American diva jazzes up Moscow
Published 17 May, 2008, 14:17
Nnenna Freelon, the renowned American jazz singer, has given her first ever performance in Russia. It was a night of nostalgia, with some classic jazz from the 1930s and 1940s including some of Billy Holiday's hits.
She only took up her career 18 years ago after spending years working as a hospital administrator. But she doesn't think that her non-music occupation was waste of time.
“Everything happened in divine time for me. When I was younger, my children were younger, I didn't have much time for music. Now we feel free and I tour a lot,” Nnenna says.
After her debut album in 1992 her brilliant voice placed her in the top echelon of jazz singers.
Later she worked with an array of the greatest jazz musicians including George Benson and Ray Charles. Now she dreams of performing around the globe.
“I plan to do a huge tour around Russia, not just cities but also small towns, as people there have a great appreciation for the music,” she says.
In the meantime, Nnenna is preparing to give performances in Milan and London.
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