News
SYRACUSE JAZZ FEST
June 28th
Catch Freda Payne's captivating performance at
SYRACUSE JAZZ FEST
on June 28th!
Armory, Hanover & Clinton Squares, located at
117 South Salina Street, Syracuse, NY 13202,
-
For more information
Email: info@syracusejazzfest.com or call (315) 437-5627.
A Tribute Concert to Ella Fitzgerald
Join us for a night of timeless music and soulful tributes at 54 Below! On April 7th, 2024, don't miss Freda Payne's captivating performance, "A Tribute Concert to Ella Fitzgerald."
Get ready to be swept away by the mesmerizing melodies and soul-stirring vocals. Tickets range from $73 to $139 and include VIP seating options.
Don't wait, secure your seats now for an unforgettable evening!
54 BELOW
254 W 54TH ST. CELLAR, NYC 10019
TICKETS & INFO: (646) 476-3551 |
9th ANNUAL
GWEN LUMINARY AWARD
PRE-OSCAR EVENT
March 9th, 2024
6:30 - 10:30
Red carpet Award Entertainment Live Stream
LIVING LEGENDS AWARD
OPENING CEREMONY WITH MAYOR KAREN BASS & AUTORS STUDY CLUBS, INC
L.A. CITY HALL SOUTH LAWN
AFRICAN AMERICAN
HISTORY MONTH
FEBRUARY 2, 2024 - 11AM
Freda Payne Returns With A Love Song
About Her Long Distance Relationship
IT'S A GOLDEN PROMISES MIX!
Produced by Michael B. Sutton
“Just To Be With You”
OUT JANUARY 12th, 2024
Freda Payne pays tribute to the legendary Ella Fitzgerald,
as no one else can!
Don't miss the opportunity to host Freda Payne's Ella Fitzgerald Tribute at your venue. Elevate your audience's experience with an evening of timeless music, sophistication,
and the extraordinary talent of Freda Payne.
Contact us now to secure a date and bring the incomparable Freda Payne to your stage!
Hey everyone! Super stoked to share some exciting news! I'll be hitting the stage at Crossroads Theatre in New Brunswick, NJ Singing my heart out in a musical tribute to the amazing Ella Fitzgerald!
Come join me for an awesome night filled with incredible music and good vibes! See you there!
Don't miss the magic on Friday, February 16th, 2023, at 8:00 pm! Experience Freda Payne's soulful tribute to the legendary Ella Fitzgerald at Marin Center!
$60 VIP Seating offers the ultimate experience – First three rows, Champagne Toast, and Meet and Greet with Freda and Kenny.
$40 General Seating - Get ready for a night of incredible music! Customers can opt for champagne or bar drinks if they choose.
Freda Payne, known for hits like “Band of Gold,” alongside Kenny Washington, "the superman of the Bay Area jazz scene," will mesmerize you with Ella's classics! From “A Tisket, a-Tasket” to “Mack the Knife,” it's an unforgettable homage to Ella's legacy.
Critics raved: "Payne conjures Ella's spirit... she’s off the charts with Ella-tonian fever!" – New York Amsterdam News. Don't miss this incredible performance at Marin Center Showcase Theatre, San Rafael, CA 94903. Get your tickets now at
Join us for the 19th Annual Small Business Black Tie GALA Awards Dinner of Recognitions:
- Date: Friday, November 10th, 2023
- Location: Loews Hollywood Hotel Ballroom, Hollywood, California
- Red Carpet Welcome Reception: 5:30pm
- Black Tie Gala Awards Dinner: 7:00pm
What to Expect:
- Celebrating 23 years of community excellence.
- Recognizing outstanding small business contributions.
- An evening of elegance and community spirit.
- Open to all community members, business leaders, and supporters.
Ticket Purchase:
Secure your place by purchasing tickets GALA AWARDS DINNER Single TICKET - Regional Cal Black Chamber Commerce SFV (square.site)
Don't miss this extraordinary evening celebrating small business achievements and community excellence. We look forward to your participation.
