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In Celebration of International Jazz Day, Catching up with Portuguese Jazz Artist, Sofia Hoffmann

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Back in 2011, jazz legend Herbie Hancock’s Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz was instrumental in presenting the idea before the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization that April 30 forever be celebrated as International Jazz Day. A few years later, in 2018, I had the great fortune of vacationing in Portugal, where, for the first time in my life I witnessed first-hand the true global impact of jazz while attending a performance by Portuguese jazz artist Sofia Hoffmann. I was immediately struck by Hoffmann’s ability to fuse a multitude of musical styles as she performed in Portuguese and English everything from jazz and American Songbook vocal standards to pop, contemporary and even tunes with hints of India.

In the years since first being introduced to Hoffmann by friends who divide their time between the U.S. and Portugal, I’ve gotten to know her as a friend and have grown to truly admire her as an artist, so what better way to celebrate International Jazz Day than with a quick catch-up.

“Despite being quite young compared to other ancient musical movements and traditions, jazz is one of the most transversal and richest music genres worldwide. The improvisation is one of the main aspects characterizing it, and in my opinion, this kind of musical freedom and uniqueness in every performance shall be celebrated as a symbol of free self-expression,” said Hoffmann, who’ll be performing a jazz standard during a nationally televised Portuguese program celebrating and exploring the history of jazz in Portugal, that will also focus on international highlights and personalities from the world of jazz.

Hoffman, who recalls first listening to jazz as a teen, by way of her Brazilian aunt and various friends’ parents playing records, cites Ella Fitzgerald as the jazz artists she was first acutely aware of. “Ella Fitzgerald was and still is my main reference as the original, or traditional jazz singer and scatter,” remembered Hoffman. “Ella inspired me through her various skills, not only in terms of her vocal pitch range, but also and mostly through her creativity while scatting and improvising. Her creative vocal process not only includes traditional improvisation, but also frequently surpassing them, allowing Ella to perform based on unique and unexpected melodic structures and compositions.”

Continuing her thoughts on Fitzgerald, Hoffman elaborated saying, “Her attitude on stage throughout her career was notable, presenting herself in a free-flowing, transparent manner, sharing all the emotions which she’d work out during a standard interpretation, yet always elegant and with a smile to the audience in the end.”

Hoffmann’s other early influences are a who’s who of jazz greats including such luminaries as Sara Vaughan, Etta James, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Chet Baker and more contemporary artist like Nancy Wilson, Miles Davis, Ahmad Jamal and Diana Krall—giving special mention to Krall’s 2002 Live in Paris.

As for more personal influences, Hoffman’s own background studying jazz as a performer, includes its own list of high-profile entertainers, first in Milan with renown Italian jazz vocalist, Laura Fedele, then back in her native Portugal studying alongside Portuguese vocalist Maria João,

“I recall the day of the audition with Laura, as she was selecting the students for the her masterclass. She asked me to sing specific melodies she’d play on the piano, and the ended up saying “you should definitely sing jazz”. That worked as a boost to me in my jazz learning process, and it was certainly a good official start within my singing career.”

Of her time with João, Hoffmann enthused, “I had a willingness to step deeper into the jazz field and connected with the great Maria João, who was at the time THE reference in terms of vocal jazz performance in Portugal. I did interesting work with her not only in terms of the vocal technique but most of all, in regard to my own individual interpretation of the standards. Also the importance of physical posture on stage, and being aware of our full body as an instrument (not just our vocal chords, diaphragm and lungs!). We are still in contact and shared the stage recently during the All That Jazz musical event here in Lisbon last February, which was a great joy.”

While Hoffmann’s style is indeed steeped in jazz, the above-mentioned willingness to go deeper is evident in the many musical styles she incorporates into her work. Prime examples, her 2019 debut album, One Soul and her 2022 follow-up, Rebirth, produced by Grammy-winner John Beasley. Rebirth contains a truly enchanting cover of Nat King Cole’s classic Nature Boy, but with a decidedly Indian melodic twist. Pointing out the unexpected similarities between jazz and Indian music, Hoffmann revealed, “Interestingly, you find a similar kind of improvisation, although with slightly more strict rules, within the Indian Classical taans (improvised rapid melodic passages). You also have to keep in mind the main harmonic structure while improvising, and this again applies to both jazz and Indian Classical music.”

