I enjoyed speaking with singer, composer and producer Anne Phillips, and 9-time Grammy nominated and host of the Latin Jazz Cruise, Bobby Sanabria, about the upcoming beautiful and uplifting play, “Bending Towards the Light: A Jazz Nativity,” which will be performed on December 18 at St. Paul and St. Andrew United Methodist Church in NYC. Along with Maurice Chestnut and Christopher Brubeck, Bobby Sanabria will be one of the Three Kings. Premiered in 1985 at St. Peter’s Church, A Jazz Nativity is the traditional Christmas story told through the medium of jazz that has included many great jazz artists, including Clark Terry, Dave Brubeck, Lionel Hampton and Tito Puente, who have been a part of it playing the roles of the kings, shepherds and angels.
“Such a worthy bookend for those of us who still cherish 'Born to Be Blue'" –Rex Reed
“It was fascinating to hear Anne Phillips apply her freer, more sophisticated, jazzier style to standards, and her own songs. And her freer, sophisticated, jazzier style is in full display on this outstanding recording.”
–Ron Weinstock, Jazz & Blues Report
“Phillips adds thoughtful anecdotes that help the audience – and now listeners – understand her history in a beautiful, personal way. Her original gems feel comfortable alongside classics by Mel Torme and The Gershwins. They are even more emotionally gripping.” –Jonathan Widran, The JW Vibe
"Where has this captivating performer been all our lives?"–Hollywood Variety/Reuters
SURVIVOR OF THE MUSIC BUSINESS
Anne tells her story in the Fall 2017 issue of the International Alliance of Women in Music Journal. Read it Here!