🕖 The magic begins at 7:00 PM, so mark your calendars
for a night of nostalgia and celebration of one of the greatest voices in the history of jazz. Secure your tickets now at stocktonpac.org, and let's make memories together in the heart of New Jersey's vibrant music scene.
OCTOBER 14th
🎙️ Prepare to be swept away on a musical journey as I embark on an exhilarating rehearsal for my upcoming Ella Fitzgerald tribute show on October 14th at the Stockton PAC, NJ! 🌟 Immerse yourself in the timeless classics that defined an era and experience the magic of Ella's legendary voice brought to life.
🎵 Join me for an unforgettable evening filled with soulful renditions and the captivating melodies that continue to resonate through the ages. From the enchanting "Summertime" to the swinging "Mack the Knife," we'll traverse the iconic repertoire of the Queen of Jazz.
🎟️ Limited seats are available, so don't miss this opportunity to witness the essence of Ella Fitzgerald in a tribute that promises to be a musical spectacle like no other. See you there for a night of elegance, charm, and the timeless allure of jazz
Freda Payne & All The Jazz at Keystone Korner
Get ready for a soulful weekend of smooth jazz and mesmerizing melodies with Freda Payne & All The Jazz at Keystone Korner!
Join us this SATURDAY-SUNDAY, SEPT 30-OCT 1, for an unforgettable LIVE & ONLINE performance at Baltimore's very own JAZZ RESTAURANT BAR, Keystone Korner.
📅 When: Sept 30 - Oct 1
📍 Where:
Keystone Korner Baltimore
1350 Lancaster Street
Baltimore · Maryland 21231
410·946·6726
Don't miss out on this incredible musical journey! Reserve your spot now and let's groove together! 🎶
Freda Payne & Robert Shahid
I am thrilled to invite you to join me alongside the esteemed Robert Shahid for a special edition of WEAA's Master Class, airing on Wednesday, September 27th, from 1-2 pm. T.🎶
Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness Freda Payne's tribute to
Ella Fitzgerald scatting prowess live
on stage!
Date: July 22, 2023
Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM, Show starts at 8:00 PM
Location: Crown Uptown Theatre, 3207 E Douglas Ave, Wichita
Tickets are selling like hotcakes, so secure yours now! Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness Freda Payne's scatting prowess live on stage.
July 22, 2023
Looking for a night out in Wichita that's sure to be unforgettable? Look no further than Crown Uptown Theatre!
On July 22, 2023, we're thrilled to welcome a phenomenal performer to our stage, who will be paying tribute to one of the most iconic jazz singers of all time: Ella Fitzgerald. Freda Payne will be performing a selection of Ella's most beloved songs, showcasing her own incredible voice and paying homage to a true legend.
But the experience doesn't end with the show. Crown Uptown Theatre offers a truly special night out, with a stunning historic venue that's been beautifully restored to its former glory. Enjoy delicious food and drinks, take in the stunning architecture, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
So mark your calendar and get your tickets now for an unforgettable night at Crown Uptown Theatre with Freda Payne's tribute to Ella Fitzgerald!
📅 Mark your calendars: June 24th, 2023
Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience! Join us as soulful legends unite at the scenic LA County Arboretum. Freda Payne, conducted by Maestro Michael Feinstein, along with special guests, will bring the American Songbook to life!
📅 Mark your calendars: June 24th, 2023
⏰ Gates open at 5:30pm for picnicking
🎶 Concert begins at 7:30pm
📍 LA County Arboretum: 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, CA 91007
July 22, 2023
Looking for a night out in Wichita that's sure to be unforgettable? Look no further than Crown Uptown Theatre!
On July 22, 2023, we're thrilled to welcome a phenomenal performer to our stage, who will be paying tribute to one of the most iconic jazz singers of all time: Ella Fitzgerald. Freda Payne will be performing a selection of Ella's most beloved songs, showcasing her own incredible voice and paying homage to a true legend.
