Lisa Otey

Lisa Otey's annual Jazz Meets Blues concert

2011-04-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Our annual Jazz Meets Blues concert is coming April 22 and 23! This year's magical, musical conversation between jazz and blues artists features Walter Belcher (vocal); Heather "Lil' Mama" Hardy (violin, vocal); Diane Van Deurzen (vocal); Stefan George (guitar, vocal); Lisa Otey (piano, vocal); Steve Grams (bass, vocal); Marco Rosano (sax); Dante Rosano (trumpet); and Pete Swan (drums, vocal). What a lineup!

We will have two performances:

Friday, April 22, 7:30pm

Desert View Theatre

Saddlebrooke

$21 adv, http://tickets.saddlebrooketwo.com

818.1000

Saturday, April 23, 7:00pm

Community Performing Arts Center

1250 W. Continental Rd., Green Valley

$20, www.performingartscenter.org

399.1750

We recently found a misprint regarding the Green Valley concert, advertising our show on the Friday, not the Saturday. We are taking every step possible to change this misinformation. Please help us pass the word!

In other news...the Berger Performing Arts Center is in danger of losing their Yamaha grand piano. This Saturday, April 16, at 8pm, the Berger Performing Arts Center on the campus of the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind (1200 W. Speedway) will present a benefit concert called "Ivories and Green." I will perform a few songs, as well as Rex Woods, Kim Hiyashi, Don Gest, Chamber Music Plus, and many more musical, magical and theatrical acts. Susan Claassen from the Invisible Theatre will be our MC. Tickets are $25 and are available at the door.

On Monday, April 18, our Piano Night Series with Lisa Otey continues with singer/songwriter Amber Norgaard. This will be our first performance together! Amber's journey has taken her from the farmlands of Iowa to the wilderness of Alaska before making her mark in our beautiful desert. Tucson Lifestyle writes that Amber "...combines a nurturing spirit with a keen sense of melody mixed with trenchant social observations and strong dash of on-the-mark humor." You won't want to miss this concert! We will perform Monday, April 18 at 7pm at the historic Z Mansion (288 N. Church). Tickets are $20 and are available online at www.lisaotey.com. You can also reserve your seat over the phone, 370.5912.

See you there,

-Lisa

Ivories and Green – Piano Saver Benefit Concert : In Concert! Music Association

2011-03-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

Ivories and Green – Piano Saver Benefit Concert : In Concert! Music Association

Ivories and Green – Piano Saver Benefit Concert

Buy Tickets

Who	Ivories and Green - Piano Saver Benefit Concert
When	Saturday, April 16, 2011 8:00pm - All Ages
Where	Berger Performing Arts Center (map) 1200 West Speedway Blvd Tucson, AZ 85745
Other Info	PRESENTED BY: The Berger Performing Arts Center COST: Suggested Donation $25, general admission Additional donations will be accepted in the lobby: On line here with $2.50/ticket fee: will go on sale by Saturday, March 12 All Bookmans Stores and Antigone Books, 411 N. 4th Avenue For over 13 years the Berger Performing Arts Center has had the wonderful opportunity to use a beautiful grand piano through the generous support of Hachenberg & Sons and the Yamaha Corporation. Due to the current state of the economy Yamaha has informed us that they can no longer allow use of the grand piano free of charge. Yamaha needs to collect the piano and put it up for sale. This is going to leave the Berger Performing Arts Center without a grand piano, which could effect our ability to support many of the wonderful concerts Tucson audiences have had the opportunity to enjoy at our venue in the past. It is our intention at the Berger Performing Arts Center to make sure we replace this piano so we can continue to support the variety of quality performances we are so fortunate to host. It is now necessary for us to find a way to purchase a piano of our own. This means that we must find a way to raise the funds to make such a large purchase. We are still searching for the appropriate piano to replace the piano we will be losing, so a fundraising goal has not been determined, but we will be looking at price tag from $30,000 to $50,000 depending on what piano we decide to purchase. Center. Several artists that have either performed or presented at the Berger Performing Arts Center have agreed to participate in the concert in some form or another. The list of performers scheduled to appear are (the list is subject to change): • Lisa Otey • Rex Woods • Kim Hayashi • Juan Aguirre • Chamber Music Plus • Illusionist Michael Howell • Time To Dance Dance Studio • Susan Claassen from Invisible Theatre • Arizona Rose Theatre Company • Genevieve Gaus, Richard Katz and Friends • Mary Bouley and Don Gest of Trim the Velvet • John Corrin and Student Alumni from the Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind Please join us on April 16th for a fun evening with a variety of entertainment.

Wild Women CD Review, KXCI

2009-10-08T17:28:00.000-07:00

"fun stuff from Lisa Otey and Diane Van Deurzen. This is a tribute in song to 100 years of women blues singers (see under cd for a list of inspirations) with a great mix of sass, sentimentality, sexual innuendo and humor."

-Duncan Hudson, KXCI

Benefit at Boondocks for New Beginnings

2009-08-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

AZNightBuzz.com : Benefit at Boondocks for New Beginnings on Sunday:

Tucson, Arizona | Published: 08.20.2009

Benefit at Boondocks for New Beginnings on Sunday
Women rule the Boondocks Lounge on Sunday as it hosts the second annual Goddess Gumbo benefit concert.
The evening will raise money for New Beginnings, an organization that helps get homeless women and children off the streets.

A wide cross-section local women performers, including Nancy McCallion, Lisa Otey, Namoli Brennet, Jo Wilkinson and the Silver Thread Trio, will perform.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. Admission is $10."

Celebrate Juneteenth at free fest Saturday at Kennedy Park | www.azstarnet.com ®

2009-06-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Juneteenth at free fest Saturday at Kennedy Park www.azstarnet.com ®

Celebrate Juneteenth at free fest Saturday at Kennedy Park
By M. Scot Skinner
skinner@azstarnet.com
Tucson, Arizona Published: 06.18.2009

Tucson's 39th annual celebration of Juneteenth culminates Saturday with a free festival at Kennedy Park.
Juneteenth, observed in one fashion or another by 31 states, marks the date when slaves in Galveston, Texas, finally got word that they were free — 2 1/2 years after Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

"People think that Juneteenth is a celebration for blacks, and it is, but it belongs to all Americans," said festival chairman Burney Starks.

"Until June 19th, 1865, this was not truly the United States, land of the free," said Starks. "It's a very significant date in American history."

In addition to vendors selling all kinds of food, there'll be kids activities and a fully loaded lineup of musical and dance performances on the Fiesta Area stage near West Ajo Way and South La Cholla Boulevard.

Although admission is free, the Community Food Bank will be collecting nonperishable items for its shelves.
"We're encouraging everybody to bring a couple cans of food," said Starks, who will hit the stage at some point with his True Devotion Motown Revue.

The Juneteenth All-Star Band, featuring Bob "Big Bird" Elliott , Lisa Otey and others, will be featured, and no Juneteenth would be complete without African dancing from the Barbea Williams company.

Although the schedule was still being tweaked when we went to press, a total of 42 performers will be spotlighted during a Hip-hop and R&B Showcase that starts at 5 p.m., said Samantha Baxter, who is coordinating the entertainment this year with her husband, David, and DJ Terry Thomas.

The Rising Star Praise Dancers, the HTJ Step Team and the Human Project dance ensemble will perform, along with D-N-A, Mo Watts, Southern Union, Mic Jordan, Desert Tactics and Good Hood Music.

Miss Juneteenth 2009 — Tatiana Acosta, 19 — will be introduced along with the runner-up, Ynisha Carter, 15.

Acosta will perform "Listen," from the musical "Dreamgirls."

Belting out the boogie and blues | www.azstarnet.com ®

2009-03-26T16:59:00.000-07:00

Belting out the boogie and blues www.azstarnet.com ®

Belting out the boogie and blues
By Jim Davis

Arizona Daily Star
Tucson, Arizona Published: 03.26.2009

Nothing beats live music, except live music on a beautiful day. With that, the stage was set for LAVA's (Live Acoustic Venue Association) Boogie 'n' Blues at Pantano Stables, 4450 S. Houghton Road, Sunday.

The first performer was Mitzi Cowell singing blues songs accompanied by bassist Sabra Faulk.

Next were the "Wild Women in Music," Lisa Otey and Diane Van Deurzen, who belted out a mix of hot jazz, sultry blues and cabaret numbers.

Diane Van Deurzen does her part for the Boogie 'n' Blues multi-artist show at the Pantano Stables, 4450 S. Houghton Road Sunday.
Photos by Jim Davis / Arizona Daily Star

Soon after, Grams & Krieger came on to play an electric blues set with drummer Ralph Gilmore. Bassist Steve Grams and guitarist Danny Krieger traded off on the vocals.

Other performers finishing out the afternoon included Heather "Lil Mama" Hardy, Arvel Bird and Tony Redhouse and, finally, Mr. Boogie Woogie.

LAVA's future event schedule can be found online at www.lavamusic.org.
● Contact photographer Jim Davis at 807-7768 or jdavis@azstarnet.com.

Northwest Reverb: Memorial concert for Cline Otey - former Oregon Symphony and Portland Opera musician and teacher

2009-02-21T15:13:00.000-08:00

Northwest Reverb: Memorial concert for Cline Otey - former Oregon Symphony and Portland Opera musician and teacher

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Memorial concert for Cline Otey - former Oregon Symphony and Portland Opera musician and teacher

A memorial Concert for Cline Otey will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2009 at 3:00pm, St. Anne's Chapel, Marylhurst University, 17600 Pacific Highway (Hwy 43). The concert will feature Otey's family, friends, colleagues and students and will benefit the music therapy program at Marylhurst.

According to Otey's daughter, Lisa Otey, enjoyed a musical career for nearly 40 years in the Portlandarea. He played violin in the Oregon Symphony and the Portland Opera, was assistant conductor to the Portland Youth Philharmonic and taught thousands of children in the orchestras of North Clackamas School
District.

"Music was my father's life," said Lisa. "The only thing more important to him was children. He spent his career nurturing and inspiring the talents of his students and his own family."

Otey passed away on Aug. 5, 2008. Lisa Otey mentioned that one of his passions at the end of his life was music therapy. He longed to bring music into children's hospitals. Even when he spent a short time in a nursing home, he played for the residents and brought healing to their lives.

"I am most interested in finding m dad's former students," stated Lisa. "I have found some online but am at a disadvantage, living in Tucson, Arizona, which is so far away from Portland. It would mean so much if you could list the concert and also a call to his students if they wish to articipate in the concert. They can reach me at lisa@owlsnestmusic.com, www.lisaotey.com and 520.370.5912. It is my dream that this will become an annual event to keep my father's memory and legacy alive."

Concert for Cline
benefit for Marylhurst Music Therapy program
Sunday, March 1
3:00pm
St. Anne's Chapel
Marylhurst University
17600 Pacific Highway (Hwy 43)
$10 suggested donation
all donations accepted

Posted by James Bash at 9:50 AM

PINETOP PERKINS: Ladies Man (Live Recording) | Music Blogs At Traveling Luck

2009-02-21T15:09:00.000-08:00

PINETOP PERKINS: Ladies Man (Live Recording) Music Blogs At Traveling Luck:

"PINETOP PERKINS: Ladies Man (Live Recording)"

Review: In my mind, I felt that this, my 400th review for JazzReview, was a personal milestone. Then this CD landed on my desk. My little milestone is dwarfed by this release by the 91-year-old Pinetop Perkins. Pinetop has made a living playing the blues since 1926. Now that's a milestone! Nine admiring and talented women surround Pinetop. Im humbled again!

An original Mississippi bluesman, Perkins was born at Belzoni, MS in the year 1913. Starting on the guitar, he switched to piano after an injury made the execution of guitar passages quite painful. Under the tutelage of the legendary Clarence Pinetop Smith, Willie Perkins composed Smiths signature tune, Pinetops Boogie Woogie recorded by Vocalion in 1928. Smith died in 1929 and Willie Perkins took on the Pinetop nickname in respect for his mentor.

