Vanessa Williams: The Real Thing
World Renowned Singer and Actress Releases new CD on Concord Records
For nearly 20 years, the recording, film, and television industries as well as Broadway theatres have showcased Vanessa Williams’ unique talents and her symbiotic relationships in those entertainment fields. A consummate performer, the multiple award-winning singer and actress combines a remarkable variety of technical, musical skills, and extensive performance experience.
Vanessa Williams Has Extensive Performance Experience in Music, Film, Television and on Broadway
Vanessa Williams rose to the top of her musical career in 1988 with release of her first studio album titled The Right Stuff. Since then, Williams has sold millions of records worldwide and received numerous Grammy Award nominations in the process. Her hit single, “Colors of the Wind,” (from the Disney feature film Pocahontas), won an Academy Award, Golden Globe Award and Grammy Award for Best Song in a Motion Picture.
Her Emmy Award-nominated character on the television show “Ugly Betty” has introduced her to legions of new television audiences while starring roles in “Eraser,” “The Pick-Up Artist,” “Soul Food,” and “Shaft” have provided her movie-going fans with pleasurable opportunities to witness her acting talents. With her latest role in Hannah Montana: The Movie, Williams continues to prove that she is a leading lady and one of the film industry’s most versatile and accomplished talents.
In addition to her recording, television, and film careers, the multi-talented artist garnered rave reviews for her roles on Broadway. Her performances in Kiss of The Spider Woman exceeded expectations and was critically acclaimed in the world press while her performance in “Into The Woods” received a Tony Award nomination, which is Broadway’s most prominent theatrical accolade.
The Real Thing Provides an Exceptional Contemporary Jazz, Latin and Pop Experience Produced by Babyface, Rex Rideout, Keith Thomas and Rob Mathes
In Williams’ own words, The Real Thing is "a potpourri of breezy Latin rhythms, sultry jazz standards and dreamy pop sketches," and delves into the sophisticated Pop and R&B that have been the hallmark of her dynamic musical career.
Produced by Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Rex Rideout, Keith Thomas and Rob Mathes, The Real Thing is Vanessa Williams’ first release since Everlasting Love which was released in 2005. This exceptional recording features songs written by Babyface, Stevie Wonder, Phil Galdston, Brazilian singer Babel Gilberto and Bill Withers. The 11-track recording is a passionate collection of ballads and mid-tempo songs that convey modern day love affairs as seen from a woman’s perspective.
“Breathless” opens this stunning offering. This ballad boasts Williams’ dramatic interpretative skills and distinct creative voice. The accompanists strengthen the arrangement with their ability to develop the individual style of the song’s producers and composers.
“I Fell In” was written by Phil Galdston who also wrote Williams’ mega-hit “Save The Best For Last.” This song features the unlimited depth of Williams’ musicality and ability to deliver the story behind the song. This contemporary jazz gem is built on great harmonic, rhythmic and melodic foundations that are likely to enamor listeners. It is sure to become a major crossover hit because of its appeal to both jazz and R&B enthusiasts.
“October Sky” is a beautiful duet with Javier that describes a dying relationship that is compared to the coldness of an October sky. The lyrics are especially emotional and signify the inherent artistic sensitivity that Williams brings to each song on this recording. This approach works brilliantly and holds the listener captive through their final expressions.
Williams’ masterful use of tempo, key and voice control is apparent on “Come On Strong.” This song is a seamless display of accompanists achieving just the right intensity of Latin salsa rhythms with an exceptional mix of Williams’ voice, and instrumentation at different volume levels.
Overall, The Real Thing is an even balance of creativity, tradition and exceptional musical contributions by some of today's most respected artists and composers. For more information on the lovely Vanessa Williams, please visit her website at http://www.vanessawilliams.com
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