By Justin Kantor, SoulTracks (February 11, 2020) Robin McKelle has spent the past two decades exploring the vast vocal terrains of jazz, soul, and the American songbook. On her ninth album, Alterations, the internationally renowned singer-songwriter delves into the works of female greats ranging from Billie Holiday to Janis Joplin and Dolly Parton. The first … Read More
Howard Dukes, SoulTracks “I Can’t Breathe,” the absolutely stunning lead single from Vivian Sessom’s upcoming album Life II, references the final words said by Eric Garner in 2014 when he was placed in a fatal choke hold while being arrested by police for illegally selling cigarettes. However, the mixture of blues and gospel does not tell the … Read More
By Howard Dukes and Chris Rizik, SoulTracks (April 26, 2019) Music is the family business for vocalist Vivian Sessoms. Her mother Sharmaine Sessoms worked as a jingle and session singer in the 1960s and 70s, and her father, Lemuel Smith, served as flutist and percussionist for James Brown. Oh, and the late, great Nancy Wilson was … Read More
