Multi-Grammy Award winning vocalist/pianist Diane Schuur fashions new versions of songs for which she has a deep-rooted affection. “Running On Faith,” released by Jazzheads Music Group is co-produced by Schuur and Grammy winning saxophonist Ernie Watts. This project features music by some of her heroes; from Miles Davis to Carole King to Paul Simon to Percy Mayfield. “I’ve been focusing on the condition of our world, about what is, about what can be,” comments Schuur.
In contrast to prior recordings, Schuur performs on piano throughout, exhibiting her skills as an instrumentalist. Schuur tells a personal story with her first new recording in six years, demonstrating her deep knowledge of the blues and strength as a pianist.
Schuur is set to appear with her quartet at the Soka Performing Arts Center for a 3:00pm matinee on Sunday, February 26, 2023. The venue address is 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656. For Tickets:
https://www.soka.edu/soka-performing-arts-center/calendar-events/diane-schuur-running-faith.
Blind since birth, Diane Schuur was nicknamed “Deedles” by her mother. The Tacoma-born artist grew up steeped in jazz, courtesy of her parents’ record collection. She was officially discovered by jazz legend Stan Getz at the Monterey Jazz Festival in 1979. Honors include two Best Jazz Vocal Performance Grammy Awards for “Timeless” and “Diane Schuur and The Count Basie Orchestra,” both released by GRP Records, the label that launched her recording career. “Running on Faith” is the follow-up to her well-received “I Remember You: With Love To Stan and Frank,” her debut on Jazzheads (#JH1209) in 2014. Schuur’s deep catalog also includes projects for Atlantic, Concord and Vanguard.
Joining Ms. Schuur on stage will be two-time Grammy winning saxophonist Watts. At 16, Watts was a featured soloist with the Delaware Symphony. He won a Downbeat Scholarship to the Berklee School of Music in Boston and soon after was performing with Buddy Rich’s Big Band. After relocating to Los Angeles, Watts became a first-call soloist for countless studio sessions and was a 20-year staple in Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show band. He went on to perform with Quincy Jones, Lalo Schifrin, Henry Mancini, Oliver Nelson and Dave Grusin. The saxophonist was also a founding member of Charlie Haden’s Quartet West.
Schuur’s voice is bold and expressive, simultaneously romantic and mischievous, radiating soulful warmth. It all started very early in her life when she made her stage debut at ten years of age. Her success has led to collaborations with artists and producers such as B.B. King, Ray Charles, Dave Grusin, Stevie Wonder, Phil Ramone, and Maynard Ferguson. For “Running On Faith,” Schuur takes the reins, crafting a most personal statement.
Photo Credit: Soka University/ Diane Schuur/Jazzheads Music Group
