All Their Jazz

Though jazz has its roots in the US,“it was never appreciated there as it originated in the African-American community,” adds Harriet Lewis,the ‘second lady of blues’. “Ever since we formed the band in 2001,we have been honouring the women who,in the late 1800s and early 1900s,planned their own shows,sang their own songs,made their costumes,hired musicians and recorded their music,” Faulkner adds.

For the three ladies,jazz is more than just music. “It is about the Black feminist revolution. Our music tells the history of blues singers and Black women,” says Lewis. The trio does not believe in any musical boundaries or categories. “Our music is about blues and jazz. We are inspired by the gospel,” adds the third lady of blues,Joanne Bell. Their work is influenced by spiritual,ragtime,traditional blues and classical musical genres.

The group came together after Bell did a project,Bessie & Billie,with Cynthia Utterbach who was also a part of the band till 2004. The project was a tribute to blues singers,Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday.

The ladies have always been inspired by African American singer Linda Hopkins. “We are all daughters of our dear mama,Hopkins,the last great blues singer alive,” says Lewis.

Their stage performances are always high on energy and their foot-tapping numbers delight all. “The younger generation likes rhythm and beats that they can move to. We see more youngsters in our shows,especially in Europe,” says Faulkner.