But the experience doesn't end with the show. Crown Uptown Theatre offers a truly special night out, with a stunning historic venue that's been beautifully restored to its former glory. Enjoy delicious food and drinks, take in the stunning architecture, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
So mark your calendar and get your tickets now for an unforgettable night at Crown Uptown Theatre with Freda Payne's tribute to Ella Fitzgerald!
FREDA PAYNE - Interview
Welcome to the news section of Freda Payne's website! In our latest feature, we dive into the world of the iconic "Band of Gold" singer and Motown songwriter, Freda Payne, alongside singer-songwriter and producer Michael B. Sutton.
We kick off the discussion by exploring the flip sides of Freda Payne's timeless hit "Band of Gold" and Thelma Houston's beloved track "Don't Leave Me This Way." These oldies but goodies provide a nostalgic backdrop for our conversation, which also delves into the exciting realm of new recordings.
Freda Payne rose to prominence with her chart-topping 1970 hit "Band of Gold" under the Invictus label, helmed by renowned songwriting team Holland-Dozier-Holland. Throughout the interview, we explore Payne's journey during her Invictus years, her admiration for the legendary Ella Fitzgerald's music, and her recent collaboration with actor and jazz pianist Jeff Goldblum on a new recording of a classic standard. Expect to uncover fascinating insights into Payne's musical evolution and her passion for creating timeless melodies.
Joining the conversation is Michael B. Sutton, an accomplished Motown songwriter who has worked with luminaries such as Michael and Jermaine Jackson, Thelma Houston, and more. After leaving Motown, Sutton continued his successful career, securing song placements with Anita Pointer and Dionne Warwick, among others. Notably, Sutton's latest single showcases his artistry as he collaborates with his wife Aneessa on a tender love duet, adding a personal touch to his already impressive repertoire.
Goldmine had the privilege of speaking with both Freda Payne and Michael B. Sutton for this two-part interview article. Stay tuned as we delve into the captivating stories behind their music, their creative processes, and their exciting ventures in the industry.
Watch the captivating video of Freda Payne's speech and immerse yourself in the magical world of music, recognition, and celebration. ✨
Let's come together and honor these remarkable women songwriters, creating a night to remember! www.womensongwritershalloffame.org
📅 WOMEN SONGWRITERS HALL OF FAME 2023
🌟Join us as Freda expresses her regrets for not attending due to a prior engagement with the Pasadena Symphony Orchestra, where the legendary Michael Feinstein will grace the stage! 🎶
Amidst her apologies, Freda is buzzing with excitement for this remarkable evening, promising an unforgettable experience. And guess what? Her sister, Sherry Payne, is receiving a well-deserved award!
Let's give a big round of applause to Sherry and congratulate her on this incredible achievement! 👏
Freda extends her gratitude to the nominees and presenters, recognizing their immense talent and dedication. She also takes a moment to acknowledge Janice and Vanessa, who have organized this extraordinary event, applauding them for their phenomenal work. 🙌
While Freda deeply wishes she could be there in person, she invites you to be a part of this special occasion. Don't miss out!
Are you a fan of Jeff Goldblum's signature jazz sound? Do you love hearing unique collaborations between iconic musicians? Then you don't want to miss out on Jeff Goldblum's latest single, "Lazy Afternoon," featuring legendary singer and actor Freda Payne. The track is the latest to be taken from Goldblum's upcoming EP, Plays Well With Others, which will feature a number of collaborations with talented artists.
In "Lazy Afternoon," Goldblum's long-time band, The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, and Payne create a smooth and laidback atmosphere. Payne's vocals perfectly complement the jazzy sounds of Goldblum and his band, as she sings
"It's a lazy afternoon/And the farmer leaves his reaping/And the meadow cows are sleeping/And the speckled trouts stop leaping upstream."
So what are you waiting for? Head over to https://jeffgoldblum.lnk.to/PlaysWellWithOthers right now to pre-order or stream the EP, and be among the first to enjoy this amazing musical journey. Trust us, you won't regret it!
"Do You Still Dream About Me" The Love Mix
Produced by Michael B. Sutton
Label:
The Sound of L.A.
