A Grammy Winner Salutes a Jazz Legend at the Brooklyn Center

May 4, 2017 by Dominique M. Carson

Patti Austin / photo courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

The Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts’ 2016-2017 season has been a memorable one, filled with everything from international dance troupes to jazz greats to acrobats and children’s theater. One of the true highlights took place April 22 as Grammy Award-winning jazz singer Patti Austin paid homage to the late Ella Fitzgerald. Austin’s “Ella Now and Then: A Centennial Celebration of the First Lady of Song” celebrated Fitzgerald’s 100th birthday (she was born April 25, 1917). Austin also performed songs from her own forthcoming album, Ella: Now & Then – the follow-up to her 2002 Grammy-nominated album, For Ella.

Audience members were enthralled by Austin as she sang several Ella Fitzgerald standards, including “Mack the Knife” “April in Paris,” “Sing Me a Swing Song,” and “Lullaby of Birdland.” This show was also a history lesson for those not quite familiar with either jazz or the legendary singer. Austin kept the crowd entertained as she talked about intricate moments of Fitzgerald’s life as a vocalist. From her presence on stage, audience members could sense the respect and admiration that Austin has for Fitzgerald’s phenomenal voice and her contributions to music.

The following Saturday the Center presented the Dallas Children’s Theater production of Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale. Parents were able to take their kids or loved ones to this family-friendly production, which is a musical adaptation of Brooklyn native John Steptoe’s award-winning children’s book of the same name.

Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters / photo courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

The Center, which in November hosted a cabaret show by East New York’s own Tony Danza, will present Chaka Khan on May 13 – her first appearance in our borough since she opened the 2015 Celebrate Brooklyn! season.

Artists on our Radar

Jessi Robertson: A Voice for the Vulnerable

Jessi Robertson-Memory and Abandoned Parts Album Art

Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

... read article