Hybrid Jazz From Trish Hennessey - with Oleta Adams!

This Lady.  THIS Lady.  Let your show host catch her breath.  Oleta Adams has meant MUCH to a LOT of fans and friends.  We knew her from the 1990 release, "Circle of One."  You may or may not know this - but "Get Here" was the unofficial anthem of the Gulf War.  It made both Oleta and the writer, Brenda Russell, proud :)  

The roots of this amazing vocalist, musician, composer and producer are solidly in the Church.  Dad was a minister and little Oleta sang at Pilgrim Rest Baptist.  The Pacific Northwest was our guest's upbringing - and she thrived there.  By 11, Oleta was directing four choirs.  She has already established herself as a piano prodigy.  This was observed by more than a few. She had strong mentorship in junior high and became the star of "Hello Dolly" in her corner of the world.  As Ms. Adams has said: "Early on, I realized the pleasures of being a big fish in a small pond."  

The shorter version of a splendid novel: Oleta turned down a career in opera AND a scholarship.  Instead, she opted for a Summer in Europe and a move to L.A.  The early 70's, however, were not kind to those with Gospel-drenched power in their throats - it was the Disco Era.  At the urging of a superb vocal coach and friend, Oleta moved to Kansas City and blossomed as she never imagined.  A regular gig at the Hyatt Regency brought Legends to see her.  Talk about a great reputation - this wonderful artist has that to spare :)  If you could talk to Luther Vandross, he'd tell you.  Phil Collins and Michael Bolton would say the same.  And Roland Orzabal & Curt Smith more than any two people on earth.  They saw Oleta one night in K.C. - and ALL of their lives changed.  We'll talk about the Tears For Fears connection on 2/20/2017.  Join us!