I was overjoyed when La Velle agreed to embark on this recording project . She had not recorded a solo album since 1992 and I felt it was definitely time for her to explore new material and to share her great and incredible talent and life with the world.
La Velle began studying piano and voice at an early age and she honed her talent in night clubs and piano bars in Chicago and Las Vegas. She has worked and recorded with Ray Charles, Nicole Croisille, Eddie Harris, Michel Legrand, Steve Lacy, Kirk Lightsey, Dado Maroni and Archie Shepp.
I first met La Velle in Paris in 1982 and we have worked together ever since. I can not believe it , we will celebrate our 20th anniversary next year. I have been involved in her Jazz projects, her Blues & Funk Bands and her Gospel Group with Jerome Van Jones & Alex Sanders and she is always amazing.
"SPECIAL" is an album that truly brings out the very best of La Velle, there are 4 jazz standards ("Blue Monk", "Who Can I Turn To", "I Got It Bad (And That Aint Good)" and "My Favorite Things") & 6 originals ("Blue Bolero", "Special", "Napoli", "Dimensions", "Jo & James", "Auburn Prive" ).
Just ask "Q", Herbie Hancock, Manu Katche or Shirley Bassey and they will all tell you "This Lady can do it all". Sangoma EVERETT http://store.harmoniamundi.com/la-velle-special.html
