Bio
DAVID RALEIGH won't tell you what era he's from. You'd have a hard time trying to guess it too.
On the surface, he exudes a romantic youthfulness — fresh faced and ready to entertain the world with his impeccable piano/vocal prowess. Look a little deeper, and it's clear that this New York City local has the 'old soul' songwriting sensibilities of some of the greatest performers of our time. Lauded as 'the Nat King Cole for a new generation' by Time Out magazine, David displays a rich level of emotion and musicality that seldom appears in today's musical landscape.
Originally born in Rochester, New York, David Raleigh moved to Seattle at the age of four where he began honing his newfound musical abilities. He grew up on a stable diet of classic soul and gospel music, was named a child prodigy in the 'Who's Who Book of Music', and received a scholarship to attend Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan. While still in his teens, a zealous young David was “discovered” and signed to cut his first record, aptly titled 'Totally Psyched'. ?is gospel-flavoured album showcased his stirring vocal abilities and, as a result, sent him packing on tour with Amy Grant, Sweet Comfort and ?e Archers.
Upon basing himself in New York City, David became a winner on the hit television show 'Star Search' and released his highly acclaimed second album, 'Never Alone'. His music then found its way to the screen, appearing in Disney/ABC's 'Alchemy' (Tom Cavenagh, Sarah Chalke) and in the German cult classic 'Kleine Heie', where he starred as himself. His songs also took him all across America, performing in numerous football stadiums and arenas to welcome home troops from the Gulf War.
By this stage, David's unmistakable sound positioned him as a mainstay in New York City's music scene, regularly performing at ?e Bitter End, Don't Tell Mama's, Joe’s Pub, ?e Friar's Club, Arci's Place and ?e Metropolitan Room. He also obtained exclusive extended engagements at Stringfellow's, ?e Supper Club, Tatou, the Waldorf Astoria, the Ritz Carlton and the Hotel Pierre. Inspired by the atmosphere of such venues, David's own vision for a late night fine dining restaurant opened in Greenwich Village to outstanding reviews. While short lived, ‘Club Raleigh at the Oaks’ successfully showcased his sense of design and musicality to the delight of critics, further thrusting him into the New York spotlight.
David Raleigh’s most recent outing 'Beginning Again' (2010), produced by Australian singer/songwriter Nathan Leigh Jones, caught the attention of fans both old and new with its slick piano-pop edge. ?e album's lead single 'I Do!' struck the right chord both online and on music television, joining VH1's general playlist and spending 10 consecutive weeks in Logo (MTV)'s top ten. ?e album was toured throughout Europe, Asia and Australia, culminating in the fulfilment of a life long dream — performing at the iconic Sydney Opera House. His eagerly awaited forthcoming release, further extending his soulful crossover into radio-friendly pop, is currently slated for late 2012.
While many artists would dream of a successful career in any one genre, David Raleigh is combining the best of both worlds. Highly regarded in traditional cabaret circles, yet flirting heavily with contemporary hit radio, David Raleigh's heartfelt music continues to cross musical boundaries and transport the listener to the passionate era of his youth.
So, what era was that exactly? Nice try. He's not telling.
• David Raleigh's latest album 'Beginning Again' is available now on iTunes.
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