Mention such respected names in blues as Chess Records, King Biscuit Time, Sun Records, Muddy Waters and they were part of Pinetops life. He is, in every sense, a living legend.

Recording executive, Mark Carpentieri, felt he had a valid idea in recording the boogie man in his ninety -first year. He picked up the ball and ran with it. The veteran bluesman was recorded in the company of some of the brightest blues women on the scene today. Sessions took place in California, Memphis, New York and Ottawa, Canada. The result is a fabulous CD in every way.

Please check out the track listing below. Ive listed the featured ladies beside each song. Elvin Bishop is the only male artist featured with Pinetop on this release. Bishop wails on How Long Blues. If someone were to ask about my personal favorites on the CD, I would truly be hard-pressed for an answer. There isn't a single track that didn't merit five stars." A sentimental favorite would be Since I Lost My Baby because I love the old Ivory Joe Hunter classic. Then theres the awesome power generated when Marcia Ball joins Pinetop on Pinetops New Boogie Woogie. Delicate artistry reigns when the veteran and Ann Rabson pump out the perfect rendition of Careless Love. They are all stars and are accompanied by some wonderful rhythm players. Id like to mention that, although not given major billing on the cover, Lisa Otey deserves special mention. Lisa is a gutsy, two fisted piano player who accompanies Pinetops vocals and also plays alongside the star on five tracks. Just listen to Kansas City for a sample of Lisas exciting style. Richard Bourcier

Recording information: Raven Street Studios, Ottawa, Ontario (2003); Tiki Recording Studios, Glen Cove, NY (2003); Memphis Soundworks, Memphis, TN (2003); Rancho Nicasio, Nicasio, CA (2004).

Personnel include: Pinetop Perkins (vocals, piano); Deborah Coleman, Madeleine Peyroux, Susan Tedeschi (vocals, guitar); Odetta, Angela Stehli, Ruth Brown (vocals); Elvin Bishop (slide guitar); Marcia Ball, Ann Rabson (piano); Bob Stroger (bass guitar); Willie Smith (drums).

Thanks go to Cheech for this one.

Your purchase helps support NPR Programming...Thanks!!!

Tracks:

1. Meanest Woman - (with Deborah Coleman) 2. Since I Lost My Baby - (with Susan Tedeschi) 3. Big Fat Mama 4. He's Got Me Goin' - (with Madeleine Peyroux) 5. Chains of Love - (with Ruth Brown) 6. Kansas City 7. Pinetop's New Boogie Woogie - (with Marcia Ball) 8. How Long - (with Elvin Bishop) 9. Hey Mr. Pinetop Perkins - (with Angela Stehli) 10. Trouble in Mind - (with Odetta) 11. Careless Love - (with Ann Rabson) 12. Chicken Shack

Details
.. Year: 2004
.. Label: M.C. Records 53
.. Bitrate: VBR
.. Home-Page: http://www.pinetopperkins.com/index.htm
.. MySpace: www.myspace.com/pinetopperkins
.. Last fm: www.last.fm/music/Pinetop+Perkins
.. Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinetop_Perkins
.. Buy: http://www.cdmojo.com/

The Observer - Tucson, Arizona: Desert Voices Thrills Sro Audience at Annual Cabaret

2009-02-21T15:04:00.000-08:00

The Observer - Tucson, Arizona: Desert Voices Thrills Sro Audience at Annual Cabaret

Saturday, February 21, 2009
Desert Voices Thrills Sro Audience at Annual Cabaret

TUCSON (Observer Update) - “Wow! … The Chorus was in fine, fine form! …The best yet! …Thanks for that wild, glorious production! …A real pleasure to be among the sold-out crowd!”

It was standing room only at the Historic Y in Tucson on February 7th as Desert Voices Chorus brought the house down with a solid musical comedy performance in their 20th Season Cabaret, “In the Basement”. Special Guest Stars, Lisa Otey and Diane Van Deurzen joined with Desert Voices for a raucous, risqué and thoroughly entertaining musical event. Silent Auction bidding was heavy on the more than 150 items donated to Desert Voices for their only fundraising event of the Season. Appetizers and spirits from Carrabba’s Italian Grille, Barefoot Wine and Woody’s Bar perfectly complemented the electric atmosphere of the concert.

Thanks to Artistic Director, Chris Tackett, musical numbers were inspiring and demonstrated the range and diversity of performance so prevalent in all Desert Voices’ Concerts. Otey and Van Deurzen contributed the right touch of raw emotion, timely comedy and up-tempo renditions that consistently elicited an enthusiastic response from the sold-out house. The final concerts of the Season will be on April 18, 7:30 p.m. and April 19, 3:00 p.m. at the Proscenium Theatre, Pima Community College, West Campus. “Out and Proud” celebrates 20 years of Desert Voices concerts with a retrospective featuring musical selections celebrating 25 years of GALA choruses. Namoli Brennet returns for her second special guest appearance of Desert Voices 20th. Season. Tickets are still available but selling quickly as this will be the last chance to catch Desert Voices during what has been a phenomenal Concert Season.

For tickets, call: (520) 791-9662 or visit their website: desertvoices.org.

Aisle seats: Arts picks for the week | www.azstarnet.com ®

2009-01-31T08:11:00.000-08:00

Aisle seats: Arts picks for the week www.azstarnet.com ®

Aisle seats: Arts picks for the week

Published: 01.30.2009

Cathalena E. Burch
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
Desert Voices / Desert Divas

Desert Voices is bringing two local blues belters along when it goes "In the Basement" for its annual fundraising concert Feb. 7.

Blues diva Lisa Otey and her Desert Diva sidekick Diane Van Deurzen headline the 20-year-old chorus' annual Cabaret and Silent Auction, which the chorus describes as "a risqué, slightly bawdy and thoroughly entertaining musical comedy event."

Otey is an award-winning singer and pianist known for her progressive blues styles. Van Deurzen has won audiences over with her vocal talents and solid songwriting.

Doors open at 6 p.m. at the Historic Y, 300 E. University Blvd. Admission is $30 per person, and the event is open to "adults only," the chorus advertised on its Web site.

Since it got its start in 1988, Desert Voices has grown to more than 50 voices under artistic director Chris Tackett.

The chorus will close its 20th season April 18-19 with Namoli Brennet headlining "Out and Proud," a 20-year retrospective. Those concerts will be held at Pima Community College West Campus. Details: 791-9662 or http://www.desertvoices.org/

Cathalena E. Burch

The Observer - Tucson, Arizona: Lisa Otey & Diane Van Deurzen to Guest Star at Desert Voices Fundraiser

2009-01-28T11:24:00.000-08:00

The Observer - Tucson, Arizona: Lisa Otey & Diane Van Deurzen to Guest Star at Desert Voices Fundraiser

Monday, January 26, 2009

Lisa Otey & Diane Van Deurzen to Guest Star at Desert Voices Fundraiser

TUCSON (Observer Update) - Tucson performing legend, Lisa Otey and fellow Desert Diva, Diane Van Deurzen will make a special guest appearance at Desert Voices’ Annual Cabaret and Silent Auction, February 7th at the Historic Y, 300 E. University, Tucson. Doors open at 6:00 pm for, “In the Basement”, a risqué, slightly bawdy and thoroughly entertaining musical comedy event.

In celebration of their 20th season, Desert Voices has invited some of Tucson’s best performing luminaries to share the stage for 2008-2009.

Lisa Otey, described by the Arizona Daily Star as a blues/jazz diva extraordinaire, has won many awards for her progressive blues style including 2001 Arizona Blues Hall of Fame, 2001-2004 Arizona Commission on the Arts, 2000 Arizona Composer of the Year, 1998 Arizona Blues Showdown winner, 1997 TAMMIES Musician of the Year and Best Local Performing Artist of 2007.

Diane Van Deurzen’s debut CD, “I Never Knew” co-produced with Lisa Otey for Owl’s Nest Productions, is a celebration of love, passion and poetry. Diane is a performer with solid songwriting talents and a voice that is, “Warm and soothing, pouring out the lyrics with effortless control.”

All proceeds from this year’s only fundraiser will be used to help Desert Voices sustain its mission of uniting our community through our music and providing a voice for all. Since its inaugural season in 1988, Desert Voices, Arizona’s Premier GLBTS Chorus has grown to over 50 voices strong under the artistic direction of Chris Tackett.

Desert Voices will close its 20th season with, “Out and Proud”, a 20-year retrospective featuring music from twenty-five years of GALA Choruses. Special Guest, Namoli Brennet returns for these concerts, April 18th & 19th at the Proscenium Theatre, Pima Community College West Campus. For ticket information please call, (520) 791-9662.

Heather Hardy and Friends' Tribute to Sam Taylor

2009-01-15T10:30:00.000-08:00

Tucson Weekly : Music : Live

PUBLISHED ON JANUARY 15, 2009:
Live
By JIM LIPSON

Heather Hardy and Friends' Tribute to Sam Taylor
Boondocks Lounge, Saturday, Jan. 10

Under a full moon, more than 300 people packed into Boondocks to see electric-violinist extraordinaire Heather Hardy (and friends) pay tribute to the late Sam Taylor. Hardy and Taylor were friends and frequent collaborators, and Saturday's gig was truly inspired, with Hardy making room onstage for many of Taylor's musical friends and sidemen throughout the years.

Hardy's core band included Danny Krieger on guitar, Sabra Faulk on bass and Marx Loeb on drums, all of whom put in significant time onstage with Taylor, and all of whom had stories to share. Stories about Sam were in abundance both on and off the stage. Representing the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame, Stefan George introduced the show by alluding to Sam's legendary ability to hustle money on the golf course. A former middleweight boxer, he was also a scratch golfer who didn't necessarily look the part.

Hardy's first set included Barry Stillwagon on harp as the only invited guest, but that would soon change. After opening the second set with a stirring solo rendition of "Amazing Grace" ("I need to play this so I can feel closer to Sam"), Hardy seamlessly orchestrated the comings and goings of musicians including George, Chris Leonard and Tall Paul Webner on guitars, Darren Boswell on bass, Robin Horn on drums, Lisa Otey on piano, Heidi Wilson and Clay Brown on saxophones, and Don Nottingham on vocals, sharing a duet with Hardy on "Since I Met You Baby," a song she used to sing with Taylor.

Though many of these folks are used to fronting their own bands, there was a chemistry and synergy present, often allowing the music to become more than the sum of its parts. The set was highlighted, however, by Hardy bringing her 12-year-old son, Jacob, onstage to play ("he's one badass drummer!"), and recalling how when she was unsure about being pregnant, "Sam looked at me and proclaimed, 'This is a child of God!,' and I knew then that everything would be OK."

In the end, it was Loeb who put it best: Reflecting upon all the good vibes in the room, he remarked, "What a cool gig this is. Sam would be so fucking pleased."

Desert Voices Are ‘Spectacular’

2009-01-07T08:25:00.000-08:00

The Observer - Tucson, Arizona: Desert Voices Are ‘Spectacular’

Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Desert Voices Are ‘Spectacular’

TUCSON (Observer Update) - “It was spectacular… amazing! We laughed… we cried…. So professional… the blend of sounds was beautiful! I saw you perform Silent Night two years ago…what you achieved was amazing… you could have heard a pin drop! We’re now lifetime season ticket holders!”

This is just a small sampling of audience reaction to Desert Voices’ 20th Season holiday opener, “Down the Chimney.” The concert played on consecutive nights to near-capacity audiences that made many first-time Desert Voices concert attendees--converts for life. Special Guest Star, Namoli Brennet’s elegant, wistful performance blended seamlessly with Desert Voices’ nearly 50 member chorus.

Not wanting to stand on their laurels, Desert Voices has begun preparation for their Annual Cabaret & Fundraiser, February 7 at the Historic Y. Special Guest Stars, Lisa Otey and Diane Van Deurzen will join Desert Voices for “In the Basement", a risqué, slightly bawdy and totally entertaining evening of music and comedy as Lesbian coffee house meets Gay piano bar.

