Programme:
Songs by Kandace Springs, Roberta Flack, Stevie Wonder et al. (arrangements: Vince Mendoza)
Not every singer can claim that Prince, who died in 2016, was their mentor, but Kandace Springs can! In 2014, the grand master discovered her cover of Sam Smith’s »Stay with Me« online and raved: »Kandace has a voice that could melt snow«. The head of »Blue Note« was equally enthusiastic, signing the young singer to the label soon after and producing her debut album »Soul Eyes« (2016). On this and subsequent albums, Kandace Springs’ talents really come to the fore: the artist, born in Nashville in 1989, has a remarkable alto voice ranging from smoky and sultry to soft and soothing. Although she describes Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Roberta Flack and Norah Jones as her heroes, she has her very own style, giving their songs completely new and personal interpretations. Kandace Springs already knows the WDR Big Band, a mainstay in the music industry for decades now, and its 1st Guest Conductor and »Composer in Residence« Vince Mendoza, from their joint performances before the pandemic. We are delighted that they are reuniting for our festival!
WDR Big Band
Kandace Springs vocals and piano
Vince Mendoza conductor
