Grammy-Winner Catherine Russell to Unveil Rare Jazz-Blues Gems at Bansko

Kaloyan Kirilov

Singer Katherine Russell gives a press conference at the Nikola Vaptsarov Community Centre, Bansko, August 3, 2025 (BTA Photo/Krasimir Nikolov)

Bansko, Southwestern Bulgaria,

03.08.2025 19:48

(BTA)

A blend of jazz and blues is on the programme for the Bansko Jazz Festival on Sunday, when Grammy-winning vocalist Catherine Russell appears with her trio. The set features rarely heard pieces by leading jazz and blues figures, alongside songs long included in her live shows yet never recorded.

Speaking at a press-conference before her performance, she said that music runs in her family. Russel's father, Louis, moved from Panama to New Orleans at 17, led several orchestras and served as musical director for Louis Armstrong. Her mother, Carline, grew up in Harlem, graduated from a prestigious music school and toured the world with The International Sweethearts of Rhythm. “It was obvious that music was the only thing I could do,” Russell said.

After years as a sought-after studio vocalist, with credits on more than 200 albums including work with David Bowie and Steely Dan, bassist Earl May encouraged her to pursue jazz. A later tour with Bowie prompted her partner and manager to steer her towards a solo career, which has produced seven albums, two Grammy nominations and a Grammy Award for her work on the soundtrack to Boardwalk Empire.

Russell manages headline tours alongside backing vocal roles and orchestral performances, appearing at major festivals around the world. Music allows her to travel globally, which is one of the reasons she loves her career. Contemporary jazz, she added, is in good hands thanks to many young musicians who are already dedicated and highly talented.

/KT/