Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan and raised in Romulus, Michigan, Barbara Morrison recorded her first appearance for radio in Detroit at the age of 10. Well known in the Los Angeles area for her duo and trio dates Ms. Morrison also tours extensively, blazing a trail as a Jazz and Blues legend in her own right across the Continental United States, Western Europe the Far East and "Down Under, ' wowing audiences with her band.
Fresh off a 33 US City tour, co-headlining in an all-star tribute to legendary composer Harold Arlen (most recognizable for his genius behind the music for the classic film, The Wizard of Oz), Barbara now celebrates her 30th year in the music industry. Over the years she has performed with a virtual "who's who" of the Jazz and Blues worlds. That list includes legends Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Charles, James Moody, Ron Carter, Etta James, Esther Phillips, David T. Walker, Jimmy Smith, Johnny Otis, Dr. John, Kenny Burrell, Terence Blanchard, Joe Sample, Cedar Walton, Nancy Wilson, Mel Torme, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, and Keb' Mo. Additionally, Ms. Morrison guest stars with the Count Basie Orchestra, the Clayton-Hamilton Orchestra and Doc Severinsen's Big Band.
The dazzling Barbara Morrison has been featured on over 20 recordings. She has enthralled fans with a wide array of genres from traditional Jazz and Blues to Gospel and Pop. Her melodic voice--with two-and-a-half-octave range--is known worldwide. As are her rich, unique, soulful and highly spirited interpretations of both, familiar Jazz and Blues classics and original contemporary tunes. Equally as striking is Ms. Morrison's ability to belt out down-home, soul-stirring Blues. Her impassioned renditions of old and favorite torch songs are nothing short of breathtaking.
In addition to her multiple solo recordings, fans have experienced the pleasure of Barbara Morrison's silky and vibrant tones on such notable film and television appearances as; the movie sound track for The Hurricane (starring Denzel Washington), Goin' Home: A Tribute to Duke Ellington and Johnny Otis' CD "Ooo Shoo Be Dooo". Additional credits include the hit NBC TV comedy’ The Naked Truth’, the ‘Tonight Show with Jay Leno’ and ‘The Dennis Miller Show’.
In additional to her gigs with other Jazz and Blues groups and legends, Barbara Morrison also performs at the more renowned Blues and Jazz Festivals around the world. Her many outstanding appearances, including those at Montreaux, Nice, Pori, Carnegie Hall, North Sea, Monterey, Long Beach, as well as her ‘Salute to Dizzy Gillespie’ and her ‘Tribute to Benny Golson’. These are fondly remembered by Morrison fans who return again and again to share her rare, unique and exceptional vocal gifts.
For more information go to www.barbaramorrison.com
JazzReview.com