Auction action on an excellent assortment of items begins at 6:00 p.m. Appetizers will be provided by Carrabba's Italian Grille with wine and champagne provided by Barefoot Wine & Bubbly. A limited number of tickets are still available for this once a year event and may be purchased by calling (520) 791-9662. All proceeds will help Desert Voices to sustain its artistic and community mission.

Desert Voices is Arizona’s premier GLBTS Chorus. Our abiding mission is to unite our community through our music and provide a voice for those who may have no voice. Each year Desert Voices, under the artistic direction of Chris Tackett, extends a musical invitation to our community to join with us as we celebrate with programs that inspire while providing laughter and lasting memories.

For more information, please contact Jeffrey Scotland, General Manager of Desert Voices (520) 908-8740, Jeffreyscotland@desertvoices.org online at desertvoices.org.

AZNightBuzz.com : Women's movement

2008-11-20T16:23:00.000-08:00

AZNightBuzz.com : Women's movement

Female musicians gaining locally
Women's movement
By Kevin W. Smith
KSMITH@AZSTARNET.COM
Tucson, Arizona Published: 11.20.2008

While women make up more than half the world's population, in American popular music they're largely outnumbered by dudes with guitars. This also holds true in Tucson's music scene, but one area the ladies are increasing in, both locally and nationally, is the singer-songwriter field. "It's kind of an exciting time in the world to be songwriting," said Tucson's Amber Norgaard, one of many women leading the local scene.

Nothing away from the guys in town — Nick Luca, Al Perry, Al Foul and Andrew Collberg, to name a few — or the women rocking out in bands such as Winelord, The Okmoniks and The Runaway 5.
It's just, if you're seeking the most diverse array of female voices in Tucson music, you need to listen to the singer-songwriters.

Local radio personality Cathy Rivers said she's seen more and more women performing on local stages since she started crafting her own music here in the '90s.

"There's a lot of chicks around town playing music," Rivers said. "It's absolutely growing."
The result is some of the most honest, exciting and diverse material the city has to offer, with varying styles, from pop to folk to rock.

"Everyone is totally legitimate in their own right, too," said Namoli Brennet. "It's not just that they exist in this scene."

Segments of the women singer-songwriter collection in Tucson are like small communities that tour, play and share lineups and resources, negating competition.

"There's no making it in Tucson. It's happened, but it's rare," said veteran singer-songwriter Amy Rude. "People are here for the music."

Tucson has a rich tradition of women singer-songwriters, like longtime resident and blues diva Lisa Otey, Americana artist Nancy McCallion, the folky Kathleen Williamson and the incomparable alt-country songstress and Old Pueblo transplant, Neko Case.

This year we've had such quality artists as Ani DiFranco, Sheryl Crow and Johnette Napolitano swinging through town. This month has seen local performances from national acts K.D. Lang and Grace Potter of Grace Potter and the Nocturnals.

"Women have a softer way of looking at things, almost more sarcastic and less animalistic," said Potter, who played Club Congress earlier this month. "And I really enjoy playing with that and experimenting with it."

Two pioneers, Lilith Fair founder Sarah McLachlan and Alanis Morissette, will perform at the Tucson Arena on Dec. 11 for the listener-appreciation show from The Mountain (92.9-FM).
On the national and international stages, there've been several who have found success pushing the boundaries, starting way back in the '60s and '70s with Joni Mitchell and Patti Smith, all the way to the '90s with DiFranco, Melissa Etheridge, Björk, Lauryn Hill and PJ Harvey.

Today there's a female artist — be it Feist, Regina Spektor, Cat Power, Joanna Newsom, Norah Jones or M.I.A. — at the forefront of just about any genre.

The winner of the Arizona Daily Star's 2008 Battle of the Bands was the folk-pop duo Mirror Image. Twins Andrea and Juliet Wilhelmi, the only females in the competition, prevailed against 24 guys.
Still, reasons vary as to why more women don't use the musical-strength-in-numbers philosophy as often as guys do with bands, instead of opting to do their own thing as solo artists.
Rivers said many garage bands evolve out of friendships, and, more often than not, that's "boys getting together with boys."

"Women, then, are like, 'Well, I'm just going to learn to play guitar. I'm going to start playing on my own,' " she said.

Local crooner Marianne Dissard doesn't consider herself a singer-songwriter because she only writes lyrics, but she said the advantages of being a solo artist are simple.

"If you're a one-person band, you are free to do whatever you want, whenever you need to do it," she said via e-mail while on tour in France.

A challenge for women musicians is that they are often lumped into a stereotype — even the term "singer-songwriter" is seen by some as a way to marginalize a large group of distinct voices.
"I think the expectation of a female musician should be just as high as a male, and I don't like it when people lower their expectations because there's a girl," Potter said. "It's like, 'Oh, give her a chance, she's really pretty.'"

Tucson's Kaia Chesney thinks guys, for instance, get more credit for being emotional in songs; when similar sentiments are coming from a woman, it's expected.

"I want to be honest in everything that I write and sing, and I want it to be realistic," she said. "But at the same time I don't want to be swept under the rug as a 'feminist, coffee-bar singer.' Which I think happens to a lot of good female musicians."

Potter, who is signed to a major label, would love to see more women making music, but said they have to give audiences something different.

"Don't complain about having all this flooded industry of men if you're not going to provide something substantial for people to latch onto," she said.

"I don't want to hear a million Tori Amoses. We've got one."
Among Tucson's female singer-songwriters, there were also mixed feelings about the number of venues that support their music.

Coffeehouses such as Epic Cafe, Javalinas Coffee and Friends, Shot in the Dark Cafe, and Bentley's House of Coffee & Tea are all seen as being supportive.

There are also traditional music venues such as Club Congress, Plush, Solar Culture, Red Room at Grill and the Living Room that will provide a forum.

Kris Kerry is the concert booker at Plush nightclub and husband of Rivers. While he's not keeping a tally of the male-to-female musician ratio at Plush, he said it is a welcoming venue for singer-songwriters.
"I don't think there's any blatant sexism," Kerry said. "But there does always seem to be more male artists than female artists."

Rude would like to see more venues in town welcome singer-songwriters, although she's been known to get creative: Her first Tucson gig was busking on a Downtown sidewalk near Hotel Congress.

Williamson, a singer-songwriter who moved to Tucson more than 20 years ago, said she would like to see additional art galleries open their doors for performances from "a poet with a guitar."

"The venues aren't going to be created unless the audience comes out," she said.

Williamson also thinks that some of the coffeehouses that do support singer-songwriters could do more to promote the shows, and that musicians often receive little or no ompensation.

"It's a labor of love," she said.

Today we introduce you some women making music locally — and there should be plenty more new faces in the years to come.

"More parents are buying girls guitars," Rivers said. "They never used to. And that's just pure evolution of the feminist movement."

Music notes | www.azstarnet.com ®

2008-11-14T07:23:00.000-08:00

Music notes www.azstarnet.com ®: "

Caliente
Music notes
Tucson, Arizona Published: 11.14.2008

The Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave., will become boogie woogie central as Lisa Otey presents her Fourth Annual Boogie Woogie Blowout on Saturday.

Among the acts will be pianist Doña Oxford from Los Angeles and Carl Sonny Leyland, a blues and Boogie Woogie player inspired by classic artists such as Roosevelt Sykes and Otis Spann.
Local favorites Otey and Arthur Migliazza also will perform.

The evening begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance (call 370-5912) and $30 at the door."

The Observer - Tucson, Arizona: Around Tucson This Time

2008-10-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

The Observer - Tucson, Arizona: Around Tucson This Time:

"Rounding out our entertainment on the main stage, Tucson Pride are very pleased to welcome local acts as well as acts from across the state and around the nation. This year’s roster includes: 8 Inch Betsy; Clint Crishner; Namoli Brennett; Sabra Faulk and Amber Norgaard; Liz Stahler; Too Much Information; and Courtney Robbins, as well as presenting on a second stage of live entertainment, the CoffeeHouse Stage! Scheduled entertainers on the CoffeeHouse Stage include: Desert Voices; Lisa Otey & Diane Von Duerzen; Arthur Migliazza; Reveille; and T-Squares.

For more information, go online to tucsonpride.org."

Arizona Jazz Academy to Perform at 233rd Naval Birthday Bash

2008-10-10T07:24:00.000-07:00

Press Release: Arizona Jazz Academy to Perform at 233rd Naval Birthday Bash « TJDuprey Unlimited

Press Release: Arizona Jazz Academy to Perform at 233rd Naval Birthday Bash
October 10, 2008

Navy Operational Support Center Tucson

Morale, Welfare and Recreation Committee

Pima Air & Space Museum

6000 E. Valencia Rd., Hangar 1, Tucson, Arizona 85706

Guest Speaker

CAPT (Ret.) P. Kevin Peppe, USN

Deputy Vice President, Raytheon

Naval Weapons Systems

Entertainment by:
The Arizona Jazz Academy Ellington Big Band,
under the direction of Doug Tidaback
and The Lisa Otey Trio with Diane Van Deurzen

Date: October 18, 2008

Time:

1800 (6:00 pm) – Cocktails

1900 (7:00 pm) – Dinner & program

Dancing to follow

No admittance after ceremonies begin

Ticket Prices (each):

E-7 and above: $40.00

E-5 & E-6: $30.00

E-4 & below: $20.00

Civilians/Retirees: $40.00

For tickets, information, sponsorship and corporate table purchases, please call 520-228-6271

Military & uniformed service attendees: Dinner Dress Blue, Dinner Dress Blue Jacket or service equivalent uniform

Civilians: Formal dinner attire

Retirees: Uniforms encouraged

Navy Birthday Facts

The United States Navy traces its origins to the Continental Navy, which the Continental Congress established on 13 October 1775 by authorizing the procurement, fitting out, manning, and dispatch of two armed vessels to cruise in search of munitions ships supplying the British Army in America. The legislation also established a Naval Committee to supervise the work.

In 1972 Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt authorized recognition of 13 October as the Navy’s birthday. The Chief of Naval Operations has stated that the Navy Birthday is one of the two Navy wide dates to be celebrated annually.

Lisa Otey's family show rescheduled from August | www.azstarnet.com ®

2008-08-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

Lisa Otey's family show rescheduled from August www.azstarnet.com ®

Lisa Otey's family show rescheduled from August
Tucson, Arizona Published: 08.21.2008

Lisa Otey and Diane Van Deurzen will share the Z Mansion stage with Otey's mom, Gay, and brother David for two special performances next week.

The shows on Monday and Tuesday were originally scheduled for Aug. 4, but were canceled when Otey's father died.

The rescheduled concerts will pay tribute to Otey's father and to Van Deurzen's mother, who died in July.

Otey is a heralded Tucson blues singer and boogie-woogie pianist, while her partner, Van Deurzen, is a respected vocalist. Otey's brother plays trombone and has a regular gig on Princess cruise ships. Her mom anchors the ensemble at piano and vocals.

Monday's and Tuesday's concerts begin at 7 p.m. at Z Mansion, 288 N. Church Ave. Tickets are $20 online at www.lisaotey.com. For reservations, call 370-5912.

— Cathalena E. Burch

The Explorer - The Voice of Marana, Oro Valley and Northwest Tucson > El Sol > The Guide

2008-08-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

The Explorer - The Voice of Marana, Oro Valley and Northwest Tucson > El Sol > The Guide: "FRIDAY, AUG. 22

• Local jazz/blues singer Lisa Otey will perform as part of Tohono Chul Park’s Summer Concert Series. Details: 7 p.m.; 7366 N. Paseo del Norte; $10 members, $12 for non-members in advance; $15 and $17 at the door; 742-6455.FRIDAY, AUG. 22

Fest will beat the blues | Cincinnati Enquirer | Cincinnati.Com

2008-08-01T15:29:00.000-07:00

Fest will beat the blues Cincinnati Enquirer Cincinnati.Com

By Rick Bird • Enquirer contributor • August 1, 2008

The theme of this year's Cincy Blues Fest could well be "Let's party!"

