Louise Parker Quartet - Nina Simone Tribute

Nina Simone epitomised the age from the close of the 1950s through 1966; a brief time curtained by thought and action, political statement and artistic expression. If there is one singer whose music reflected and still resonates with the sophistication and spirit of that era, it is Nina Simone. Her sound channeled the emotional spark of the day; her vibrato-rich voice (childlike at times, deep and wise at others) reflected its innocence; her piano virtuosity elevated it with an air of elegance; her lyrics and song choices satisfied a need for intelligent social commentary.

Louise Parker has been a great admirer of her work for many years and in this concert she wants to pay tribute to this great artist, and her life and times.

In 2006, Louise was tipped by Evening Standard critic Jack Massarik as the most promising new jazz singer and she didn’t disappoint with more performances at Pizza on the Park.

She has performed with BBC Jazz Award winner, saxophonist Alan Barnes and performed and recorded with the late Humphrey Littleton. She has appeared at notable venues across the country including Hammersmith Apollo, Glastonbury Festival, Pizza Express Dean Street, Pizza on the Park Hyde Park Corner, Isle of Wight International Jazz Festival, Keswick Jazz Festival and the Port Eliot Festival.

“A splendid new voice on the block…. Swings like fury.” Humphrey Lyttelton

“There’s no substitute for good time and tone… Tender or wild, her voice never lost its warmth and her phrasing had an in-built propulsion rarely heard from others.” Jack Massarik, London Evening Standard

“I don‘t think I‘ve heard a better jazz voice in this country.” Blues and Soul Magazine

“A totally genuine jazz performer…a perfect lesson in feeling and phrasing.” The Jazz Rag

“Sweetly soulful jazz vocals.” Jazzwise Magazine

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