Hoffman’s earlier mention of her recent All That Jazz collaboration sparked mention of upcoming performances. “I’ll be singing as a soloist with The Lisbon Swingers orchestra during 2 concerts scheduled for the month of June. Performing with big bands…something I love doing!”

In additional to her upcoming live gigs, Hoffmann is hard at work on a new album. When asked for details, Hoffmann teased, “What I can tell you is that I’m back to my original songs. I may also share with you that I’m working with an outstanding internationally renowned producer and musician, who is collaborating with me on this album. It will be a surprise! We are working towards releasing it this year on an international level, including the USA, and it will deliver heartfelt messages to which, I believe, many can relate. And you’ll be one of the first to know about it.”  

To keep up with Hoffmann’s tour schedule and upcoming new music releases, check out her Official Site, or follow her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music.

Interested in coverage for your latest entertaining endeavor? Click the contact page and drop me a note. You can also follow JHP Entertainment on Instagram and Facebook. In the meantime, #GoSeeTheShow!

 

Rapid Fire 20Q with ‘Variety on Main’ co-hosts Mandy Barnett and Monica Ramey; monthly showcase of seasoned performers and newcomers continues at Franklin Theatre Monday, March 18

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Variety on Main, a new concert event happening on the third Monday of each month at The Franklin Theatre (419 Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064) showcases seasoned performers as well as rising talent. Co-hosted and co-created by Mandy Barnett and Monica Ramey, two truly gifted vocalists, as the event title suggests, Variety on Main showcases and celebrates a variety of not only music genres, but a wide-range of talent. The upcoming March 18 Variety on Main at The Franklin Theatre continues that concept by including performances by Carlene Carter, Becky Isaacs Bowman, The Rakish Paddys, Gretchen Peters, Blue Mother Tupelo and featuring Pat Coil and the Mainstays, as well as the show’s hosts, Mandy Barnett and Monica Ramey. Having attended their inaugural Variety on Main back in January, and witnessing first-hand the wide array of talent these two have brought together, I knew I wanted to chat with Mandy and Monica for the latest installment of my recurring interview feature, Rapid Fire 20 Q.

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RAPID FIRE 20 Q WITH VARIETY ON MAIN CO-HOSTS and CO-CREATORS MANDY BARNETT AND MONICA RAMEY

RAPID FIRE WITH VARIETY ON MAIN’s MANDY BARNETT

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How would you describe Variety on Main?

MANDY BARNETT: It is a multi-genre show at the historic Franklin Theatre, there are two sets, a house band made up of incredible musicians, the artists range from seasoned pros to up and coming talent, the common thread, is quality.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Before we get into Variety on Main, let’s give my readers a little refresher…Early in your career, you performed at Dollywood, what’s your favorite memory of those early days as a young performer?

MANDY BARNETT: Some of my earlier days I performed at various variety shows, from the WNOX Tennessee Barndance, Archie Campbell’s Hee Haw Village and Dollywood.  They were all located in East Tennessee.  Some of my favorite memories of Dollywood are connected to Dolly’s family, they all performed there.  I met so many nice people and it was a great experience to get to perform some shows with Dolly and with her family.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Of course most folks know that you garnered critical acclaim and a huge fanbase when you starred as Patsy Cline in the debut production of Always…Patsy Cline, at the iconic Ryman Auditorium. What do you see as the most gratifying aspect of your time with that show?

MANDY BARNETT: This year marks my 30th anniversary since I started doing Always…Patsy Cline, which was among the first jukebox musicals – a truly life changing endeavor. Having Patsy’s family and peers play a significant role in my life has been incredibly special.  It’s astonishing how someone i never knew or met could so profoundly influence the direction of my life in countless positive ways.  Patsy Cline is iconic and to portray her at the Ryman Auditorium, where she herself performed, was an experience full of meaning. This role and the connections it fostered have been the most gratifying aspects of my time with the show.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Industry insiders and fans agree, you are frequently referred to as one of the most gifted vocalist around. When you hear such praise, what goes through your mind?

MANDY BARNETT: This recognition means everything to me, especially considering the internal struggles I faced early in my career.  I often agonized over whether to pursue the path of becoming a commercial commodity or to focus solely on honing my craft and collaborating with my heroes.  Ultimately i chose the latter aiming to reach a point in my life where i could look back with satisfaction and no regrets, regardless of the outcome.  This affirmation validates that decision, and for that, I am truly thankful.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: How did Variety on Main come about?   

