Take Five with Lauren Henderson

Have you ever wondered what your favorite musicians are listening to, or the recordings that influenced them? “Take Five” is a look at the music that inspires and excites them. It’s difficult to choose ONLY five recordings!

Critically acclaimed vocalist and composer Lauren Henderson’s style is an alchemy of jazz, Latin jazz, flamenco, and soul. She is also fluent in English and Spanish. The Recording Academy has recognized her as one of 10 artists “Blending and Expanding the Sounds Of Latin America.” Although she was raised in North America, her multicultural background (Panamanian, Montserratian, and Caribbean) is an integral part of her artistry. Lauren’s new CD Sombras explores how her ancestry has shaped and influenced her.

Ahmad Jamal – The Awakening (Impulse!)
“This magnificent record has influenced my creative path in a multitude of ways. The magnetic energy between the band and the haunting arrangements have influenced the tone of my recordings and performance experiences. The excellence captured never ceases from pulling me in.”

Sarah Vaughan – At Mister Kelly’s (EmArcy)
“My parents introduced me to this record in my adolescence. I’ve played this record countless times, yet still learn, feel, or hear something new and profound with each listen. I feel nostalgia’s embrace, consistently drawn to her phrasing and flawless instrument LIVE.”

Shirley Horn – Travelin’ Light (ABC-Paramount)
“Shirley Horn has been a tremendous influence and inspiration throughout my career. Her phrasing, playing, and use of space, encourage and inspire listeners to lean into the reflective zone she paints.  Travelin’ Light embodies the beauty of less is more. Her gentle yet sage voice has entranced me for the better part of two decades.”

Buena Vista Social Club – Buena Vista Social Club (World Circuit/Nonsuch Records)
“Buena Vista Social Club is another record that was played throughout my childhood and will continue to play in my home. Some of the most influential músicos collectively present this beautiful voyage through some of the greatest Latin standards. This record brings warmth and recuerdos, along with the urge to sing and dance.”

Afro-Cuban All-Stars – A Toda Cuba Le Gusta (World Circuit Records)
“This album takes sonido and expression to a new level. The tight and expressive arrangements are perfectly executed yet leave room to highlight the collective virtuosity, unparalleled percussion, and musicianship throughout this record. The influence and diversity of the African Diaspora through music and culture are ever present in this treasure trove of Classics.”

Lauren Henderson Music
Instagram:@laurenhendersonmusic

Discography (All releases are on Brontosaurus Records)
Arame
Riptide
Alma Oscura
The Songbook Session
Classic Christmas
Musa
La Bruja
Conjuring
Sombras

Stay connected to KUVO’s programs and our community! Sign up for the Oasis E-News today!