Paula Ralph Birkett
New York City, New York, United States | INDIE
Music
Press
"On songs like "Testify" and "Awesome God", both singer and saxist, along with a sanctified rhythm section take the listener back to the real roots of jazz, the church, with electrifying grooves and passions."
George W. Harris, (Mar 01, 2009) - Jazz Weekly
I could only speculate that the intent of Birkett and Ralph-Birkett was to uplift and relax the listener's soul through their music. If that is in fact truth, they hit the bulls-eye! Even if you don't normally listen to Gospel music don't shy away from this CD, there is more than enough to satisfy and excite any Jazz lover. This is an excellent recording that any listener will love.
- Jazz Improv NY Jazz Guide
At first glance we thought this was just another sax smooth jazz CD. But Tyrone's introductory notes on track #1, "Testify" had a sharp punch along with a solid groove. Then Paula Ralph-Birkett started singing and we knew that this album warranted serious listening! Paula sings on 8 of the 12 songs and her voice is buttery smooth. Furthermore there is a spiritual message being delivered here. We think this has to be one of the best spiritual albums of the year!
- O's Place Jazz Newsletter
"...Abundant Life, and the lush voice of Ralph-Birkett is a pure joy. With the emotion that she puts into her singing one is pulled into the music to the point that you almost have the feeling that you are sitting in the same room with her, hanging on every word and phrase."
- Jazz Improv Magazine
Discography
FEARLESS (I Got Somewhere to Be) digital single by Paula Ralph-Birkett
In the Fullness of Time by The Tyrone Birkett Group feat. Paula Ralph-Birkett (LP)
Ain't No Runnin' Away by Willy Washington presents Paula Ralph (single)
Photos
Bio
With the sweet sound of soul, the power of gospel, and the influence of jazz, singer/songwriter Paula Ralph-Birkett embarks on her debut project entitled Decisions. She was most recently the featured vocalist in the Tyrone Birkett Group's (TBG) progressive Gospel Jazz offering In the Fullness of Time. But now she has a few words to say of her own.
Paula began her professional career in musical theater working in regional theaters throughout the New York Tri-State area. She developed her vocal production and songwriting ability performing both R&B and Dance/House music, including the dance single Ain’t No Runnin' Away, produced by Willy Washington. Paula also sang as a featured vocalist in several gospel groups/choirs, and toured with them in London, England and Verona, Italy. She also performed and has written dramatic presentations and spoken word in the New York Metro area. As she grew musically, her studies with Kevin Fitzgerald Burke and Jay Clayton gave her vocal interpretation a jazz perspective.
Paula’s influences are many, including Luther Vandross, Phyllis Hyman, Rachelle Ferrell, Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway, Bobby McFerrin, Tramaine Hawkins, and Dianne Reeves, to name just a few. Paula says, “What attracts me to vocalists is their ability to tell a story. Like modern day griots their musicianship and interpretation has the potential to connect the listener to the story indelibly.” Paula demonstrates that ability on several tracks of TBG’s In the Fullness of Time. However now she is telling her own story. "I love working with TBG. Working with them continues to help me define my voice and my perspective" says Paula. "For me it's all about the melody and story of the song. And there have been stories I've wanted to tell for a while. Only now have I found the courage and joy to say it."
Paula continues to grow as a storyteller. Fearless, the first single from the Fall 2010 release Decisions, is an expression of her development as a songwriter and vocalist. “I’m really excited about the project,” Paula says, “because I hope to illuminate how life is created by the decisions we make... or don't make.” Paula delivers this project with sweet soul, powerful truth, and pure joy.
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