The Rodric White Septet ft. singer, Simone Waddell – Saturday, 6th of March 2021:
The Rodric White Septet featuring singer Simone Waddell present an evening of music celebrating the inspiring legacy of Billie Holiday (17th April 1915 – 17th July 1959), American jazz musician and singer/songwriter with a career spanning nearly thirty years.
Nicknamed ‘Lady Day’ by her friend and music partner saxophonist Lester Young, Holiday had a seminal influence on jazz music and pop singing. Billie pioneered a new way of manipulating phrasing and tempo. Her vocal style has strongly inspired generations of jazz singers and instrumentalists.
Rodric White’s Septet features the elegant vocals of Simone Waddell performing songs from Lady Day’s Early Years: ‘Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans’, ‘The Man I Love’, ‘All Of Me’, ‘Body & Soul’, ‘Them There Eyes’, What A Little Moonlight Can Do’, ‘I Cover The Waterfront’, ‘Lover Man’, ‘God Bless The Child’ and many more.
Line-up includes:
- Simone Waddell: Singer
- Rodric White: Pianist/music director & arranger
- Ralph Pyl: Trumpet
- Jason Morphett: Tenor saxophone
- Danny Carmichael: Trombone
- Peter Kohlhoff: Acoustic bass
- Steve Ley: Drums
‘Passionate performances of songs associated with the marvellous Billie Holiday made for a great night’s entertainment at Foundry 616. Rodric White’s arrangements allowed the talented seven-piece band to display their considerable skills allowing the musicians to entertain and display their skills as soloists and as an ensemble. The show and venue are both recommended.’ – Mark Pigott (Sydney Arts Guide 15th September 2018)