MANDY BARNETT: The concept of Variety On Main emerged from discussions with both Monica Ramey and the Franklin Theatre about some upcoming performances for my concerts which I had already been doing for quite some time. During our brainstorming sessions we toyed with the idea of creating a versatile Monday night show that could feature a broad spectrum of musical talent from an exceptional jazz trumpeter to a high energy bluegrass band.  The driving force behind this idea was my personal desire for diversity in music. I find myself quickly losing interest when the music is too monotonous. We wanted to craft an energetic and dynamic experience that would keep the audience engaged and open to discovering music genres they previously might not have explored. The goal was to create a space where every performance offers a new color and a fresh perspective ensuring an exciting, varied musical performance for our audience.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having attended the first Variety On Main myself, I was impressed with the true variety of the talent. I love that the lineups for Variety on Main truly live up to the idea of ‘variety’, not only representing different genres, but also a true variety of talents. How important was that to you in planning these productions? 

MANDY BARNETT:  My aim was to create a platform that highlights the incredible range and depth of talent across different musical landscapes.  It’s about creating moments where every performance is a discovery, an opportunity to be moved, inspired and surprised. 

I deeply understand the significance of providing opportunities to talent who might not otherwise have the chance to shine on stage.  Looking back at my own journey as a singer, I recognize the immense impact that working with professionals had on my development.  It’s about creating a platform where both established artists and emerging talents, including children with exceptional abilities, can come together and showcase their skills.  This inclusive approach not only makes for a a better show but also provides invaluable, potentially life-changing experiences for someone who is developing their sound.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: If anyone knows of someone who might want the chance to be part of an upcoming Variety On Main, how can they contact you and Monica for consideration?  

MANDY BARNETT: There is a talent submission form on our site. 

Photo by Cyndi Hornsby (Courtesy Variety on Main)

JHPENTERTAINMENT: As co-host and co-creator of Variety on Main, you share the stage with Monica Ramey. 

MANDY BARNETT:  We have a long history, similar goals and we have different strengths that make us a really great team. Monica is a seasoned performer, she brings elegance and polish to every performance.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of collaborating with Monica…any chance audiences might get a chance to hear the two of you duetting onstage, or on record?

MANDY BARNETT: We have definitely talked about it.  I’m sure as we hit our stride things will happen organically.  

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to your monthly Variety on Main shows and frequent performances at The Grand Ole Opry, on April 22, you’re among a stellar group of performers honoring Patsy Cline as part of Walkin’ After Midnight: The Music of Patsy Cline at the historic Ryman Auditorium. What can you tell me about that event? 

MANDY BARNETT: I’m really excited about this show, they have put together some amazing and diverse artists.  At this point that’s all I know, other than I think it’s going to be a very special night! 

RAPID FIRE WITH VARIETY ON MAIN’s MONICA RAMEY

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Collaborating with Mandy Barnett as co-host and co-creator of Variety on Main seems to be the perfect partnership. Not only are you both gifted vocalist, but beyond that, you grew up in Francesville, a small town in Indiana, while she grew up in equally rural Crossville, TN. Continuing the parallels, you both began performing at an early age. What was the first time you performed for a sizable audiences and do you remember much about it?

MONICA RAMEY: I remember singing for about 3000 people at a Farm Bureau convention in Indianapolis when I was around 4 years old. The details are foggy, but I remember getting to go to my favorite ice cream shop afterwards.  That was better than money for me at that age!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Have you always been drawn to jazz music? AND…who were some of your earliest jazz influences?

MONICA RAMEY: I was always drawn to the Great American Songbook.  I listened to a lot of broadway, popular recordings and jazz standards as a kid.  My earliest musical influences were Barbra Streisand, Lena Horne and Rosemary Clooney. 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: From what I understand, after studying music performances at Indiana State University, you eventually moved to Los Angeles where you interned for NARAS Foundation. What can you tell me about that period in your life.

MONICA RAMEY: Interning for NARAS was a great learning and cultural experience for me.  It was just a few months during college but the people who worked there invited me to everything!  I heard so much great music and met people for whom I deeply respected.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: From LA to Nashville nearly twenty-five years ago. What prompted the move to Music City?

