Talent, real talent, just doesn't happen. It developes. Over years. Through generations. With hard work. With experience. And when it arrives, you can't help but notice it. Say hello to real talent, Say hello to Gradie Stone.
Gradie comes from a musical and show business family. Her dad Kirby led the very successful Kirby Stone Four through the 1950's and 60's. They recorded on Columbia Records, appeared on many national TV shows, and played every major nightclub coast to coast. Along the way, when Gradie was just a year old, they grabbed a Grammy nomination with their gold selling hit "Baubles, Bangles and Beads". Gradie's mom Julie also sang professionally, and handed Gradie a microphone as soon as she could speak. It shows. And now, after twenty years in the business, after twenty years of rock bands, R&B bands, country tunes, radio commercials, Atlantic City and Vegas, Gradie has finally come home. Home to jazz. Home to standards.
The rhythm section is anchored by the great Joe Cucuzzo on drums. Joe's credits, while too numerous to list, do include a ten year stint with Tony Benett, as well as his current employment with Rosemary Clooney. The man is a player's player, He defines swing. The piano playing of Michael DiLorenzo is equally wonderful. Mike and Gradie have performed together in many different contexts over the years, and their sensibility and musicality mesh together beautifully. The section is rounded out with the great sound and thoughtful lines of Brian Glassman on bass. George Young is Gradie's guest soloist on saxophone. Another industry heavyweight, (many of you have heard him for years in the Saturday Night Live Band) George brought immense talent and experience to the project. HIs solos are works of art.
The final song on this recording ia a little known but gorgeous ballad, "My Favorite Year". When you're done listening to this CD, this will be one of your favorite years too. Because this is the year you were introduced to Gradie Stone.
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