A Few Thoughts on Paula West

Why is Paula West my favorite singer on the planet?

The word, “timeless” comes to mind.

There is no one that honors the past, celebrates the present and remains on the cutting edge of the future of jazz like Paula. She is as at home singing Ira Gershwin as she is singing Bob Dylan.

She breaths fresh life in to the music of Cole Porter and pays long overdue tribute to Jimmy Webb.

You see, for Paula, The Great American Song Book is an open one, a collection that grows with each generation of lyrists.

Her arrangements are stunning and unique.

In an industry that lives on remakes and replays, Paula, more than anyone, continues to make a song her own.

Listen to her version of “Wichita Lineman,” for me; it was as though I was hearing it for the very first time.

If tonight you'll be hearing Paula for the first time … how I envy you. Listening to her beautiful voice is like hearing Ella or Sarah in the prime of their careers.

Confident, strong voiced and mesmerizing, I can think of no better way to end this very special year for us here at Jazz on the Plazz.

So grab the hand of someone you love and perhaps move just a bit closer. As we welcome back someone that we love … its primetime.

Jazz tonight … jazz tomorrow.