MONICA RAMEY: I was supposed to have moved to LA after college, but I actually was encouraged to give Nashville a try.  I love LA and I learned a lot – but I’m glad I made the decision to move to Nashville for sure.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: When folks talk about Mandy, inevitably Patsy Cline makes her way into the conversation. When folks talk about you, the late, great jazz pianist Beegie Adair is frequently mentioned. How did your association with Beegie come to be and what’s among your most cherished memories of collaborating with her?

MONICA RAMEY: Beegie was family.  We both wore a lot of hats for each other and she was, without question, the most influential and supportive person I’ve ever known.  I remember right before we were supposed to go on stage for a show in NYC, she turned around to me and said “this is just the beginning for you” and then walked out on the stage.  She was full of kindness and grace and those  moments stick with me like glue.  She always had a lot of faith in me and I miss her terribly.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of collaborating, when did you and Mandy first toy with the idea of collaborating to create and co-host Variety on Main?

MONICA RAMEY: I was working with the Franklin Theatre to develop a couple of other projects and telling Mandy about them one day.  She asked “how about a variety show?”  As daunting as that sounded, I loved the idea.  And, she was forward thinking enough to envision how creative and successful it could be.  She was right!

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Having attended the first Variety on Main, I was immediately struck by how perfect the venue is. Was it a no-brainer that that’s where these shows would take place?

MONICA RAMEY: It sure was. The Franklin Theatre is a beautiful, historic theatre and the crew we work with there is amazing.  I’m proud to work with them and to support them.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: Aside from the monthly Variety on Main shows, you’re a frequent guest artist at Rudy’s Jazz Room. I have to tell you, the last time I saw you there, I had the best time. When’s your next gig there and are there any surprises you can share with me about what to expect?

MONICA RAMEY: Oh, thank you!  That means a lot to me.  I’ll be back there on March 29th at 5:30pm.  I sing the Great American Songbook and jazz standards and the only surprises will be guests who might possibly be invited to join us on stage for a song or two.   

Photo by Cyndi Hornsby (Courtesy Variety on Main)

JHPENTERTAINMENT: In addition to you and Mandy co-hosting each Variety on Main event, you both also perform a number or two. To that end, the ‘house band’ for Variety on Main is Pat Coil and the Mainstays. How much fun are you having not only performing alongside them, but also listening to them from the wings while they back many of the guests artists?

MONICA RAMEY: Oh my gosh – I’m discovering a lot of new talent just like the audience, so my jaw is on the floor most of the show.  Working with Pat Coil, Sam Hunter, Brian Allen and Larry Aberman is an honor. The energy and joy around the show is very real.

JHPENTERTAINMENT: What do you hope audiences come away remembering after having attended a Variety on Main event?

MONICA RAMEY:  I hope the audience not only leaves gratefully discovering new talent, but also the joy of being entertained and forgetting about the outside world for a couple of hours on a Monday night.  It means a lot to see folks already committing to attending the shows regularly. 

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As mentioned earlier, the Monday, March 18 Variety on Main features performances by Carlene Carter, Becky Isaacs Bowman, The Rakish Paddys, Gretchen Peters, Blue Mother Tupelo, Pat Coil and the Mainstays and of course the show’s hosts and creators, Mandy Barnett and Monica Ramey. Door open one hour before the 7:30p.m. start time. Tickets for Variety on Main are as follows: Cabaret seating (cocktail tables at the front of the stage) are $75/each, Premium Classic (Rows A-D) are $70/each, Classic and Balcony are $65/each. At the time this interview went live, there were only a handful of seats available at each price level. CLICK HERE for tickets.

Can’t make Monday’s show? On Monday, April 15, Mandy Barnett and Monica Ramey and Variety on Main’s house band, Pat Coil and the Mainstays welcome Malpass Brothers, Gail Davies, Grey Delise and Bennett Hall Band. CLICK HERE for tickets. You can also follow Variety on Main online or on their Facebook, Instagram and Threads socials for the latest information, updates on upcoming shows and lineups and more.

If you’ve enjoyed this latest Rapid Fire 20 Q, be sure and CLICK HERE to check out previous conversations. if you are interested in coverage for your latest entertaining endeavor, simply click the contact page and drop me a note. You can also follow JHP Entertainment on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!