The lineup features a number of high-energy showmen, infectious blues rockers and rollicking jump blues.

Organizers acknowledge it's an attempt to show people the blues doesn't have to be, well ... blue.

"Our goal this year was to book interesting shows that keep things hopping," said Joy Henderson, Cincy Blues Fest coordinator. "Some people think blues has to be sad, crying-in-your-beer stuff. It doesn't have to be. We wanted to attract a younger crowd with a lot of high-energy music."

Organizers expect up to 20,000 people for the 16th Cincy Blues Fest tonight and Saturday at Bicentennial Commons at Sawyer Point. The volunteer-run event is sponsored by the Cincy Blues Society, with all proceeds going to its Blues in the Schools program.

Headliners include Lil' Ed and the Blues Imperials today and Watermelon Slim Saturday. Guitar slinger Lil' Ed is known for his upbeat showman style; Watermelon Slim is a true character with his campy storytelling style on guitar and harp.

Other highlights include veteran roadhouse blues rocker Jimmy Thackery and the Kilborn Alley Blues Band, featuring younger practitioners of the classic Chicago electric blues tradition. Also on the bill is Grammy-winning harmonica player Sugar Blue.

This year, organizers dropped a gospel stage and added an "AlternaBlues" stage today. It includes blues-derivative folk, roots rock and Americana music ranging from local troubadour Jake Speed and blues rockers Pearlene to the eclectic Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band (a trio with Peyton's wife on rub board).

The stage also will feature a tribute to Sean Costello, the up-and-coming Atlanta guitarist who died in April one day short of his 29th birthday. His death was ruled an accidental drug overdose that included prescribed anti-anxiety medication. Costello was originally scheduled to be the Saturday night headliner. Northern Kentucky guitarist Jon Justice, a friend of Costello's who shares a soulful/R&B-influenced blues style, will perform the tribute set, with donations encouraged for the Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research established by his family.

The blues fest continues its tradition of an all-day boogie-woogie piano stage. The event is thought to be the only blues festival in the country with a stage dedicated to the genre. There's increased female power on the stage this year, with five women players, including Lisa Otey, Wendy DeWitt and Sue Palmer, who have toured together as the "queens of the boogie-woogie piano."

Cincinnati's prodigal harp son, Steve Tracy, will return to his hometown to emcee the piano stage and perform. Tracy is professor of African-American studies at the University of Massachusetts and author of "Going to Cincinnati: A History of the Blues in the Queen City."

Arches Boogie Woogie Piano Stage

Saturday

3:45 p.m.: The jam session includes piano players Mark Braun, Eden Brent, Wendy DeWitt, Ricky Nye, Lisa Otey, Sue Palmer, Liz Pennock and Dr. Blues, Rob Rio, Bob Seeley and Matt Wigler.

Tucson Weekly : CityWeek : City Week

2008-07-03T06:32:00.000-07:00

Lisa Otey and Walter Belcher

PUBLISHED ON JULY 3, 2008:
City Week

Tucson Weekly : CityWeek : City Week:

"Lisa Otey and Walter Belcher (shown) perform at 7 p.m., Monday, July 7, at Z Mansion, 288 N. Church Ave. $20. Call 370-5912 for information."

The LUMIES ~ Tucson Pima Arts & Business Award Gala Event at the FOX Theatre May 4th!

2008-04-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Tucson Theatre Announcements List: Tucson: The LUMIES ~ Tucson Pima Arts & Business Award Gala Event at the FOX Theatre May 4th!

The LUMIES ~ Tucson Pima Arts & Business Award Gala Event at the FOX Theatre May 4th!
Tickets selling FAST! Buy your tickets NOW! Tables already SOLD OUT!

On Sunday May 4th Join Master of Ceremonies Chuck George (KOLD NEWS 13) at the FOX Tucson Theatre for an glamorous evening of celebration as we honor those Luminaries in our community – artists, volunteers, individuals, businesses and arts organizations – nominated for their outstanding contributions to the arts.

Featuring Performances by: The Arts for All Acting Ensemble, Thom Lewis Dance - featuring Max Foster & Andrea Murray, Opening Minds Through the Arts (OMA) - Matthew Vera, Violinist/violist accompanied by Joan Ashcraft & the Tucson Jazz Society featuring Lisa Otey & Diane Van Deurzen.

Click on the link below to see Mary Davis, Lumie Event Chair & Ron Shoopman, President, Southern Arizona Leadership Council discusses this important event on Inside Arizona Business! http://www.insidearizonabusiness.com/player-new.asp?ID=231
TPAC wishes to extend congratulations to all of the 2008 LUMIE ~Tucson Pima Arts & Business Award Nominees! Visit our website for the complete list of nominees: www.tucsonpimaartscouncil.org/about/awards/index.html
Tickets are on sale NOW at the FOX Theatre box office ~ visit: www.foxtucsontheatre.org/mainhome.php or call 547-3040.

The Enquirer - Cincy Blues Fest set for August

2008-04-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

The Enquirer - Cincy Blues Fest set for August:

"Cincy Blues Fest set for August"
Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Cincy Blues Fest will return to Sawyer Point Aug. 1 and 2 for its 16th year.
The “Sweet Sixteen" edition of the blues extravaganza will include more than 50 local, regional, and national acts.

On Friday, Aug. 1, the festival will run from 5 p.m until midnight on three stages with a $7 admission (Blues Society members free). Tickets will be available at the gate; there are no plans for advance sales.
The Main Stage will feature headliner Sean Costello along with Alvin Jett, Phat Noiz, and Jimmy Thackery and the Drivers.

This year, the Arches Stage features “AlternaBlues”: blues-influenced roots music with performances by local bands that will include Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band and Jake Speed and the Freddies.

The Aug. 2 shows run from 2:30 p.m until midnight for $10 (Blues Society members free). The headliner is Watermelon Slim and the Workers, along with Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Sugar Blue, Gina Sicilia, Lisa Otey, Sue Palmer, Wendy DeWitt, Luther G. Williams, Matt Wigler, Bob Seeley, Marc Braun, Liz Pennock and Dr. Blues, Rob Rio and more.All proceeds go to the Cincy Blues Society to help fund their Blues in the Schools program, educating area local students from elementary through high school on the history and styles of Blues music.For more information visit http://www.cincyblues.org/.

Arizona Dialy Star - MUSIC NOTES

2008-04-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

Accent
MUSIC NOTES
Baroque, Romantic pieces at Organ Series concert
Tucson, Arizona Published: 03.28.2008

Leave it to Tucson blueswoman, boogie-woogie practitioner and piano tickler Lisa Otey to strike upon an idea that entertains the lot of us.

This time, Otey is hosting a series of piano concerts. Her Piano Series at Z Mansion kicks off Monday and runs through early May.

The series features Otey paired up with other noted Tucson pianists, starting with jazz pianist Susan Artemis on Monday; recent transplant Marilyn Harris, who dabbles in jazz and song parodies, April 7; longtime boogie-woogie charmer Arthur Migliazza, April 21; Gaslight Theatre legend Linda Ackermann, who double-dips in ragtime and classical, April 28; and Chicago transplant and jazz dispenser Judy Roberts, May 5.

The concerts begin at 7 p.m. at Z Mansion, 288 N. Church Ave., Downtown. Admission is $20 per show, or three shows for $50.

For details, call Otey at 370-5912 or visit her Web site, www.lisaotey.com.

Harris will be guest diva with Lisa Otey group | www.azstarnet.com ®

2008-01-18T10:16:00.000-08:00

Harris will be guest diva with Lisa Otey group www.azstarnet.com ®:
Harris will be guest diva with Lisa Otey group
Tucson, Arizona Published: 01.17.2008

Every year about this time, the Desert Divas with Lisa Otey at the helm get together to re- inforce their divadom.

On Saturday, they will be sans a diva; Anna Warr is sitting this one out to rest her voice for her European tour next month. But Otey will sing alongside her other sisters — Hurricane Carla, Liz McMahon, Diane Van Deurzen and Regina "the Queen."

They will be backed by Rich Nordenberg on bass and Jon Westfall on drums, with special guest diva the campy cabaret singer/pianist Marilyn Harris. Saturday's concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway.

Tickets are $25-$30 in advance, $20 for Tucson Jazz Society members online at www.lisaotey.com or by callinbg 370-5912.

Locals feel the love in Europe | www.azstarnet.com ®

2007-12-18T21:14:00.000-08:00

Locals feel the love in Europe www.azstarnet.com ®:
"Caliente
taxing, yet rewarding
Locals feel the love in Europe
By Gerald M. Gay
ggay@azstarnet.com
Tucson, Arizona Published: 12.13.2007"

And when local blues pianist Lisa Otey isn't tickling the ivories in the Old Pueblo, you can find her playing clubs and festivals with audiences topping out at 30,000 strong in Germany, Belgium, France and Spain.
Otey began touring overseas as an accompanist for Los Angeles-based blues musician Candye Kane in 2000, eventually earning invites of her own from club and festival promoters .
Otey has hit Europe at least once a year since. She knew she was developing a significant fan base when she heard people were driving three to four hours just to see her.
"In Europe everything is so close together," she explained. "An hour is usually as far as most people are willing to go."

Otey said networking has definitely helped her spread her wings. Over the years, the sultry singer has formed relationships with artists like Dutch pianist Eric-Jan Overbeek, also known as Mr. Boogie Woogie, who helped set up her tours early on.

In turn, Otey has helped Mr. Boogie Woogie with shows in Tucson and has worked with him to assist at least half a dozen Tucson musicians in getting their own tours started.

It was through their support that bassist Steve Grams first began touring the Netherlands with acoustic duo partner Danny Krieger in 2003. He has made several returns with Krieger and just came back from a trip through England, Ireland and the Netherlands with another local group, the Bad News Blues Band.
If he didn't have family ties in Tucson, Grams said, he would have moved to Europe years ago. He said performing music over there has nothing to do with the pay, which he believes is on a par with the pay in the States, and everything to do with the respect musicians receive in Europe.

"By the time we (The Bad News Blues Band) paid for this and that, the pay was probably not as good as if we had stayed home that month," Grams said. "But where would you rather be, Ireland or Pima County? I know people who go there and lose money just because they want to play to an audience that appreciates it and gets it.

"The people you meet there, professional and amateur musicians, club owners, audiences, know more about American music than most of my musician friends. You can play a small pub on a Tuesday night that holds 50 people and there will be 100 people there. You can't get 50 people to go out on a Saturday night in this town."

YouTube - KKL Blues Lucerne Festival Off-Stage Piano

2007-12-08T09:09:00.000-08:00

YouTube - KKL Blues Lucerne Festival Off-Stage Piano

Alki at the Lucerne Festival Off-Stage Piano in Lucerne, Switzerland with Lisa Otey

Alki won the gold medal at the 2007 Lucerne Piano Playoffs. The woman guffawing in the background is one of the judges.

Best Of Tucson 2007

2007-09-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

http://www.tucsonweekly.com/gbase/Best/MainFrame?year=2007&oid=100809

Lisa Otey's upbeat jazz, blues and boogie-woogie music could turn a group of zombies back to the living. Instead of shuffling and moaning, they'd be bopping and grooving to her music. Otey has won numerous awards, including Composer of the Year, the Arizona Blues Showdown Championship and numerous TAMMIES. A member of the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame, the singer, songwriter and pianist also has her own independent label, Owl's Nest Productions. Whether performing with Diane Van Deurzen at a blues brunch, with several performers in a Vegas-inspired musical cabaret show or with the Desert Divas, Otey pleases the most discriminating audiences--even those without a pulse.

