Kathy Kosins is a modern day legend of jazz
by Timothy Rowels, San Diego Gay & Lesbian News
From Motown to Tinseltown, Kathy has wowed audiences in her extensive career.
Kathy Kosins is no stranger to music. She has a fanbase which extends around the globe, and once you listen to her perform you will see why The Chicago Tribune called her “One of the most alluring voices in jazz.”
And why wouldn’t she be? She grew up in Detroit around the sounds of Motown. From the 80’s to the 90’s to today she has earned a place as one of the most sought after session singers of today.
From the east coast to the west, Kathy has left her audiences wanting more. And ASCAP recognized her with a songwriting award.
The daughter of a clothing store owner, Kathy was always visiting the most prominent artists in the music business,especially Motown legends.
“I remember when I was a little kid, my dad used to grab me and he’d say, let’s go for a ride and take mister Gordy his suits. We’d drive up Woodward Avenue to Boston or Chicago Boulevard area to Berry Gordy’s big, white mansion or we’d take clothes to Mayor Coleman Young. My dad sold clothes to pimps, politicians, entertainers, funeral parlors, when they had to bury somebody in a nice-looking suit, or if you were getting married, you got your suit at Kosins,” she said in an interview for Lydialiebman.com.
Kathy began arranging background vocals for producer Don Was in the early eighties. This experience led to gigs for both Carrere and later touring with Was/Not Was.
Perhaps one of her biggest albums, “Mood Swings” and later “Vintage” (2006) was applauded by music critics.
More recently, Kathy produced an homage to west coast artists in her album “The Ladies of Cool,” singing classic songs from legends June Christy, Chris Connor, Julie London, and Anita O’Day.
Along with making music, Kathy is also a gifted painter which she sometimes incorporates into her appearances.
“I paint the sounds that I hear,” said Kathy. “Strains from Miles Davis’ trumpet, Charlie Parkers’ sax and Bud Powells’ piano translate into color and texture. I never have an idea or color scheme in mind when I pick up a brush. I paint strictly from my intuition. It was no different with the old jazz masters. They could play endless solos all night, using the same form.”
If you are not already familiar with her music, this show would be a great time to get to know the artist and her body of work.
You can catch Kathy Kosins “Ladies of Cool” on June 13 at Martinis Above Fourth at 8 pm.
As a special bonus you can get two tickets for the price of one by using the code BOGO at checkout.
Martinis Above Fourth is located at 3940 Fourth Ave, San Diego, 92103
Get your tickets HERE.