Lunchtime Special: Shireen Francis
“Quite simply Shireen is one of the best British Jazz vocalists of this generation”
BBC Radio
Born in London of Jamaican and Goan heritage Shireen Francis learned her craft in Afro-Caribbean music, however, inspired by artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Marlena Shaw and Nancy Wilson she soon moved seamlessly in to a much more jazz-influenced repertoire. These days her performances are rich and varied, including her own jazz and world music-inspired originals. As Shireen says " Expect some swinging jazz, old school soul, soulful blues and gospel ballads with just a touch of the Caribbean...". Joining Shireen this afternoon will be Gunther Kurmayr-piano, Manuel Alvarez-bass, Dave Ingamells-drums and Josh Kemp-sax.
"Quite simply Shireen is one of the best British Jazz vocalists of this generation" BBC Radio; "A brilliant vocalist whose beguiling performance left me wanting more" Jazzwise; "A beautiful artist with real depth and heart" Jazz UK