AZNightBuzz.com : Blues/jazz diva Lisa Otey marks 40th birthday with tuneful bash

2007-07-06T06:29:00.000-07:00

AZNightBuzz.com : Blues/jazz diva Lisa Otey marks 40th birthday with tuneful bash:

"Blues/jazz diva Lisa Otey marks 40th birthday with tuneful bash"
By Cathalena E.. Burch
cburch@azstarnet.com
Tucson, Arizona Published: 05.24.2007

How does Tucson's piano-tickling, blues/jazz diva extraordinaire celebrate her landmark 40th birthday?
Why, with music, silly.
On June 2 the Tucson Jazz Society is helping Lisa Otey throw herself a birthday bash to mark her recent foray into the land of 40-something.
On the eve of turning 40 last Friday, we caught up with Otey about her "big" event.
So, a colleague of mine wants to know how many times you've celebrated turning 40.
"This is my first."
Are you freaking out?
"I always think of every year as a great accomplishment. So I'm thrilled with it. Just to make it through another year. My life is wonderful; there's nothing that I dread. Some people have a big buildup to this, and they start noticing how their bodies are changing. I'm just excited to be here."
When you were a kid, what was your impression of people who were 40?
"I never really thought about people by their ages. I always hung out with people who were all ages. My friends cover the whole gamut. I still think of myself as a baby."
Chronologically or mentally?
"Both."
So on this monumental landmark, are you where you imagined you'd be in your career and personal life?
"Well, I remember when I came here in 1984 to go to college and my roommate asked me what I was going to do. I said, 'I want to play piano.' She said, 'What if it doesn't work out?' 'Well, it has to. That's all I know.' It's worked out. Everything I've ever wanted has come true. . . . You never can plan it. That's the beautiful and courageous thing about making a living with music. So far, everything has worked out fine."
What's your 40th birthday wish?
"That everybody buys a ticket to my concert. And then they can all have cake."
How do you plan to spend the day after the big party?
"I want to say unwrapping all my gifts, but my gift will be everyone coming to my concert. How about basking in the glow?"
What are your plans for the next 40 years?
"To know that I'm on the road to happiness. I want to continue to travel and make music. I also want to spend a little more time at home.
"I'm a very romantic person, and being on the road alone is not the most romantic thing. Tucson has been a wonderful place for a musician to live, because it's been so supportive.
"So many people say they can't get recognition at home, that they have to travel to make a living. That's not true here. I feel embraced by the whole community, and also there's tremendous support for me to take my wings and fly all over the place."

Blues/jazz diva Lisa Otey marks 40th birthday with tuneful bash

2007-05-24T14:52:00.000-07:00

Thursday, May 24, 2007

AZNightBuzz.com :
Blues/jazz diva Lisa Otey marks 40th birthday with tuneful bash

Published: 05.24.2007
Blues/jazz diva Lisa Otey marks 40th birthday with tuneful bash
By Cathalena E.. Burch
CBURCH@AZSTARNET.COM

How does Tucson's piano-tickling, blues/jazz diva extraordinaire celebrate her landmark 40th birthday?
Why, with music, silly.

On June 2 the Tucson Jazz Society is helping Lisa Otey throw herself a birthday bash to mark her recent foray into the land of 40-something.

On the eve of turning 40 last Friday, we caught up with Otey about her "big" event.

So, a colleague of mine wants to know how many times you've celebrated turning 40.
"This is my first."

Are you freaking out?
"I always think of every year as a great accomplishment. So I'm thrilled with it. Just to make it through another year. My life is wonderful; there's nothing that I dread. Some people have a big buildup to this, and they start noticing how their bodies are changing. I'm just excited to be here."

When you were a kid, what was your impression of people who were 40?
"I never really thought about people by their ages. I always hung out with people who were all ages. My friends cover the whole gamut. I still think of myself as a baby."

Chronologically or mentally?
"Both."

So on this monumental landmark, are you where you imagined you'd be in your career and personal life?
"Well, I remember when I came here in 1984 to go to college and my roommate asked me what I was going to do. I said, 'I want to play piano.' She said, 'What if it doesn't work out?' 'Well, it has to. That's all I know.' It's worked out. Everything I've ever wanted has come true. . . . You never can plan it. That's the beautiful and courageous thing about making a living with music. So far, everything has worked out fine."
What's your 40th birthday wish?
"That everybody buys a ticket to my concert. And then they can all have cake."

How do you plan to spend the day after the big party?
"I want to say unwrapping all my gifts, but my gift will be everyone coming to my concert. How about
basking in the glow?"

What are your plans for the next 40 years?
"To know that I'm on the road to happiness. I want to continue to travel and make music. I also want to spend a little more time at home.
"I'm a very romantic person, and being on the road alone is not the most romantic thing. Tucson has been a wonderful place for a musician to live, because it's been so supportive.
"So many people say they can't get recognition at home, that they have to travel to make a living. That's not true here. I feel embraced by the whole community, and also there's tremendous support for me to take my wings and fly all over the place."

Lisa Otey in 'A Night Alone With You'
• When: 7 p.m. June 2
• Where: Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave.
• Cost: $20 advance, $15 for Tucson Jazz Society members, by calling 370-5912; $25 at the door.

'Love, Janis' a boomers' dreamy flashback | www.azstarnet.com ®

2007-03-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

'Love, Janis' a boomers' dreamy flashback www.azstarnet.com ®:

'Love, Janis' a boomers' dreamy flashback
By Kathleen Allen
Arizona Daily Star
Tucson, Arizona Published: 03.26.2007

"Tucson's Lisa Otey ripped up the keyboards with a bluesy command. "

Tubac Jazz, Blues Fest scheduled for March 31

2007-03-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

Tubac Jazz, Blues Fest scheduled for March 31
Friday, March 16, 2007 9:27 AM PDT

Covering all of Santa Cruz County, AZ - Nogales International

Art and history will meet again when the Tubac Jazz and Blues Festival returns to Parque de Anza on Saturday, March 31, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m."Following the tremendous success of last year's inaugural festival, the event promises to be an extraordinary day of musical performances that are not to be missed," a spokesman said.Brasher Real Estate, the Tucson Jazz Society and the Tubac Chamber of Commerce will present the event featuring: From 10 a.m-10:45 a.m. swing to the big band music of JAZZWERX; from 11 .am.-11:30 a.m. enjoy young talent with the Rio Rico High School Jazz Band; from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. savor the sounds of Lisa Otey and the Desert Divas; from 12:45 p.m.-1:30 p.m. the contemporary jazz group and Grammy-nominated Les Baxter Factor takes the stage; from 1:45p.m.-2:30 p.m. "Blues, Brazilian and Bop" with Soundscape Sedona; from 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m. relish straight ahead jazz with Joe Bourne and the Tucson All-Stars; from 3:45 p.m.-5 p.m. the Phoenix Jazz Divas will bring the festivities to a rousing finale.Tickets are $28 per adult, $14 for children 12 and under, and are available online at www.TubacJazz.com.Tickets will also be available through the Tucson Jazz Society (520) 903-1265, and the Tubac Chamber of Commerce (520) 398-2704.Seating and visors will be provided.

Sultry blues at baggage claim | www.azstarnet.com ®

2007-03-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Sultry blues at baggage claim www.azstarnet.com ®:

Sultry blues at baggage claim
By M. Scot Skinner
skinner@azstarnet.com
Tucson, Arizona Published: 03.15.2007
advertisement
OAS_AD('300x250_1')

When Tucson International Airport put out a call for musicians who wanted to perform in its remodeled baggage-claim area, the first one who phoned was Lisa Otey.

A blues vocalist and pianist who has performed at countless venues in the Old Pueblo over the years, Otey was promptly booked — but that's not all.

A go-getter of the first order, Otey gave TIA some pointers and helped put this unusual concert series together, said Paula Winn, a spokeswoman for the airport.

Otey kicked off the Live at Tucson International Airport series with an hourlong set Monday afternoon. Standing at the keyboard and with her voice sounding as strong, sultry and nuanced as ever, she performed "Stormy Weather," "Georgia on My Mind" and other jazz standards. At one point, she even managed to get a call-and-response thing going.

"Welcome to Tucson," she said, playfully interacting with travelers. "For those arriving on United flight 1208 from Denver, your bags will arrive shortly on Carousel Three."
She laughed.
"I always wanted to be an announcer," she said.

Otey, among the hardest-working divas in town, seemed to take seriously her role as the airport's tuneful greeter for the hour.
"Before y'all head out into that hot sun, relax and have yourself an iced mocha or maybe a cookie," she said.

Along the way, she plugged Arizona Theatre Company's "Love, Janis," which opens in previews next Thursday and continues through April 9 at the Temple of Music and Art. Otey plays keyboards and sings backing vocals in the production.

Otey saluted the Janis Joplin musical with a lively, fresh take on "Me and Bobby McGee."
The day after the airport show, she looked back and called it "a cool gig."
"Some folks treated it like a brown bag concert. We had about 10 that came just for the show."

The crowds will be a bit larger on March 31 when Lisa Otey and the Desert Divas perform at the Tubac Jazz & Blues Festival. The ensemble should hit the stage at 11:45 a.m.
For information about other upcoming shows, go to www.lisaotey.com.

Forget dinner and a show; try these Valentine's dates | www.azstarnet.com ®

2007-01-29T17:37:00.000-08:00

Forget dinner and a show; try these Valentine's dates www.azstarnet.com ®:

Forget dinner and a show; try these Valentine's dates
By Gerald M. Gay
ggay@azstarnet.com
Tucson, Arizona Published: 01.25.2007

"You already make beautiful music together. Take a break and watch others make it with a trip to Z Mansion, 288 N. Church Ave., for some 'Hot Love,' the third installment of a series that looks at the sensual side of music. "

La voz y el estilo de Lisa Otey llegan a Málaga

2006-12-15T06:32:00.001-08:00

http://www.20minutos.es/noticia/181027/voz/estilo/Lisa/

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CONTRATOS JAZZ-BLUES

La voz y el estilo de Lisa Otey llegan a Málaga

E. I. 12.12.2006 - 01:41h

Dicen que es la cantante preferida de Tucson (Arizona), y la realidad es que su personal estilo –una mezcla entre Elvis, Billie Holiday y el hot jazz piano– es cada vez más apreciado en el mundo del jazz y el blues por su sofisticación y sensualidad.

Este amante de la música está atado al toque de la guitarra(Pezdoble).

Se ha hecho merecedora de muchos premios, incluyendo los Tammies.

Su voz sonará esta noche en el Centro Cultural Provincial acompañada por un contrabajo y una batería. Una oportunidad única.

* Centro Cultural Provincial. C/ Ollerías, s/n. A las 21.00 h. 1,5 €.

20minutos.es El primer periódico que no se vende

Lisa Otey's 'Hot Love' | www.tucsoncitizen.com (r)

2006-07-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

Lisa Otey's 'Hot Love' www.tucsoncitizen.com ®

Published: 07.17.2006

Lisa Otey's 'Hot Love'

Audience participation big part of passion show

HEIDI ROWLEY
Tucson Citizen

Strawberries and cream with a hint of sweet seduction were just the pre-show over the weekend at Tucson singer Lisa Otey's cabaret show, "Hot Love."

Seven performers sang love songs while serenading, caressing and flirting with audience members.

Tucsonan Robert Weidensaul sat two rows back in the intimate table- and-chairs setting and was picked on several times by cast members.

They hugged him, rubbed his face or played with his hair during Sunday's show, attended by more than 70 people.

"I like interacting," he said with a smile afterward. "It was very enjoyable."

Regina Wills' solo, "The First Time I Saw Your Face," captured his heart, he said.

"This cast took an ordinary Sunday summer afternoon and turned it into something special," said Tucsonan Barbara Russek. "This was so sparkly."

Russek attended the show with three friends from Sierra Vista.

Her friends took part in the pre-show when cast members Jaime Walker and Zach Sparrow walked from table to table, feeding strawberries and whipped cream to willing parties.

"This is outstanding," said Lissa Staples before the show.

She said that she and her tablemates engaged in a candy fight with the free M&Ms that were on every table.

The table decorations also included Hershey's Kisses and rose petals.

"We wanted to make sure all their senses were filled," cast member Diane Van Deurzen said. "It's intimate and close, so they felt passion and love before the show even started."

The show included songs and poems, all encompassing the theme of love and passion.

