Episode #68

This was a very special episode for me, for a couple of reasons. First, it was the first episode where we featured a female vocalist for the entire session. Second, I was thrilled because that vocalist was one of my personal favorites in the industry. That vocalist was the great Janis Siegel, a member and co-founder of the 9-time Grammy Award-winning jazz vocal group The Manhattan Transfer. I have been a big fan of Janis and the Transfer for many, many, many years.

We also had a very special guest join us in the control room that day…legendary producer and songwriter Bobby Eli. Bobby was a major contributor to the great “Sound of Philadelphia,” made famous by the Hall of Fame songwriting team of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. Joining Janis in the studio that day were John di Martino, saxophonist Andrew Neu, bassist Chico Huff and drummer Vic Stevens. John is a brilliant NYC-based pianist and composer. This session was the first appearance for both Janis and John. Andrew, Chico and Vic have all appeared on this program in the past.

Once everyone made themselves comfortable in the studio, we were ready to begin. Janis, realizing Bobby Eli was with us in the control room, immediately suggested we start things off with a take on one of his biggest hits, the beautiful “Love Won’t Let Me Wait.” Everyone thought that was a terrific idea. So after talking through a quick arrangement, we recorded two separate takes of the song. Janis’ interpretation was outstanding. (Bobby loved it as well.)

Next, pointing out that we were in John Coltrane’s hometown of Philadelphia, that it might be nice to record one of his tunes. She suggested “Equinox.” This too was such a wonderful suggestion, as it provided a nice opportunity for her to scat through a couple of verses…something she still does incredibly well. The third tune they worked out was special. It was a song called “Geste Humain,” written by a French woman named Alice Soyer. Years ago, Janis reached out to Soyer and worked with her to write an English version to her French lyric, to be sung to her beautiful melody. We recorded a single take of this song which featured a beautiful soprano saxophone solo from Andrew. And what a beautiful take that was.

The final two songs we recorded that day were “You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To,” written by the great Cole Porter, followed by a totally unrehearsed take an old blues song that Janis used to sing called “Next Time You See Me.” Both came together quite quickly and featured some nice solo work from all the musicians.

All said and done…I absolutely loved this session. Working with Janis Siegel was a total joy. After all these years, she is still at the top of her game and is a total pro. I hope to have her here on another episode of Studio Jams soon!

– Tom Emmi / Producer