Radio Request song soundofla12@gmail.com
BAND OF GOLD
A Memoir
With introduction by Mary Wilson of The Supremes
MARK BEGO
Band of Gold is the exciting story of singer and actress Freda Payne. While she is best known for her 1970 Number One hit "Band of Gold", and her 1971 Grammy nominated album, Contact, her story is an inspiring adventure, lived alongside the "who's who" of the show business world including Duke Ellington, Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Pearl Bailey, Omar Sharif, Quincy Jones, Liza Minneli, and Sarah Vaughn. Freda's compelling memoir is a celebration of a glamorous life well-lived
IN STORES NOW
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FREDA PAYNE - Digital Radio Tracker Charts
"Do You Still Dream About Me( The Love Mix) - January 14th
Excited to share that 'Do You Still Dream About Me' (The Love Mix) has reached
Top 200 with all major labels and artists at #88
Top 150 Indie chart #36
Top 50 R&B chart #40
Thank you all for your support and love!
Freda Payne (@Freda Payne) joins Michael Boswell for a conversation in which they discuss a wide array of topics, including growing up in Detroit, going to school with Lamont Dozier and singing with Duke Ellington and Pearl Bailey when she was just 17. Freda tells the story behind "Band Of Gold", her latest albums and her memoir "Band Of Gold".
Freda is probably the only person to have performed on both the Ted Mack Amateur Hour and American Idol, as well as the only one to have been in movies with Jerry Lewis and Eddie Murphy.
Visit Visit FredaPayne.com all things Freda. Follow Freda on Facebook- @IamFredaPayne, Twitter- @IamFredaPayne, Instagram- @IamFredaPayne and subscribe to Freda's YouTube Channel.
Sat, un18, 2022, :00
FREDA PAYNE - Live at Performance VIBRATO GRILL JAZZ
Showtime: 7:30pm
Nov 8th, 2022
2930 Beverly Glen Circle
Los Angeles, CA 90077
(310) 474-9400
Michael B. Sutton - Freda Payne - Mitchell Coleman Jr.
Are you ready for a musical treat for your end of summer musical palette?
Subscribe now: www.fredapayne.com
For my upcoming release "Do You Still Dream About Me"
with bass player Mitchell Coleman Jr.
Produced by Michael B. Sutton
Label:
The Sound of L.A.
Radio Request song soundofla12@gmail.com
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Hello Everyone!
I am very excited to announce the launch of my new merchandise store!
My first collection is inspired by my hit song "Band of Gold"!
This first collection is a cool 70s vintage retro style apparel art !
It is perfectly designed just for you and it will make a cool gift for your friends, family or yourself ;)
Subscribe now to my newsletter to get the special discount
Bill O'Connell - Radio Personality - WDCB, 90.9FM “Chicago’s Home for Jazz,”
will be playing "LET THERE BE LOVE" on WDCB's "New Vintage"
Sunday 7/10/22 at 6pm CENTRAL time on WDCB, 90.9FM in Chicago
and streaming worldwide at www.WDCB.org
'Chicago's Home for Jazz New Vintage Big Band Radio show streaming
"LET THERE BE LOVE" album at www.JazzRadioWETF.org
Sunday 7/10/22 at 11:00AM EASTERN time
Monday 7/11/22 at 6:00PM EASTERN time
Thursday 7/14/22 at 2:00AM EASTERN time
For voice-command devices, like Alexa, simply say: “Play WDCB.”
FREDA PAYNE in ELLA FITZGERALD
in "First Lady of Song"
August 18 - September 11, 2022
The Madison Theatre
FREDA PAYNE interview on KBLA1580 with TAVIS SMILEY
lick r
FREDA PAYNE interview on BLACK WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS MAGAZINE
THURSDAY, MAY 12
12:30pm PT
BLACK WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Zoom interview
Interviewer: Enisha Ligon Garrett – Publisher
FREDA PAYNE interview with Shronda Armstrong for the Geaux Queen TV Network.
