Deelee Dubé

From London, singer/songwriter Deelee Dubé has made quite a splash of late as the winner of the 2016 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Competition, the first British singer to do so. One of five finalists from 23 countries, she impressed the judges panel, which included jazz luminaries Dianne Reeves, Christian McBride & Sheila Jordan, with her flawless interpretations of such quintessential standards as “Darn that Dream” & “Cherokee”. With a style that is very much in the classic mould, Deelee’s references include Ella, Billie and of course Sarah Vaughan, but her tastes are considerably more eclectic, ranging from Michael Jackson to João Gilberto and Maria Callas. With a lovely warm tone and excellent time, Deelee’s voice draws the listener in from the start, possessing an enticing intimacy that feels familiar, but still has its own personality & verve. She attended the Brit School, where she attained a graduate degree in Music-B.A. Honours as well as pursuing intensive study of the Estill vocal method at the Royal Academy of Music, and with other private tutors including Clare Foster. Deelee has been heard at venues such as The Hackney Empire, The Queen Elizabeth Hall, Bush Hall, The Hideaway & Ronnie’s, and she’s also been recognised for her songwriting talent, reaching the semi-finals in the UK Songwriting Contest (UKSC). As part of her recent competition win, she was awarded a recording contract with renowned US label Concord Jazz, so we are sure that Deelee has a very bright future ahead of her. Joining Deelee on the bandstand for her 606 debut are saxophonist Renato D’Aiello, pianist Gabriel Latchin, bassist Jay Dervish & drummer Alfonso Vitale. There is considerable excitement in the jazz community about this blossoming young star so we expect this performance to be well attended – booking advised!

“London chanteuse Deelee Dubé…displayed a beguiling soulfulness and a relaxed, solid sense of swing” Jazz Times (USA); “Exploring the cello tones that informed her bottom register (and were reminiscent of The Divine One herself), Dubé created an immediacy that resonated with audience members and judges” Downbeat (USA)