Among the numbers: "It's Too Hot for Words," "Makin' Whoopee" and "Fever."

During the song "Hungry," audience members were again fed strawberries and cream by Todd Luethjohann, who was singing at the time.

Three more performances will be held next weekend.

Some of the poems were written by Van Deurzen and Wills.

"I wanted it to be love in all its diversity," Otey said. "I wanted everyone to feel all warm and cuddly and fuzzy."

Gary Syers and Patricia Thorson, who were celebrating her birthday, called the cabaret experience "a warm, loving place."

Comments on this Story Write a letter to the Editor 2 Total Comments — See All Comments

1. Comment by alex c. (#4381) — July 17,2006 @ 1:48PM

The photo has me singing "Jenny Craig"

2. Comment by mstr e. (#6610) — July 17,2006 @ 3:22PM

some people have to much time and money to kill

Pick of the Week - Diva Delight

2006-05-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Tucson Weekly Print Friendly: http://www.tucsonweekly.com/gbase/cityweek/Content?oid=82104

PUBLISHED ON MAY 11, 2006:

Pick of the Week

Diva Delight

By IRENE MESSINA

Lisa Otey and the Desert Divas

When Lisa Otey was a child, there was no question what her future career would be. At the age of 4, she was asked by her musician parents what instrument she would like to play. As Otey recalls, she wasn't asked if she wanted to play, but what she wanted to play.

Years later, as a UA student studying with jazz pianist Jeff Haskell, Otey's roommate asked what her future plans were. When Otey replied that she wanted to play the piano, her roommate asked what she would do if it didn't work out. "I have to play," said Otey. "That's all I know how to do."

Some 20 years later, Otey is still playing strong. With many CDs and awards under her belt, including several TAMMIES (including 1997 Musician of the Year), the 2000 Arizona Composer of the Year award and a 2001 Arizona Blues Hall of Fame induction, Otey shows no signs of slowing down. Her independent record label, Owl's Nest Productions, celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2004.

About six years ago, Otey was asked by artistic director Susan Claassen to perform at Invisible Theatre's Sizzling Summer Sounds series. Claassen wanted to tribute favorite divas. Otey invited local female performers to join her, and Claassen named them the Desert Divas.

Today's Divas are a different crew from the original lineup. They are: Hurricane Carla (Carla Brownlee), Anna Warr, Diane Van Deurzen, Regina "The Queen" Wills, Liz McMahon and Otey. (Member Kathleen Williamson moved to New York.)

For Otey, the group is a wish come true. "I was wanting to do a show with all women. It gave me that opportunity to showcase that area. ... When I had the idea to do this, Anna and Carla were the first ones on my list. ... It's a great showcase for everyone. They get an opportunity to be seen in a large group as this. Every person can carry the show. It's a group of headliners."

Hurricane Carla has been a member of Tony and the Torpedoes, Kings of Pleasure and the Carnivaleros (according to cdbaby.com). Besides wailing on her saxophone, Carla sings with "a classic '40s and '50s sound," says Otey. "She (produces) a powerful saxophone sound and has a voice like Peggy Lee."

Deemed "The Goddess of Love," Anna Warr has been a staple of the Tucson music scene for the past 20 years. "I got to watch her grow as a performer," says Otey. "She has (the audience) in the palm of her hand. She has a voice like Etta James."

Diane Van Deurzen has been helping Otey behind the scenes with the Divas for the past five years. After performing as a guest Diva, Van Deurzen officially joined the group last year. Otey and Van Deurzen have been singing together for the past six years at St. Francis in the Foothills. "I love singing with her," says Otey. "She has so much to offer."

Regina "The Queen" Wills also joined the Divas last year after performing as a guest Diva. She was introduced to Otey by friends. "She kept her talent quiet. Her friends said she had to let it out. (When I first heard her), she was just amazing. It's great to see her shine," says Otey.

Liz McMahon has left the group temporarily to star in Invisible Theatre's Cookin' With Gus. She'll be back with the Divas later this year. "We will miss her this time," says Otey. "We wish her a great run."

The Desert Divas perform "a fun mixture of songs," explains Otey. "It's all about embracing the diva within. The songs are positive and affirming. We don't have a lot of songs about heartache."

A performance is likely to include the group's original songs, plus popular songs with blues, pop, rock and R&B styles. The singers put their own influence into each song with diva-like interpretations. On their 2004 release, Viva la Diva!, there's a bluesy, soulful interpretation of '70s hit "Disco Inferno" that gets the audience hopping.

"It's always a high-energy show," says Otey. "We range in age from 35 to 50. It empowers women in the audience. Women our age think you have to be 20-something to do this. Women tell us how empowering it is. They realize there is no reason they can't do what they want to do."

Encouragement also extends to new singers. Otey likes to have special guest Divas perform, and oftentimes, one is a younger performer. Past performers have been Elise Ackermann, daughter of Gaslight Theatre's musical director Linda Ackermann, and a young dance group from India.

Inspiring others seems to be something that Otey does naturally with her positive mindset. "In 20 years, if I thought I'd like to do something such as play at a bar, get invited to play at a festival or on a record ... it all happened. I know that if I put the thought out there, I know I can trust that the opportunity will come. You have to trust that things will be OK. When you put your dreams out there, they meet you half way."

Lisa Otey and the Desert Divas will perform a "Diva-Day Celebration" concert at 7 p.m., Saturday, May 13, at Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Blvd. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 at the door, $18 in advance, $15 for Tucson Jazz Society members, $10 for graduates and children 12 and younger. Tickets are available online at http://www.lisaotey.com/, by calling 370-5912, or at the door.

REVIEWS AROUND THE WORLD

2005-12-15T08:40:00.000-08:00

REVIEWS AROUND THE WORLD "La cantant preferida de Tucson, Lisa Otey, canta amb un estil molt personal, tenyit d'Elvis, Billie Holiday i hot jazz piano. Aquesta cantant plena de talent ha estat anunciada arreu del món pel seu so sofisticat i sensual. El seu progressiu estil de blues ha guanyat molts premis, incloent el de Arizona Compositor de l'Any (2000), Arizona Blues Showdown Campionship (1998), Tammies Music de l'Any (1997) i, sovint, Millor Intèrpret de Tucson. Lisa Otey està esdevenint una estrella i el seu nom cada dia és més apreciat en el món del blues i el jazz.

Nascuda a Baltimore, i filla de músics, va ser educada des de la infantesa en la música, escoltant i tocant tot tipus de música, de clàssica fins a pop. Als 17 anys es trasllada a Tucson per estudiar jazz. El seu estil acull influències ben diverses, incloent Chicago, Nova Orleans, Texas, West Coast i el jazz i el blues del sud-oest.

Tant en les seves actuacions en solitari, com quan toca amb tota la banda, Lisa Otey aplega una gran quantitat de públic. En el seus treballs discogràfics Blame it on my Youth, el premiat Blue Angel, Kitten on the Keys i Gimme Some o yo'Sugar! s'aprecia l'ampli ventall del seu talent. Lisa Otey dóna un aire fresc als vells estàndards i introdueix la seva creativitat amb gran sentit de l'humor en els temes propis."

(MADMA, Roses Jazz, Blues, Gospel Festival, Catalunya, SPAIN)

Finger-snappin' time at the Yardbird
Live jazz rules the stage far from the boy bands and mainstream circuit

Todd Babiak, Edmonton Journal

Thursday, March 07, 2002

The Yardbird Suite, 11 Tommy Banks Way

Volunteer bartenders Leah Tolton and Luc Bouchard at the Yardbird Suite.

Aggressiveness quotient: We don't give receipts!
Snootiness factor: Handshakes and hugs
Genre: Jazz

Jazz is a blend of individualism and compromise. Fifty years ago, there were no greater metaphors for American democracy than the Mississippi River and jazz. If the genre has not lost its charisma and soul since Chuck Berry and Elvis changed everything, jazz has lost its cultural centrality. For most of us, bop is little more than a curiosity.

For everyone else, there is the Yardbird Suite. If you are sick of the boy bands, video screens, breast implants, second-hand smoke and neon booze advertisements of the mainstream nightclub scene, try some live jazz. The Yardbird Suite is the talented, pudgy kid with glasses peeking around the corner at all the drunken brutes of Whyte Avenue, wondering why they keep barfing in the garbage bins and punching each other in the face.

"This is technically a private members' club," says house manager Danielle Burns. Like everyone else working at the Yardbird tonight, Burns is a volunteer, which makes it difficult to complain about the service. "But we welcome anyone who wants to come check us out."

Burns says that everything about the Yardbird Suite is unique, but most peculiar is the smell inside. Microwaved popcorn replaces cigarette smoke as the dominant odor. This either says the Yardbird is the most progressive bar in the city or that jazz is in big, big trouble. Remember Dean Moriarty in On The Road, ripping his shirt off in the jazz clubs and howling about Charlie Parker, the wild god of the beat generation? Despite the fact that the Yardbird Suite was named after a Parker song, all the sweaty, smoky, improvisational madness has been replaced by the suburban scent of microwaved popcorn.

The tables are close together, so it is easy to make new friends as you watch and listen. Even if you don't make friends, you are close enough to hear your neighbours' stomachs gurgling when Lisa Otey plays the quiet parts of My Funny Valentine. You can appreciate the exact tenor of their sniffles and coughs, and during the intermission you can hear about their plans to go for brunch at the High Level Diner if the husband's cystitis isn't acting up.

Near the stage, a few tables are pushed together for Yardbird regulars, the enthusiasts. They have a bottle of gold-label Wolf Blass to share. A positive correlation between wine consumption and audience participation is evident in this zone, as random shouts of "woo," "Lord," "damn" and "smokin' " increase in volume and intensity as the evening progresses.

If the average age at the Yardbird is 45, it's being pulled downward by a new generation of easy listeners. Julie Stinchcombe, 9, is here because she met bluesy pianist Lisa Otey at the Old Strathcona Farmer's Market. Stinchcombe is looking for inspiration, according to her dad. When I ask if she will play here at the Yardbird one day, Stinchcombe looks toward the stage and replies, "Yeah."

The clean-breathing patrons of the Yardbird Suite move their heads from side to side, snap their fingers and sing along. Their animal-print shirts and black leather pants illuminated by candles and elegant blue lights, the hep cats shimmy in their seats and stand up occasionally for ovations and accolades.

As Lisa Otey plays, her velvet shawl keeps falling off her shoulders. We can't stop looking at her, or laughing generously at her jokes. Most of her songs are about someone named Baby, and many of us know that person and nod our heads about leaving him, or her. When Otey leaves the stage for the intermission, a bearded man stands up and turns around, faces the crowd, wipes his brow and says, "Whoa. I need some popcorn."

Masterclass blueszangeres
in Theater de Kloostertuin

Op zaterdag 26 januari a.s. organiseert de muziekafdeling van Kunstencentrum het Klooster een masterclass door de beroemde Amerikaanse blueszangeres/pianiste Lisa Otey in Theater de Kloostertuin.
De masterclass begint om 11.00 uur en duurt circa anderhalf uur.
Lisa Otey, geboren in Baltimore, MD in 1967, groeide op op het platteland van Portland, OR. Haar familie bestond voornamelijk uit muzikanten die haar muzikale talenten van jongs af aan stimuleerden. Van klassiek tot pop en ook musical werd door haar beluisterd en gespeeld. Op 17-jarige leeftijd verhuisde ze naar Tucson, AZ om jazz te gaan studeren aan de University of Arizona. Ze speelde met vele lokale theatergroepen en muzikanten om zo haar eigen stijl te ontwikkelen. Een stijl die ze zelf omschrijft als een opwindende mix van Elvis en Billie Holliday aangevuld door stuwende barrelhouse- en hot jazz piano en blues.
Lisa Otey is een echte "crowd-pleaser" en won vele prijzen, zoals 2001 Tammies Best Keyboards en 2000 Arizona Composer of the Year. Ook zijn er al diverse cd-opnames van haar op de markt.
Van 22 tot en met 28 januari is zij op toernee door Nederland en België. Op 26 januari geeft ze tijdens de masterclass in Theater de Kloostertuin les aan een drietal zangleerlingen van Kunstencentrum het Klooster die dit jaar deelnemen aan de VSB fonds talentenklas van het kunstencentrum.
Wilt u de masterclass van deze bijzondere zangeres/pianiste ook bijwonen, dan kunt u kaarten reserveren à € 7,- bij de receptie van Kunstencentrum het Klooster, telefoon 0348 - 423066 of e-mail info@kloosterwoerden.nl.