FREDA PAYNE - Live Performance at CLUB ARCADA
Showtime: 8:30 PM
May 20 and MAY 21, 2022
Cost: $49
Club Arcada
105 E. Main St., St. Charles,IL.
I am excited to announce that I am collaborating with my music producer Michael B. Sutton The Sound Of La and bass player Mitchell Coleman Jr. for my next single!
It is a new version of one of my favorite song"Do you Still Dream About Me" by Nancy Wilson - It will be Out soon!
So please subscribe to my newsletter to be the first to get it!
Wishing you a great week-end!
Thank you!
FREDA PAYNE - Live at Perfromance VIBRATO GRILL JAZZ
Showtime: 7:30pm
March 24th, 2022
2930 Beverly Glen Circle
Los Angeles, CA 90077
(310) 474-9400
NAACP IMAGE AWARDS
OUTSTANDING JAZZ ALBUM - VOCAL
FREDA PAYNE
"LET THERE BE LOVE"
Duets with
Kenny Lattimore
Kurt Elling
Dee Dee Bridgewater
Johnny Mathis
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2022
8:00 PM (ET/PT) on BET
53rd NAACP Image Awards Show
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FREDA PAYNE - FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS PODCAST WITH ROBERT MILLER
On Robert Miller's Podcast -Freda Payne - “Band Of Gold” - I Talk About Berry Gordy, Motown, Hit Songwriters Holland-Dozier-Holland, And Her Amazing Career! Click on this link to listen
https://www.orindamovies.com/2813/EVENTS
FREDA PAYNE - Orinda Theater
Live at Orinda Concert Series is produced by Derek Zemrak, Michael Williams and Leonard Pirkle
Showtime: 5pm
Sunday, February 20
Orinda Theater
2 Orinda Theater Square
Orinda, CA 94563
(925)254-9060
One week from today! FEB 20 Live At the Orinda - Freda Payne! Get your tix now to see the NAACP IMAGE AWARDS and Grammy nominated music legend up close and personal at the historic Orinda Theatre. It's an evening you don't want to miss! When someone of Freda Payne's stature makes a rare concert appearance, you never know if other music legends may show up to experience her musical magic.
Tix/info: https://www.orindamovies.com/2813/EVENTS
FREDA PAYNE " LET THERE BE LOVE TOUR" - THE TRIPLE DOOR - Seattle, WA
Saturday, February 5, 2022 - 6:00 PM AND 8:30 PM
6pm Show: Seating and dinner service begins at 5pm {All Ages}
8:30pm Show: Seating and dinner service begins at 8pm {All Ages}
Saturday / February 5, 2022 @ 6pm and 8:30pm
216 UNION STREET - SEATTLE, WA 98101
TICKETS: ONLINE OR (206) 838-4333
FREDA PAYNE - Orinda Theater
Live at Orinda Concert Series is produced by Derek Zemrak, Michael Williams and Leonard Pirkle
Showtime: 5pm
Sunday, February 20
Orinda Theater
2 Orinda Theater Square
Orinda, CA 94563
(925)254-9060
Diva Confidential: Freda Payne Two Funny Mamas #87
Sherri and Kym are joined by "Band of Gold" singer, Freda Payne. The legendary entertainer shares stories about a near Motown signing, dating fellow celebrities, and the secret to her amazing longevity.
Two Funny Mamas is hosted by Emmy Award winning host, comic, actress and New York Times best-selling author Sherri Shepherd and host, comic, Emmy Award winning actress and author Kym Whitley. As powerhouse comediennes and longtime friends, Sherri and Kym have been making each other - and audiences around the world - laugh for more than 25 years. The duo joined forces in stand-up for their Ladies Night Out comedy tour, which played to sold out theaters and arenas across the country. Also, to the delight of their fans, since 2015, Sherri and Kym have shared their love of laughter as co-hosts of the #1 R&B syndicated radio program, “The Tom Joyner Morning Show.”
Sherri and Kym are once again blending their comedic power to deliver a podcast that speaks to culture, sisterhood, moms and working women everywhere. Nothing is off limits when these two funny ladies get together to talk about life, love, motherhood, singleness, relationships, dating, pop culture, sex [or the lack thereof!] and everything in between. Raw, unfiltered and funny. That's what audiences can expect when Two Funny Mamas, Sherri and Kym, get on the mic!
