Grammy Award-winner and NEA Jazz Master Dee Dee Bridgewater is an eclectic force of Jazz, but it turns out she has some deep roots in Memphis, the “other” musical capital of Tennessee, . Home to Beale Street, Stax Records and Sun Studios, Memphis is the birthplace of the nittier grittier side American music, where some of the most iconic blues, rock, jazz and soul music has been created. Ms. Bridgewater was born in Memphis and her musician father was a DJ at local legend radio station WDIA, and a contemporary of fellow record spinner Rufus Thomas. Her performance at the Lobero Theatre last Friday was based on her new album “Memphis” which is a loving tribute to arguably the most important center of music in the USA, and features some of the classic hits of Gladys Knight and the Pips, Bobby blue Bland, Carla Thomas, Big Mama Thornton, B.B. King, Ann Peebles, Barbara Mason, Otis Redding, Elvis and The Staple Singers. With (unnecessary) apologies to her jazz fans, she gave a powerful and energetic performance backed by a tight and soulful band made up of Memphis musicians. One hot show!!!
