Danielle Perry

About Danielle Perry

What is your most memorable jazz gig?

Of recent years. Gabriels at Ronnie Scott’s and Ezra Collective winning the Mercury Music Prize. Never seen the whole music industry on their feet dancing before!

 What introduced you to jazz music?

A listening post at HMV in Southampton, where I heard Kind of Blue for the first time. I'd also been reading a lot about Quincy Jones at the time as my first few records were from the Motown era. 

 What is your favourite tune to hum in the morning?

Summertime, Gershwin

What are your favourite lyrics?

Anything from Cole Porter really... first one that comes to mind. 'When you're near there's such an air of spring about it I can hear a lark somewhere begin to sing about it, there's no love song finer.'

 If you were to choose the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the Jazz FM Awards, who would you give it to and why?

A few from throughout the years:

Ella Fitzgerald - I return to her albums time and time again and every time I feel as enchanted as the last. It never dilutes in it's magic.

John Coltrane for summoning such spirituality in his work 

Louis Armstrong - the first jazz artist I saw and listened to as a child. Heart immediately invested. 

Buddy Rich. Outstanding. 

Bill Evans - As a pianist myself, I just adore his touch, his phrasing. Again, another artist I never tire of hearing.