FREDA PAYNE - Orinda Theater
Live at Orinda Concert Series
produced by Derek Zemrak, Michael Williams and Leonard Pirkle
Showtime: 5pm
Sunday, February 20
Orinda Theater
2 Orinda Theater Square
Orinda, CA 94563
(925)254-9060
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Freda Payne will be reading excerpts from her book BAND OF GOLD
A Memoir
With introduction by Mary Wilson of The Supremes
Oscar’s in Palm Springs
Freda Payne will be reading excerpts
from her book
with co writer & Host Mark Bego
and will also be performing!
very limited tickets
So get them now!
December 10th Friday at 7pm 2021
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Freda Payne Performs on The View
Live from 66th Street in New York City, music legends Freda Payne surprise our Whoopi Goldberg for a special birthday celebration performing their classic ‘Band Of Gold’!
MORE FROM 'THE VIEW':
Full episodes: http://abcn.ws/2tl10qh
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Freda Payne Guest Appearance Thursday 9/23/21 8p ET 5p PT on JMS LIVE!
On this episode of The Jim Masters Show LIVE! television and radio personality Jim Masters chats with music legend, singer and actress Freda Payne.
JMS - Thursday September 23rd, 2021 - 8pm eastern / 5pm pacific.
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FREDA PAYNE - Catalina Supper Jazz Club - CD RELEASE PARTY - Oct 8-9 Fri & Saturday
Dinner 7:00 seating
Show 8:30pm
6725 Sunset Blvd la ca 90028
323-466-2210 and ticket web
JMS - Thusday September 23rd, 2021 - 8pm eastern / 5pm pacific.
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Freda Payne discusses new show 'A Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald' coming to Bucks County Playhouse
"Anybody that loves good music, the Great American songbooks, Bebop music, they will love my show," Payne said.
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Listen to Judy Carmichael's interview with
Freda Payne on www.jazzinspired.com
WWW.JAZZINSPIRED.COM
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FREDA PAYNE " LET THERE BE LOVE" - ALBUM - JAZZ WEEK Chart -#18
August 9, 2021 - WWW.JAZZWEEK.COM
"Let There Be Love" featuring duets with artists like Johnny Mathis, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kenny Lattimore, Kurt Elling.
The Soul Music Hall OF FAME
Freda Payne just inducted into The SoulMusic Hall Of Fame by popular vote online at SoulMusic.com in the category 'Lifetime Achievement'
FREDA PAYNE - CHANNEL 7 - ABC NETWORK with George Pennacchio
May 23, 2021 - 11pm PST
Freda's got a new Jazz album, featuring duets with artists like Johnny Mathis, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kenny Latimore, Kurt Elling.
Release Date: 2021-04-16
FREDA PAYNE - ALBUM
“Let There Be Love” - Ep
Traditional jazz album
Featuring Duets with:
Johnny Mathis-Dee Dee Bridgewater-Kurt Elling-Kenny Lattimore
“Let There Be Love” was produced by Rodrigo Rios, co-produced by Freda Payne and executive produced by James M. Goetz. It will be released in April 16th, 2021 via The Sound of L.A. Records with distribution, marketing and promotion handled by company proprietors Michael & Anissa Sutton.
JAMES MICHAEL-GOETZ AND ALAIN FRANKE MUSIC PROUDLY PRESENTS
Legendary Song Stylist FREDA PAYNE Returns w/ Star-Studded Jazz Duets EP Let There Be Love – Available April 16 (Pre-Order NOW)
(March 29, 2021 – Beverly Hills, CA) Triple-Threat vocal wonder Freda Payne returns from a 6-year sabbatical with her most star-studded Jazz vocal project yet, Let There Be Love. The 5-song EP - in the tradition of 10-inch shellac records from the golden years of jazz – is bubbling over with knockout performances highlighted by 4 duets with special guests who are not only stellar singers, they ALL exude sparkling chemistry with Ms. Payne. Recorded inside fabled Capitol Records Studio ‘A’ in Hollywood and officially releasing via The Sound of L.A. Records on Friday April 16 (pre-order sales are on now), this instant classic from Freda and company will surely be one of the finest Jazz Vocal projects of 2021.
