Lulu Pierre: Remembering Billie, Sarah & Betty

A Black History Month celebration of Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan and Betty Carter

For Black History Month, vocalist Lulu Pierre joins the Alex Webb Trio to celebrate the music of Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan and Betty Carter.

Exploring the song catalogues of these three great jazz divas, Lulu brings her own voice to a programme of expressive ballads and irresistible swing. Alongside the tribute, she’ll share a few personal favourites and a couple of surprises, making this an evening of discovery as well as familiar pleasures.

With Alex Webb’s arrangements and the support of his trio, expect a performance that honours the spirit of these remarkable singers while leaving plenty of room for Lulu’s personality, warmth and musical imagination.

“Something new and exciting … Alex Webb’s fantastic arrangements allowed Lulu the space to make a clear statement – she has arrived” Jazz in Europe

About Lulu Pierre

A compelling and chic figure on stage, Lulu Pierre has a rich mezzo-soprano capable of conveying deep emotion one moment and swinging hard the next. Her partnership with pianist and musical director Alex Webb has produced a vocal act that feels both fresh and classically jazz.

Her wider repertoire spans the Great American Songbook, intimate torch songs and unexpected choices from outside jazz. With a style that draws comparisons to Nancy Wilson’s sass and Sarah Vaughan’s swing, she combines a playful approach with a particular feeling for the heartbreak of a ballad.

About Alex Webb

Pianist, arranger and songwriter Alex Webb has a long history of working with leading jazz vocalists. His songs have been recorded by Liane Carroll, China Moses, Jo Harrop, Allan Harris, Cherise and Ayanna Witter-Johnson, among many others.

His work also brings jazz history to the stage. He created Café Society Swing, which enjoyed runs in London and New York, and co-wrote Stormy: The Life of Lena Horne with Camilla Beeput. His other projects have explored the music of Billy Strayhorn, Charlie Parker and Billie Holiday, while his album Call Me Lucky brought together eleven vocalists to perform thirteen original songs.