Celebrate Valentine’s Day a day early in the historic Rococo Theatre, 140 N. 13th St., with vocalist Jackie Allen as she performs a sensual evening of live jazz backed by an all-star quintet at 8 p.m. Feb. 13.
Praised as “romantic and poetic” by Rolling Stone, Allen sings timeless love songs in her signature sultry style.
Tickets are on sale at http://liedcenter.org, by phone at 402-472-4747 or at the Lied Center box office at 12th and R streets. Tickets are available to students at a 50 percent discount with a valid NCard.
Described as utterly distinctive and innovative by Billboard magazine, Allen is renowned for her transcendent interpretations. Her talent has taken her on multiple tours of Europe, South America, Asia and both coasts of the United States.
Allen began her professional career performing with pianist/organist Melvin Rhyne for four years before moving to Chicago. There, she recorded for independent and major labels including Lake Shore Jazz, Naxos Jazz, A440, Red Mark and Blue Note Records. Jackie met “Chicago’s First Lady of Jazz,” pianist/vocalist Judy Roberts, and began a long musical relationship, recording two CDs, “Santa Baby” and “Autumn Leaves.” Allen and her own combo recorded three critically acclaimed CDs for A440 and Blue Note: “The Men In My Life” (2003), “Love Is Blue” (2004) and “Tangled” (2006). Her 2009 release, “Starry Night,” was recorded live with a chamber orchestra and features star-themed songs penned by arrangers who have written for Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, Doc Severinsen and Bobby McFerrin. “My Favorite Color” (2014) features innovative takes on jazz standards and pop classics and was listed in USA Today’s Top 10 List. She is working on her 11th album, “Moon’s On The Rise,” to be released later this year.
On Feb. 13, Allen will be joined on stage by Bob Sheppard (special guest), John Moulder (guitar), Benjamin Lewis (keyboard), Hans Sturm (double bass) and Dane Richeson (drums/percussion).