"Finding good authentic blues in Tucson Arizona can be a great chore for the local blues lover. If you happen to catch Lisa Otey and her band belting out blues from her latest CD Hard Working' Woman you will be in blues heaven. Her classic brassy voice mixed with wonderfully composed piano, bass, guitar, and percussion blend into an authentic American Blues sound. The Band consists of Lisa Otey (piano, vocal), Steve Grams (bass), and Jon Westfall (drums)." (Blues, Brews, and Barbeques)

"Lisa Otey's added vocals on tracks like "Memphis Afternoon" and the title track create the effect of two kites flying in harmony. Her piano playing on the title track gives a gentle reassurance to the song like a mother stroking your hair and whispering encouragement. Some very nice arranging here." (review of Eric Hansen's CD, Hero in the Dark,written by Paul Katona III, Music Supervisor, Borders Books & Music)

Owl's Nest Productions^® of Tucson, Arizona

Lisa Otey is back - and busy

2005-04-21T09:46:00.000-07:00

Lisa Otey is back - and busy
April 21, 2005 •• 189 words •• ID: MERLIN_2702178
$2.95 - Arizona Daily Star - NewsBank - Apr 21, 2005

Blues queen Lisa Otey has been all over the world - literally - in recent months, touring throughout Europe, the Netherlands and Dubai. You'd think she'd come home to Tucson, plop down on the couch and watch some really bad reality TV. Not a chance. Tucson's hardest-working musician is throwing her own welcome-home party with two concerts on Saturday. Early this year, Otey took a run through Germany with German-based label Ruf Records' ...

Lisa Otey celebrating CD release

2004-05-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

Lisa Otey celebrating CD release
May 14, 2004 •• 218 words •• ID: MERLIN_2046252
$2.95 - Arizona Daily Star - NewsBank - May 14, 2004

Ten years ago, Tucson's true divas, Kathleen Williamson and Lisa Otey, decided to spread their creative wings and enter the wacky, wonderful and often frustrating world of recording arts and sciences. Thus was born Owl's Nest Productions, the pair's Tucson-based record label that boasts eight efforts, including a new Otey and the Desert Divas live disc, "Viva la Diva!" Otey will celebrate the CD's release and ...

Hard work pays off for singer/songwriter

2001-12-13T09:37:00.000-08:00

Local Music Source

Listen to music from Lisa Otey's album "Hard Workin' Woman"

Hard Workin' Woman (mp3)
Hard Workin' Woman (RealAudio)

Xena for Xmas (mp3)
Xena for Xmas (RealAudio)

I can see the new view (mp3)
I can see the new view (RealAudio)

Rockin' with Red (mp3)
Rockin' with Red (RealAudio)

Here's to Life (mp3)
Here's to Life (RealAudio)

For more information on Lisa Otey:

Otey concocts blues, jazz, 'Green Eggs & Ham'

CD Review: Lisa Otey's "Blue Angel," Owl's Nest Productions

CD Review: Lisa Otey's "Blame It On My Youth," Owl's Nest Productions'

Hard work pays off for singer/songwriter

A.J. FLICK
The Tucson Citizen
Dec. 13, 2001
What on Earth could Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony and Xena and Gabrielle have in common?
They're all hardworking women, Lisa Otey and Candye Kane cheerfully sing on the title track of Otey's new CD, "Hard Workin' Woman."
"I really liked the idea of putting Xena in there with Susan B. Anthony," says Otey, laughing, escaping a drizzly fall day and sipping an eggnog milkshake at Little Anthony's Diner last week.
You might get the impression that Otey is somewhat of a Xena fanatic, having dropped the TV superhero's name in "Hard Workin' Woman" as well as "Xena for Xmas." And you'd be right.
"When I'm in a particular situation, I think, 'What would Xena do?' " Otey says. "'How would Xena handle this?' It's the best TV show I've ever seen! It's the best in the history of television! It's got the best love story!"
Otey got hooked on the "Xena: Warrior Princess" TV show when Gaslight Theatre, where she is musical director, launched a spoof of the adventure fantasy show. She scheduled her dinners around the show, only to find "Baywatch" in its place when the syndicated "Xena" was canceled. Otey was crushed and poured her emotions into her jazzy novelty tribute, "Xena for Xmas."
"Santa, I want Xena for Christmas/I want to watch her go head over heels over Gabrielle every night./And Santa, would you talk to the network?/We need to know that the battle for good over evil will turn out all right."
Even if "Xena" is never seen on television again, Otey will be all right, rest assured. She's riding a current wave of success with her music. This year, she performed at the Cognac Blues Passions Festival in France; the Roses Blues, Jazz & Gospel Festival in Spain; Rock Bend Folk Festival in Minnesota; and made her Canadian concert debut. In March, she will make her concert debut in Holland.
In addition, she was named to the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame and appears on Kane's new CD, "The Toughest Girl Alive."
Otey's music is played on more than 300 radio stations worldwide, as close as Phoenix and as far away as Australia.
"I've got as much airplay as anyone on Alligator," she says, referring to the world's best-known blues record label.
Yet should someone from Alligator or any other big label come calling, Otey wouldn't hesitate to switch from her own indie label, Owl's Nest Productions.
"Absolutely!" she says, leaning forward.
She sighs with the thought of having someone else handle all the business necessities that come with a busy career.
"Every year gets more incredible than the one before," says Otey, who left the hand-to-mouth existence of a struggling musician behind eight years ago when Gaslight hired her for its year-round productions. "Just when I think it can't possibly get any better, it does."
Otey's circle of contacts has widened each year, exposing her music to more and more people and getting her ever closer to the possibility that she may make the leap to a big music label.
She met Kane about two years ago, when the buxom blues diva needed a local keyboardist for a concert at the Rialto Theatre. When they met, Otey knew that she had to write a duet. A subsequent tour in the Southwest playing with Kane solidified their relationship. Hence, "Hard Workin' Woman."
Otey's new CD contains a who's who of local musicians. Of course, there's Otey's longtime friend/collaborator, fiddler Heather Hardy, on "Hard Workin' Woman," and the wistful "My Funny Valentine."
Hurricane Carla Brownlee, Otey's co-musical director at Gaslight, lends her sax to "Tonight I'll Dream" and "Rockin' With Red." Otey's frequent partner in crime Kathleen Williamson co-wrote two songs, "Don't Make a Scene, Kathleen" and "I Can See the New View," a tribute to the victims of Sept. 11.
Stefan George brought his dobro in on "Song for Eva," which Otey wrote about a homeless woman in Tucson. Sam Taylor plays guitar on "Don't Make a Scene" (in which the Invisible Theatre's Susan Claassen is the voice of St. Peter) and Ada Redd Austin lent her R&B vocals for "You Got a Friend Right Here."
And, as usual, Otey called on her talented brother, David, to add his trombone to several cuts, including "Maybe We'll Be Lucky," "Rockin' With Red" and "Sittin' on the Back Porch."
Otey usually pounds out a CD in short time, she says, but took longer putting this one together because of the chance to collaborate with Kane. Ten songs were in the bag when Otey realized she wanted two more, which became the Williamson collaborations.
"I wanted to do something about Sept. 11," Otey says, "but I didn't want anything that sounded trite. So I said to Kathleen, 'You're from New York, you write something about it.' "
Williamson came up with the hook from a report about a little girl who lives near Ground Zero in New York City, showing her dad the scene outside their window and saying, "I can see the new view."
Otey admits to being a bit intimidated by the thought of putting her music to someone else's words. Otey gave Williamson the opportunity to offer suggestions on the resulting music, but Williamson was more than satisfied with the final song.
Details: http://www.lisaotey.com/.

TUCSON CITIZEN CLASSICAL FOLK ROCK JAZZ TRADITIONAL

Ladies Sing The Blues - Tucson Weekly

2000-01-27T09:57:00.000-08:00

Tucson Weekly Print Friendly: http://www.tucsonweekly.com/gbase/music/Content?oid=42131

PUBLISHED ON JANUARY 27, 2000:

Ladies Sing The Blues

Vocalists Mollie O'Brien And Lisa Otey Perform At The Berger Center.

By ANGELA MCCORMICK-OWEN

MOLLIE O'BRIEN IS originally from Wheeling, West Virginia, and it echoes in her voice, which is as clear and pure as mountain air. Various peregrinations, from New York to Denver, where she now resides, have also left their imprint. Her music reflects influences from each of these cities, resulting in a sophisticated blend of Americana and blues in a style that resonates with both power and ease. O'Brien appears Friday at the Berger Performing Arts Center for a show billed as "An Evening of Women and the Blues." She and her band will share the stage with local blues and jazz pianist/songstress Lisa Otey for an evening sure to delight fans of blues, jazz and American roots music alike.

Touring in support of her latest release, Big Red Sun (Sugar Hill Records), O'Brien allows her voice full reign on gems like Memphis Minnie's "In My Girlish Days" and Lucinda Williams' "Big Red Sun Blues," and further unleashes it for a romp on Chuck Berry's "Brown-Eyed Handsome Man." Following her Tucson performance, O'Brien will head to Los Angeles for a couple of shows, but isn't in the habit of commiting to extended tours. Maintaining a balance between her music and motherhood, she says, "I usually go out for weekends rather than long tours. I have children, so I try to be home during the week."

O'Brien's first introduction to music came with her childhood piano lessons, but the influences that would later inspire her own career didn't arrive until her teens. "I was in high school during the '60s folk boom," she says. "I heard a lot of Peter, Paul and Mary, Bob Dylan, the Beatles...I saw them all on shows like Ed Sullivan and listened to the records. From there I started playing coffee houses, folk masses, basically anyplace that I could."

The formative music education O'Brien received with her early piano lessons is something she treasures. "I would be horrified if there was no music education in the schools today. I think that exposure to the arts is so important for kids."

Five years have elapsed since O'Brien last graced a Tucson stage, and her enthusiastic local fans are sure to provide a warm welcome on her return. Among her devoted following are KXCI deejay Marty Cool, who's been sharing his love of her "Big Red Sun Blues"with his listeners in recent weeks; and there's no shortage of Tucson Blues Society members who adore her folk, jazz and blues stylings. "I'm looking forward to visiting Tucson," O'Brien relates. "I remember having a great breakfast there. I really liked the hall (Berger Performing Arts Center). You have beautiful weather, too. I look forward to that!"

O'Brien is very comfortable with her mix of styles, and extends her musical diversity to her off-stage life as well. "Right now, I'm listening to Paul Simon at home," she relates. "I would pay big bucks to see Ibrahim Ferrer with the Buena Vista Social Club, and I'd love to go see Beck. I am really into Beck. I tried to take my kids to see Luscious Jackson, but we couldn't go because they are too young. But that would have been fun."

Joining O'Brien are guitarist Nina Gerber and bass player Chris Engleman. An accomplished player, Gerber often accompanies Greg Brown, both on stage and in the studio, and was the guitarist for the late Kate Wolf. Gerber's lovely guitar work holds its own alongside O'Brien's voice.

Opening the evening will be Tucson's own Lisa Otey, performing in support of her fourth CD, gimme some a yo' sugar!, released on her own Owl's Nest Productions label. Otey is currently receiving international airplay and accolades for her sultry, powerful voice, and her jazzy and occasionally raucous piano playing.

