Jully Black is on her way to Alberta. Her “Songs & Stories” tour has fourteen Canadian dates in February and March. The Toronto musician has a powerful voice and a joyful personality that have earned her fans across Canada and around the world.
Jully Black will be in conversation with CKUA’s Kate Stevens during The Upload on Thursday, February 20. We are thrilled to welcome her to the CKUA airwaves.
Stevens remembers hearing Black’s big hit, “Seven Day Fool” for the first time, and being blown away. She says, “To hear someone do R&B on that scale was so fun. She’s not defined by that song, but it did break things open for her in a lot of ways. She’s Canada’s queen of R&B.”
Black is a singer, songwriter, producer, and storyteller with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame. Her latest album, Three Rocks and a Slingshot (2022) includes tracks with a vintage feel. “It’s a retro soul revival,” says Stevens, noting that Black incorporated traditional instruments to create a traditional R&B sound. “She’s so versatile. Going back to classic instrumentation with organ and bass and drums can be so impactful,” she says.
Stevens also thinks it’s wonderful that Black’s opening act on the tour is Melafrique, an Afro-fusion band formed in Edmonton in 2016. Lead vocalist Riwo Egor and her bandmates are CKUA favourites and have been interviewed on the air by Alberta Morning host Grant Stovel, among others. “It’s so cool that she has an Edmonton band opening for her!” exclaims Stevens.
Stevens refers to Black as an inspiration. “She has such vocal clarity. In a world where a lot of singers put a lot of ornamentation in their delivery, her voice is so clear and so incredible. She’s also outspoken, and it’s wonderful to see her stand up for what she believes in.”
Tune in to The Upload on Thursday, February 20 to hear Kate Stevens in conversation with Jully Black. The Upload airs from 11am to 1pm MT.
Jully Black, with opening act Melafrique, will play Calgary on March 1, Sherwood Park on March 2, and Camrose on March 11. Find details and tickets at jullyblack.ca
