Dylan's song he felt a song about racism should be told from a black man's point of view... So he took the risk and to this day we all still feel inspired and thank full by Sam Cooke's song!
The whole night was moving for me, and I felt that I stepped ever so slightly in the inspiring shoes of these gifted song writers and performers from the past. I am humbled by their courage and thankful that these stories are still being told today.
Diva M
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Blues In The Night - CD Review by Joseph Blake
Victoria-based vocalist Maureen Washington's Blues in the Night...and Stories My Mama Told Me is an inspired, impressive collection of performances. Backed by Karel Roessingh's elegantly bluesy piano, Washington reshapes an eclectic repertoire of her mother's favourite tunes with a smoldering, understated vocal approach.
Her readings of Etta James' R&B classic At Last and Norah Jones' hit Come Away With Me burn with restraint and strength. Her version of Peel Me a Grape is more dramatic and features exquisite timing and taste. Backed by Roessingh's funky, parlor piano phrasing and masterful solo, it's a delight, as is Washington's equally theatrical reinvention of her blues title track. She works more restrained, subtle magic on vintage country material You Don't Know Me and Turn Me On. Georgia gets an even more soulful reading.
A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square and The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face are stark, revealing readings, and the deep blues vocal on Stormy Monday wraps up a triumphant recording. Great!
Needless to say, I loved it.
Joseph Blake
Her readings of Etta James' R&B classic At Last and Norah Jones' hit Come Away With Me burn with restraint and strength. Her version of Peel Me a Grape is more dramatic and features exquisite timing and taste. Backed by Roessingh's funky, parlor piano phrasing and masterful solo, it's a delight, as is Washington's equally theatrical reinvention of her blues title track. She works more restrained, subtle magic on vintage country material You Don't Know Me and Turn Me On. Georgia gets an even more soulful reading.
A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square and The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face are stark, revealing readings, and the deep blues vocal on Stormy Monday wraps up a triumphant recording. Great!
Needless to say, I loved it.
Joseph Blake
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Music Promo by Richie Auriemma
Victoria, BC has a secret......but not the kind that's kept under wraps or behind closed doors.....it shines in the beautiful & talented Maureen Washington.
Man, can this gal belt it out.And then in the next breath enchant you & perhaps make you & your partner to dance a little closer...smile a little deeper.
Smooth is a word that used an awful lot for jazzy type singers. Maureen is the definition of it. The end as well as the beginning.
There is a richness in her tone that I have never heard before from any other singer. To hear it nine fold, check out LA VIE EN ROSE......it's what dreams are made of.
You know how you feel when you hear a voice that you know is gonna be with you forever.....I find this with Maureen Washington. A true singer out there in a field of her own goodness.
SUMMERTIME, RIGHT STUFF, & LETS MAKE IT HAPPEN are diamonds to discover here as well.
I am head over heels for Maureen's work....you will be to....and you'll thank me for it. I PROMISE!!!!
Please support Maureen Washington & her stellar body of work.
Tx--Richie Auriemma
http://www.reverbnation.com/auriemma
http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
Man, can this gal belt it out.And then in the next breath enchant you & perhaps make you & your partner to dance a little closer...smile a little deeper.
Smooth is a word that used an awful lot for jazzy type singers. Maureen is the definition of it. The end as well as the beginning.
There is a richness in her tone that I have never heard before from any other singer. To hear it nine fold, check out LA VIE EN ROSE......it's what dreams are made of.
You know how you feel when you hear a voice that you know is gonna be with you forever.....I find this with Maureen Washington. A true singer out there in a field of her own goodness.
SUMMERTIME, RIGHT STUFF, & LETS MAKE IT HAPPEN are diamonds to discover here as well.
I am head over heels for Maureen's work....you will be to....and you'll thank me for it. I PROMISE!!!!
Please support Maureen Washington & her stellar body of work.
Tx--Richie Auriemma
http://www.reverbnation.com/auriemma
http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Blues in the Night show review by Christine Skorepa - PG Citizen
October 22, 2010
Christine Skorepa
Citizen staff
There's something to be said for days gone by when big boxy microphones were used by a bluesy soul songstress as she soothed stressed audience members with her sultry tone.
Maureen Washington performed at the Prince George Playhouse last weekend to celebrate her new CD release Blues in the Night and what a night it was.
Washington floated to the microphone in a siren-red dress and when she opened her mouth the sheer emotion she poured into her music was enough to set my heart stirring.
I know I was only one girl sitting with one boy in the audience but Washington moved me like I have never been moved before. I cried through her entire first set of songs.
At Last my was complete undoing and right along with Peel Me A Grape, Blues in the Night and the heart break of You Don't Know Me left me shattered - but in a good way. It was so moving.