A Tucsonan for 15 years, Otey landed in town as a teenager to study with UA prof and noted jazz pianist Jeff Haskell. She is currently the musical director for both the Gaslight Theatre and Project Pastime, a program for Catalina High School's special education department, in conjunction with the Invisible Theater. For the past six years, Otey has directed the music for Project Pastime's touring group, as well as the annual Me Inside of Me music show.

After enduring an eight-week hiatus last year due to a polyp on her vocal cord, a fully recovered Otey is once again enjoying belting out the infamous jazz double-entendres her audience has come to expect. In her current crowd-pleaser, "Got My Modem Workin'," she gives a clever, technological nod to the Muddy Waters classic.

"The loss of my voice last year was quite a spiritual experience for me," Otey says. "I chose not to undergo surgery and risk losing my voice for good, so I had to go for eight weeks without saying a word. Then I had six weeks of speech therapy. I am working with vocal coach Nancy Davis Booth to strengthen the middle part of my range, but all in all I am very lucky."

Catch Mollie O'Brien and Lisa Otey at 8 p.m. Friday, January 28, at the Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Blvd. All seats are reserved. Tickets are $15, $13 for Tucson Blues Society and In Concert! members, and available at Hear's Music, Antigone Books and by phone at 327-4809.

Marvelous Malvina

1999-08-26T09:50:00.000-07:00

Tucson Weekly Print Friendly: http://www.tucsonweekly.com/gbase/music/Content?oid=41501

PUBLISHED ON AUGUST 26, 1999:

Marvelous Malvina

A Bevy Of Local Performers Fondly Remember Folk Inspiration Malvina Reynolds.

By NANCY HAND

MALVINA REYNOLDS " MUST be celebrated," says local musical mainstay Lisa Otey. "She's one of the great songwriters of our times, and her songs are still very relevant today." Otey is one of an impressive line-up of local musicians who will throw a birthday bash this Sunday, August 29, for the revered folk singer. Reynolds, who would've been 99 this month, was best known for songs like "Little Boxes" and "Turn Around," tunes widely recorded by such folk music greats as Pete Seeger, Joan Baez and Judy Collins.

Together with Otey, local artists Eb Eberlein, Linda Lou Reed and Bruce Phillips, among others, will step up to the mike to perform some of Reynolds' songs. The event is co-sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist Church and the Tucson Labor Chorus, and will include a screening of Love It Like a Fool, a 30-minute documentary about Reynolds made in 1976.

"Malvina has a great sense of humor and a great way of presenting her ideas in songs," says Otey. Many of Reynolds' songs, like "Little Boxes," reflect her concern about what she perceived as a breakdown of community; but they do so with humor, and without losing hope.

"When I look at people," said Reynolds in a 1971 workshop, "I think, 'How can they wipe you out? You're beautiful, intelligent, viable creatures who still have your finger on the old strength, the tribal strength. You still have language...You have feeling, you have poetry, you have music.' "

Reverend Stanley Stefancic of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tucson knew Reynolds, who was also a Unitarian. "She used to come to the [church's] general assemblies," remembers Stefancic, "and she would sit down somewhere -- in the hotel lobby or the convention center -- and start playing, and we'd all sing. She was just a wonderful, spirited, extraordinary woman who wrote some great songs. The one that really moved me was one that came out in the '60s that talked about grass growing through concrete, because it expressed hope -- that in the midst of concrete, whether actual concrete or concrete opinions and ideas, there could be new life...there could be growth, there could be hope."

That song, called "God Bless the Grass," will be among those performed by the Tucson Labor Chorus.

A 100th anniversary compilation CD of Reynolds' work will be released next year, and a full length biography is being written by Ellen Stekert.

Reynolds was also a folk philosopher of sorts, writing poems and essays in addition to the hundreds of songs she composed and performed from the 1940s through the '70s. She had a profound belief in the power of music and of language, and like any artist whose art raises social issues, she was sometimes criticized for her commitment. "If you have any faith in human intelligence, in human strength, in the human spirit," said Reynolds, "you have faith in the word. The word can be sung, or it can be said...But the word is part of your weaponry...to protect yourself, and make yourself and be yourself. And I'm going to sing the word, and I'm going to sing it the way I see it."

Reynolds left some advice for those who would remember her after she was gone in her 1961 song "This World": "This old world is mean and cruel/But I still love it like a fool/Don't weep for me when I am gone/just keep this old world rolling on."

The Malvina Reynolds tribute, featuring Lisa Otey, Eb Eberlein, Linda Lou Reed and Bruce Phillips, gathers on Sunday, August 29, at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 4831 E. 22nd St. The event begins with a vegetarian meal at 5:30 p.m., followed by the documentary Love it Like a Fool at 6:30 p.m., and the concert at 7 p.m. For meal reservations, call 623-1688.

Tucson's Top-10 Most Wanted: Lisa Otey (Best of Tucson '98)

1998-12-13T10:44:00.000-08:00

Tucson's Top-10 Most Wanted: Lisa Otey (Best of Tucson '98)

LISA OTEY

Pianist Lisa Otey is a perennial favorite in our Best of Tucson readers' poll. She was named Musician of the Year in the 1997 Tucson Area Music Awards (TAMMIES); and last month became the first solo-act to win the statewide Blues Showdown at the Rhythm Room in Phoenix. She'll represent Arizona in the International Blues Talent competition this October, in Memphis. She's been Music Director at the Gaslight Theatre for six years.

TW: WHAT EVIDENCE DO YOU SEE OF ART MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN PEOPLE'S LIVES?

I also work with the Invisible Theatre, primarily at Catalina High School, with a group of exceptional education students called the Pastime Players. All these kids have challenges with speaking, moving or remembering something. And not only do they have to remember everything we've taught them, but they have a whole week before we see them again. It's great to see how hard they work at memorizing their parts, singing harmonies, getting over their shyness and projecting. The purpose of the whole show is for them to show who they really are, so people don't just see what they look like on the outside.

I think it makes a big difference when kids perform. It raises their self-esteem, gives them confidence. They see they can do things they never thought they could do. And then they get applauded for it--that can only help. That's why it upsets me to see the arts getting cut from the schools, because that's something I think can save a lot of our kids.

There's another group in town that just started, called Coming To, directed by Trishe Dhezny. She started this program in San Francisco, then took it to Seattle, and this year she started it here. I think Dateline did a big story on the group she had in Seattle. She has about five kids in the Tucson program, and they're all recovering from different addictions. They took their stories and put it into a play, which they're performing for kids in different schools around town. The kick-off was September 16 at Tucson High.

It's great, because a lot of times adults go into the schools and they talk about drug addiction and alcoholism, and it's such a turn-off. Kids aren't interested in what some adult has to say. But these kids are all coming from that place--they're the same age. They can at least show them the fear and the pain that they went through, as part of their recovery story.

TW: WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ANNUAL FESTIVAL?

It's impossible to pick only one! First, I'd say the Tucson Blues Festival: It's free, they bring in national acts--the kind of top-notch acts you'd have to pay $30 a day to see elsewhere. About eight or nine bands played last year, and there were about 12,000 people in the park. The Tucson Blues Society offers this wonderful event for free, because they want everybody to be able to come. It's in October.

Another festival that's really great--for kind of the opposite reason in that it's all local--is the Juneteenth Festival, in Kennedy Park. Families come out, and they have wonderful food, and great music that goes all day for three days. It's a great place to see people you don't necessarily get to see around town: everyone from well-knowns like Barbea Williams, Mary Baker and Bloolyte (an excellent jazz-rock group) to things like this martial arts group that incorporated dance and percussion...I can't remember their name. It was amazing, though.

Bernie Starks, who was coordinating the music up until last year, did a great job of mixing (the program). More than an African-American celebration, he made it a celebration of community and diversity. It's probably one of our most underrated, or under-publicized, festivals.

TW: WHICH LOCAL MUSICIANS DO YOU ENJOY WATCHING?

One of my absolute favorite local musicians just passed on, and that was Richard Gomez. He played with Tony and the Torpedoes, with Anna Warr. His style was kind of subtle, but real hip. He would just kind of close his eyes and move around the keyboard. He reminded me of some kind of animal...he was just really cool. Even when he was sick, he was out there playing all the time.

And Anna Warr is one of my favorite singers. She's in her mid-20s, and she's what somebody called "100-percent woman." She's like 6-foot-3 or something, and I think Lebanese and Cherokee is her ethnic mix. She has an incredible voice that just shakes the room. She's got a great growl when she sings the blues, and she sings right from the soles of her feet.

We have so many good performers here. It's great to see everybody doing their thing, like Paul Elia doing his Frank Sinatra bit; and Carla Brownlee, who plays with me all the time on the saxophone. "Hurricane Carla" Brownlee is what they call her. She wrote the play Miss Small-Town Rock & Roll, which we recently did at the Gaslight.

TW: WHERE'S THE BEST PLACE TO HEAR BLUES DONE RIGHT?

The Boondocks is a great bar. They put out a lot of energy, bring in great local acts, and all these touring acts. Terry-O has been instrumental in that. I don't know how he got involved, but I'm glad he did. They're turning it into a really nice place.

TW: ARE THERE ANY UNSUNG HEROES YOU'D LIKE TO PRAISE?

Kathleen Williams works as a judge pro tem at City Court and Justice Court. She's been doing the pro-tem thing for the last five years, and I've gone down to watch her many times. She has a great presence about her...a great way of listening to all sides, and coming up with the best route. She cares a lot about domestic violence cases, and also used to work as a prosecutor down at juvenile court. She worked at the County Attorney downtown for a while, too, in the criminal department. She really is looking out for families and couples--looking for the best way for people to move beyond where they are, and the best way to keep people safe.

...And she's also a singer. She used to perform all the time in Northern Arizona. She doesn't perform enough down here, though we get her to do the Folk Festival once in a while. She gets like Louie Prima when she sings with me. She's really great.

She's also working on her Ph.D. in anthropology, so she definitely has a full plate. But we're very lucky to have her as a magistrate, and I'd like to see her get some recognition.

TW: WHAT'S THE BEST NEW WORK YOU HEARD ABOUT THIS YEAR?

This summer, Lawrence Taylor and Maeze Hickey were working on a documentary book on tunnel kids in Nogales (to be published by UA Press). Maeze is the photographer; Larry is the author. They've volunteered down there, at this "casa" on the Arizona side, for the last two or three summers, spending a lot of time with these kids. This book is mostly about the kids and their stories, and there are great portraits of all of them.

It's also a good reminder how much we're all responsible for our children, even if we don't have families ourselves. That we need to reach out and be involved in the kids in our community, and help keep them. Every one of those kids at some point in their lives had some dream, some talent that they thought they had, something they wanted to do. Somewhere along the way they've forgotten that, and I think it's our responsibility to help them remember it, and nurture it so that they can become that thing. Because that's the only way things are going to get better.

Otey brings strong vocals to her `Blue Angel' album

1996-06-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

Otey brings strong vocals to her `Blue Angel' album
June 14, 1996 •• 639 words •• ID: arch_4466
$2.95 - Arizona Daily Star - NewsBank - Jun 14, 1996

NOTE: STARALBUMS Anyone who has seen and heard jazz and blues artist Lisa Otey around town - and there are plenty of opportunities - knows she's a talented pianist, especially in the stride and ragtime styles. But most remarkable about her second album, ``Blue Angel,'' are her robust vocals and a savvy song selection. Her 1995 debut, ``Blame It on My Youth,'' was an enjoyable album, but a tight focus of intent and excellent ...

Pianist Lisa Otey is grateful for intense schedule

1995-03-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

Pianist Lisa Otey is grateful for intense schedule
Arizona Daily Star
March 24, 1995 •• 781 words •• ID: arch_5442

NOTE: LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT Whether you consider it a blessing or a curse, Lisa Otey is lucky enough to often have several gigs in one day. The jazz-blues pianist might be teaching in the morning, rehearsing with other players in the afternoon, maybe playing a nightclub gig in the evening or occupying the piano stool at her full-time job at the Gaslight Theatre, where she is the accompanist and musical director. In addition to keeping a schedule that often has her on the go from 9 a.m. to ....