Rapid Fire 20 Q with vocalist Lisa Stewart; Performing a Jazz Set at Analog at the Hutton Thursday, August 4

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Singer/songwriter/actress/TV host, when it comes to Lisa Stewart, there’s nothing this talented beauty can’t do. What’s more, while she did indeed get her start in 90s country, she’s not one to stick with one genre. To that end, she’s teamed with a group of talented musician recently to form to provide lead vocals to a jazz ensemble who’ve played Analog at The Hutton ((1808 West End Ave, Nashville) several times over that past few months. This Thursday, August 4, Lisa and her band will be back for another jazz set at 7p.m. Having known Lisa for several years, I figured it was high time we chatted for my latest Rapid Fire 20Q.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: As I mentioned in my intro to our chat, you’re returning to Analog at The Hutton Thursday, August 4 for another jazz set. You’ve played Analog a couple other times recently…is this becoming a regular thing?

LISA STEWART: Yes, it is! The Hutton is owned and run by creative people who love music. I’m very fortunate that they have taken me in as a sort of a “regular” on an irregular basis.  

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Some folks might know you musically as a country artist, having released your solo country project in the early days of your career, but even back when you were a frequent guest on TNN’s Music City Tonight, you’d occasionally do a jazz vocal. A sultry version of Fever comes to mind. Have you always been a fan of jazz?

LISA STEWART: Ah! Thank you for remembering that performance of Fever…that was so much fun! I’ve loved jazz standards for as long as I can remember! It was actually a jazz/piano vocal of My Funny Valentine, produced by Byron Gallimore, that opened the door to a meeting with Joe Galante in NYC. During that meeting he gave me the “thumbs up” to sign with BNA Records, a division of RCA. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Who are some of your favorite jazz vocalists?

LISA STEWART: I think Billie Holiday has one of the most identifiable voices across all genres. I’m a big fan of Sarah Vaughn, as well. Ah, and Julie London. But, my heart draws a straight line to Chet Baker.  

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: While doing a little digging to chat with you, I discovered you first performed at a very young age in church. What do you remember about those days? 

LISA STEWART: I began to sing my first solo performance after my mother dropped the needle on a 45 record of He’s Still Working on Me. When the song ended, I experienced an “Ah-ha” moment. I was 6 years old, felt the love from the audience, and knew what I wanted to do with my life. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: In addition to music in church, did you grow up in a musical household?

LISA STEWART: My mother is a pianist and organist. She can read any piece of music you put in front of her. She and I had so much fun playing and singing together. My dad always dreamed of singing on The Grand Ole Opry. As a little boy, he would hide under the covers and listen to The Opry on Saturday nights. When I shot one of my music videos at The Ryman, Dad finally got walk onto that historic stage. It was one of my sweetest memories.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: I can relate. My dad never really knew any ‘new country’ artist I worked with, but when I told him I worked with George Jones, I felt like he was more proud of me then than ever before. Something else you and I have in common, we’re both from small southern towns. You’re from Louisville, Mississippi. What memories of your childhood there do you hold dear?

LISA STEWART: There are so many. It was a simple, southern, small town life. Some of my fondest memories were holding my dad’s hand and walking to church. Afterwards, I’d go to “the singin'” with my grandparents. We’d go fishing on weekend and go swimming with the snapping turtles at Lake Tiak O’Khata. My folks always had a big garden and I loved picking strawberries. I was surrounded by art and music. My mom would stay up all night sewing dresses for me. My brother, Keith, and I would listen to vinyl records for hours on end. Stewart Family Pottery goes back to 1888, and my brother carries the torch at his pottery studio in Taylor, MS. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Speaking of your hometown. While researching in preparation of our conversation, I noticed the ‘notable people’ from your hometown, aside from you, are mostly athletes and coaches. So, I gotta ask…were you ever into sports?

LISA STEWART: I was into gymnastics for 8 years and was on the track team for about a minute. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Aside from music, you’ve also enjoyed success as a tv host. In fact, it was during those years that we first met. How much fun was hosting #1 Country and This Week in Country Music?

LISA STEWART: I absolutely love working in television and being on a set! That’s a team sport!

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Now, see there! You got a sports reference in after all. Your hometown will be proud. Like everyone in Nashville, we’ve had a few connections through the years. Weren’t you in a Billy Gilman music video? You know I worked with his management around that time, right?