With big band charts for 30-pieces by Grammy-winner Gordon Goodwin and production by Rodrigo Rios (Executive Produced by Michael Goetz for Alain Franke Music), no expense was spared to make Ms. Payne’s return a spectacular one. The first single (released in November) is a dream come true duet with Johnny Mathis on the George & Ira Gershwin gem “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” filled with sweetly flirtatious energy and the spirit of the singular Nelson Riddle. 2021 Grammy-winner for Best Jazz Vocal Album, Kurt Elling, swings in to join Freda on a rhapsodic scat symphony of Gershwin’s “Our Love is Here to Stay.” Freda has a field day with Michigan friend Dee Dee Bridgewater on the ingenious medley “Moanin’ n’ Doodlin’” which pairs up two lyricized jazz gems from the pens of piano greats Bobby Timmons (“Moanin’”) and Horace Silver (“Doodlin’”). Soul crooner Kenny Lattimore slides in next to Freda for a cool jazz meets mod-pop reading of the ol’ Nat King Cole hit, “Let There Be Love.” Finally, Ms. Payne trades scats solo with the band on the sassy “It’s Alright With Me,” delivering fans shades of Ella that served her well across the decades.
Though internationally renowned for her chart-topping 1970 Soul-Pop classic “Band of Gold,” Ms. Payne began her career in 1962 singing Jazz. She has since lent voice to everything from standards, R&B and Quiet Storm to Disco and Pop.
The last two decades have found Freda Payne firmly back home in Jazz. Her latest, Let There Be Love, will make lovers of the genre giddy - from vets to newbies
Release Date: 2020-12-04
FREDA PAYNE & JOHNNY MATHIS
“They Can’t Take That Away From Me”
(November 20, 2020 – Los Angeles) When Freda met Johnny – Freda Payne and Johnny Mathis, that is – chemistry and musicality abounded as they breathed delicious life into George & Ira Gershwin’s classic, “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” As tantalizing sneak peek evidence of Freda Payne’s first project since 2014’s acclaimed Come Back to Me Love, the sound of these legends’ voices together on one mic for the first time anywhere/anytime is a treat for the ears and hearts of all, arriving just in time to warm them for the holidays…a season of love, sharing and wistfulness as special for the singers as it is their ardent fans.
Producer Rodrigo Rios had the idea for Freda to cover “They Can’t Take That Away From Me” and to sing it as a duet with Mr. Mathis. He handled the business overtures himself and, once Mathis graciously accepted, Rios turned to Grammy-winner Gordon Goodwin to pen the arrangement and bring in his Big Phat Band to accompany them. Everything came together like hands in silk gloves – with charm and grace as the pair glided smoothly through the time-kissed melody.
“They Can’t Take That Away From Me” is a 1937 popular song with music by George Gershwin and lyrics by Ira Gershwin that went on to become a Jazz standard and a chestnut of The Great American Songbook. It was introduced by Fred Astaire in the film “Shall We Dance” singing on the foggy deck of a New Jersey to Manhattan ferry to Ginger Rogers who remains silent listening throughout. No dance sequence follows which was unusual for the Astaire-Rogers numbers (though they did dance to it later in their final/reunion musical, “The Barkleys of Broadway” for MGM in 1949). Subsequent recordings of note range from the groundbreaking Charlie Parker with Strings LP in 1950 to Frank Sinatra in 1954, and Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong in 1956.
Now Freda Payne and Johnny Mathis add their magical and heartwarming spin on the gem for a new generation to swoon over and enjoy!
“They Can’t Take That Away From Me” was produced by Rodrigo Rios, co-produced by Freda Payne and executive produced by James M. Goetz. It will be released in November via The Sound of L.A. Records with distribution, marketing and promotion handled by company proprietors Michael & Anissa Sutton.