I do love me some lady who sings the blues, and this is one lady who can sing you some soulful blues.
Los Angeles based Janiva Magness is one of todays most talented and recognized blues and roots vocalists. A two-decade darling of the blues genre, Janivas vocal prowess is now being recognized by music critics at large. Billboard writes Magness carves out a niche by singing the blues with maturity and sophistication."
Singer Magazine writes Her voice is sultry, smoky and strong with jazz, blues, and soul textures enveloping it. Although her vocals are at times beautiful, this 49 year-old grandmother is best known for her sauciness and the bold, brazen beauty of her recordings and performances. In the liner notes of the new record Janiva pays homage to controversial and rule breaking women before her like Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith for fearlessly embracing their age, their sexuality, and truth.
Janiva was barely a teenager when she was consumed by the power and expression of rhythm and blues from the radio stations of her hometown of Detroit, Michigan. Janivas influences include Etta James, Billie Holiday, Elmore James, Robert Johnson, Aretha Franklin, Jackie Wilson, Memphis Minnie & Koko Taylor - some of whom she has since shared stages with and drawn comparisons. ...........more from jambaseI Won't Cry Jam Bits in Association with Alligator Records and Janiva Magness Presents: I Won't Cry - Janiva Magness (Feat. Dave Darling)
New Song Pre-Release Live JamBits Showcase Performance
Janiva Magness New Album Being Released March 13th by Alligator Records
Slipped, Tripped and Fell In LoveJaniva Magness - Vocals
Zach Zunis - guitar
Jim Alfredson - Hammond B3 / piano
Gary Davenport - bass
Matt Tecu - drums
This was recorded in Portland, Oregon [No sign of Darth Vader], Live at The Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival - 2010 A Benefit for The Oregon Food Bank
Walkin' in The SunDakota Jazz Club - Minneapolis, MN, 10/30/2010
Zach Zunis (Guitar)
Matt Tecu(Drums)
Gary Davenport (Bass)
Jim Alfredson (Keyboards)