Washington's voice is unique, strong yet smooth and her dulcet tones are those of a familiar friend and a vamp. It's just amazing to me to watch the emotions wash over her lovely face in a very telling way and she connects to her audience by including them in her joys and triumphs, her sorrow and heart break.
Because the album is dedicated and created for her mother Barbara Washington, who was in the audience, there was a dialogue being carried on between the two of them and I don't mean emotionally. I mean they were talking to each other throughout the concert with Barbara sharing some sweet moments with the audience as well. It was great to be a witness to this tribute that honoured a mother well loved by her daughter.
Washington grew up in Prince George and moved to Victoria to further her career four years ago. Because of her strong connections to this town she returns often.
I must say Karel Roessingh the piano player that accompanied Washington was superb. He literally tickled the ivories and I finally got what that phrase meant. His fingers flew so quickly and the notes were so clear and crisp and I get it. He really did tickle the ivories.
Shawn Smith played saxophone and clarinet to lend a lovely tone to the songs. He seemed very experienced and was very good humoured when Washington got a bit playful with him, adding to the performance.
Washington gave the evening her all and left nothing undone. Her performance is something I will never forget and for her finale she chose Georgia because it reminds her of Prince George and finally, I was not alone with my tears. Several members of the audience joined me and I was so happy to see that.
So, Prince George music lovers, don't miss the next opportunity to hear Washington sing. She's coming back to town at the beginning of December.
I'll keep you posted on the details.
In the meantime check her out at http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington.
[Get Copyright Permissions] Click here for reuse options!
Copyright 2010 Glacier Media Inc.
Christine Skorepa
Citizen staff
There's something to be said for days gone by when big boxy microphones were used by a bluesy soul songstress as she soothed stressed audience members with her sultry tone.
Maureen Washington performed at the Prince George Playhouse last weekend to celebrate her new CD release Blues in the Night and what a night it was.
Washington floated to the microphone in a siren-red dress and when she opened her mouth the sheer emotion she poured into her music was enough to set my heart stirring.
I know I was only one girl sitting with one boy in the audience but Washington moved me like I have never been moved before. I cried through her entire first set of songs.
At Last my was complete undoing and right along with Peel Me A Grape, Blues in the Night and the heart break of You Don't Know Me left me shattered - but in a good way. It was so moving.
Washington's voice is unique, strong yet smooth and her dulcet tones are those of a familiar friend and a vamp. It's just amazing to me to watch the emotions wash over her lovely face in a very telling way and she connects to her audience by including them in her joys and triumphs, her sorrow and heart break.
Because the album is dedicated and created for her mother Barbara Washington, who was in the audience, there was a dialogue being carried on between the two of them and I don't mean emotionally. I mean they were talking to each other throughout the concert with Barbara sharing some sweet moments with the audience as well. It was great to be a witness to this tribute that honoured a mother well loved by her daughter.
Washington grew up in Prince George and moved to Victoria to further her career four years ago. Because of her strong connections to this town she returns often.
I must say Karel Roessingh the piano player that accompanied Washington was superb. He literally tickled the ivories and I finally got what that phrase meant. His fingers flew so quickly and the notes were so clear and crisp and I get it. He really did tickle the ivories.
Shawn Smith played saxophone and clarinet to lend a lovely tone to the songs. He seemed very experienced and was very good humoured when Washington got a bit playful with him, adding to the performance.
Washington gave the evening her all and left nothing undone. Her performance is something I will never forget and for her finale she chose Georgia because it reminds her of Prince George and finally, I was not alone with my tears. Several members of the audience joined me and I was so happy to see that.
So, Prince George music lovers, don't miss the next opportunity to hear Washington sing. She's coming back to town at the beginning of December.
I'll keep you posted on the details.
In the meantime check her out at http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington.
[Get Copyright Permissions] Click here for reuse options!
Copyright 2010 Glacier Media Inc.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Blues In The Night by Maureen Washington & Karel Roessingh
Courtesy of Shaw A&E.
Filmed at the Alix Goolden Hall ~ Victoria BC
Filming by Daniel Pender
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Filmed at the Alix Goolden Hall ~ Victoria BC
Filming by Daniel Pender
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Friday, October 15, 2010
Shan's Smiles & Winks: TI♥T 2: Being Wowed
Shan's Smiles & Winks: TI♥T 2: Being Wowed: "I've mentioned before my beautiful diva friend Maureen - I've been a fan since I first heard her sing when we were teenagers. Maureen transf..."
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Article From Focus Magazine
Maureen Washington ~ Photo by Dean Kalyan Focus Magazine November 20 & December 11 2014 JAZZ ALIVE! MAUREEN WASHINGTON ...
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