LISA STEWART: Yes! I was! And I do recall that you were a part of his team!

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: You’ve also ventured into acting throughout your career. Heck, I remember the TV movie Xxxs and Ooos, with a theme song sing by Trisha Yearwood, no less. Didn’t you have a quick appearance as yourself in that one?

LISA STEWART: I did! I think I was in an aerobics class! LOL!

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Gotta love a TV movie who’s theme song was a bigger success. That leads me to another aspect of your career…songwriting. In fact, along with with Burton Collins & Clay Mills, you co-wrote Sky Full of Angels which appeared on Reba’s 2003 Room to Breathe. Like singing, songwriting is something you’ve always enjoyed, isn’t it?

LISA STEWART: Yes, I’ve been writing songs since I was about 9 years old. I write almost daily. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Let’s jump back to your acting for a minute. A couple years ago, you appeared in an episode of Vampire Diaries and a few other projects, including the film The Novitiate.  How does being on set as an actor compare to being on set as a host?

LISA STEWART: Being a host vs. playing a role as an actor are two completely different gigs. The energy, the perspective, the headspace…is like comparing apples and architecture.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Any acting gigs in the future? Have you ever done live theatre? You know, Nashville does have a fantastic theatre scene.

LISA STEWART: I recently auditioned for a popular TV series. We shall see! And yes, I have done some live theatre. I’ve enjoyed some wonderful plays and musicals at TPAC! 

JHPENTERTAINMENT: On the subject of theatre, last time I saw your son, Evan, y’all joined me for a local production of Shrek: The Musical. According to Facebook Memories, that was 8 years ago! I’m terrible at math, but I think that means Evan’s gotta be a teenager by now. Has he shown any interest in music or performing? 

LISA STEWART: Evan is 13 now! While he is musical with a great ear, a lovely voice, plays a little guitar and is a fine actor (he’s been featured in commercials and music videos), he is smart enough to express, “Mom, I don’t wanna be in show business. The road is too rough.” Fortunately, he is into academia, but just wants to lead a simple life. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Back to your current musical expression, who’ve you got performing alongside you for your upcoming jazz night at Analog?

LISA STEWART: I’m fortunate to get to share the stage with some of the best jazz musicians around! This Thursday will feature Andrew Carney on trumpet, Rick Reed on drums, Alex Murphy on keys and Carter Murphey on upright bass.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Having played The Analog before, what’s your favorite aspect of the venue itself?

LISA STEWART: The room was designed by Michael Cronin….so it sounds absolutely divine!

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Are you keeping the set strictly jazz, or do you plan on dropping in a classic country tune or two, or perhaps one of the songs from your country project?

LISA STEWART: For this show, it seems that anything aside from jazz feels a bit left footed. I like to stay in the jazz vibe.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Having done a handful of these jazz sets at Analog, is the set list always the same, or does it change when the mood strikes?

LISA STEWART: I like to have a set list as a guide, which may vary from show to show. But, I think it’s important to feel the room, as well.

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Any plans to maybe record a jazz album?

LISA STEWART: Don Was, if you’re reading this. Let’s talk. 

JHP ENTERTAINMENT: Anyone who is friends with either of us knows I’ll be in the audience at Analog Thursday as it’s the day before my Aug. 5 birthday. It’s also your birthday weekend, as yours is Aug. 6. What are you doing to celebrate your big day?

LISA STEWART: I love birthdays, and I hope to be spending my day with my son and my special someone. I hope to FaceTime my parents, brother, niece and nephew, too. But, I’m looking forward to doing what I love so much to kick off the weekend Thursday night…and that’s getting lost in the music.

Lisa Stewart will perform her jazz set at Analog at The Hutton Thursday, August 4. Advance tickets are available through August 3 for $15. Day of show tickets will be $20. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets. Any remaining tickets can also be purchased at the door just before showtime for $20. Follow Lisa on Facebook and Instagram.  For more performances at Analog at The Hutton, check them out on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

As always, if you wanna follow JHPEntertainment to find out who I’m chatting with for my next Rapid Fire Q&A, or for my take on the latest local and national theatre, music and movie offerings, find us at JHPEntertainment on Facebook, JHPEntertainment on Instagram  and JHPEntertainment on Twitter.

Got an event or show we should know about, drop us a line at the Contact tab. Till then, #GoSeeTheShow!