Event

Suzanna Smith: Peggy Lee Project

There are relatively few contemporary female vocalists who evoke Peggy Lee, at least not genuinely. Suzanna Smith, a seasoned pro who has been honing her artistry in and around the Bay Area for over a decade, numbers among that rare ilk. That Smith sounds like Lee -slightly breathy and warmly sensual with a hint of huskiness - is undeniable, but the parallels extend much further. Lee's ability to not just caress a ballad but smother it in mink has seldom been matched. She was also a sage swinger- never too much, never too little- as well as a first-rate songwriter. Smith checks all those boxes.
Christopher Louden, Jazz Times

SUZANNA SMITH is one of the brightest voices on the Bay Area jazz scene. Known for her golden tone, innate sense of swing, and irresistible charm, she brings classic jazz standards to life. She has been featured three times on In The Moment on KCSM, the Bay Area's main jazz radio station, and she released her first major recording in August 2013. Her album is an eclectic but deeply informed selection of material including five original compositions and original lyrics set to instrumental jazz tunes alongside a few choice jazz standards. In this regard she follows in PEGGY LEE's footsteps, as Peggy is considered one of the first female singer-songwriters.

Suzanna lists Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Anita O'Day, Peggy Lee, Blossom Dearie, and Shirley Horn as some of her greatest influences. Inspired by these master vocalists, she has developed a sound and style that is continually evolving and all her own. Suzanna brings warmth and grace to each performance. Catch her and see for yourself how she's illuminating today's vibrant jazz scene.