Music Discovery: Esperanza Spalding

If “esperanza” is the Spanish word for hope, then bassist, vocalist and composer Esperanza Spalding could not have been given a more fitting name at birth. Blessed with uncanny instrumental chops, a multi-lingual voice that is part angel and part siren, and a natural beauty that borders on the hypnotic, the 25-year-old prodigy-turned-pro might well be the hope for the future of jazz and instrumental music. credit: EsperanzaSpalding.com

This woman is an incredible singer, musician and artist. She seems to ooze rhythm, soul, scat, funk and improv with a high level of comfort. I first discovered Esperanza on The Tonight Show with David Letterman where she was such a breath of fresh air. I instantly was mesmerized with her skill at holding down some pretty heavy bass lines while effortlessly improvising her vocals on top. I really enjoy the musical motifs, ad-libs and her overall musical approach – it’s very welcoming.

She’s an easy go-to when I want to listen to something inspiring, technically-strong and very musical/accessible at the same time. I’ll be following Esperanza’s career, no doubt. Would love to catch her live some time. Psst, Esperanza… would be fab if you came to the Rochester International Jazz Festival sometime

eperanzaspalding.com