MOSCOW 1996 Grammy award nominee Dianne Reeves has been added to the Saturday night concert at the 1996 Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, replacing singer Al Jarreau.
Jarreau asked to be released from his appearance at the University of Idaho festival so he could accept the lead male role in the Broadway production of "Grease."
"Appearing in a Broadway musical is a major career opportunity for Al, and it's one of his lifelong dreams," said festival director Lynn Skinner, who was contacted by Jarreau earlier this week.
Jarreau was slated to be the headliner of the GTE Giants of Jazz Concert, performing with Lionel Hampton's New York Big Band. "We've never had to find a headliner replacement before in the 29 years of the festival," said Skinner. Luckily, it turned out to be less difficult than Skinner imagined.
"We got on the phone and put the word out," said Skinner. "A few hours later, Dianne Reeves called to say she could be here and that she'd love to sing with the Big Band."
Skinner said he didn't end up with just any replacement headliner Reeves is a 1996 Grammy award nominee for her release "Quiet After the Storm."
Reeves began her singing career as a member of trumpeter Clark Terry's band. She also performed with Sergio Mendes and Harry Belafonte, before establishing a solo career.
Reeves, who is acclaimed for her exciting and dynamic live performances, offers listeners a blend of jazz, rhythm and blues and the rhythms of West Africa and the West Indies.
Because of the headliner replacement, ticket refunds will be offered through Ticket Express at the University of Idaho, (208) 885-7212 or (800) 345-7402.