Before scripting any thoughts I went searching for the definitive definition of the word “diva”. My two desktop dictionaries, Firefly pocket guide and Random House - both spell out two words, “ prima Donna.” That’s all? With that in mind I thought possibly an opera connection might shed more light so I scanned the Harvard Dictionary of Music. Nothing! Instead, I’m coming to this with an open mind and years accompanying some very fine singers who in there own right were bona fide divas.
The past few years I’ve had the good fortune to play behind several contemporary Canadian jazz singers now paving the way for future hopefuls. Carol Welsman and Dawn Aitken have entered what I call tier two – both are energetic, fiercely independent, adamant about getting the right performance from themselves and those around, and bold enough to sink their own dollars into the vision much like Betty Carter and Blossom Dearie who both designed and produced their music, later, releasing on their own record labels. Carol and Dawn have both been able to find a larger audience through touring and airplay.
That’s brings me to the concept behind Real Divas.
A few years back the idea of producing a compilation of independent female vocalists could only be a spotty proposition at best. Now we have strong representation from all regions of the country. Jesse King has been carrying an extensive catalog of independent singers at jazzpromo.com. It just so happens that several of the young women included are part of the highly successful Tuesday night showcase ‘Real Divas’ at RD’s in Toronto. Each week singers are presented in classy surroundings and encouraged to exhibit their talents to an audience comprised of other like-minded professional women and appreciative men.
Jesse and I with the support of RD’s thought it was imperative to create an introductory compilation for those of you who sometimes find it difficult locating recorded music from the “new voices.” “Torch Light” features fourteen vocal performances stretching from Montreal to Vancouver. Everyone knows who Diana is so we want you to hear Melissa, Alex, Beverley, Sara, Leah, Emile, and the rest. The common thread between each singer is the intimacy of the performance and sensuous manner in which they communicate a lyric. There are no overblown histrionics or pointless scatting. Just the voice, personality – the words, and a feeling each has just dropped by to sing for you. “Torch Light” is the inaugural release for newly formed 7 Arts Entertainment.
Bill King
