For more than three decades, Diana Krall has been one of the leading ladies of jazz music - captivating audiences with her sultry voice, piano skills, and signature style. Born in British Columbia, Canada, in 1964, Krall's passion for music started at a young age, learning to play the piano at 4 years old and later discovering jazz while attending the Berklee College of Music in Boston.
Her natural talent and dedication to music quickly led her to become a respected performer, known for her intimate vocal style and stunning piano performances. Diana's unique approach to jazz has often been compared to the greats - Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, and Billie Holiday. Her music continues to inspire audiences around the world, leading her to become one of the few jazz musicians to cross over into mainstream music.
But Diana's journey to success wasn't an easy one. She faced a number of challenges, including the loss of her mother, who died of cancer when Krall was only 15 years old. Despite these obstacles, she persevered, honing her skills and eventually becoming one of the most acclaimed jazz musicians in the world. This biography will take a closer look at her life, her music, and the legacy she has created as the Queen of Jazz.
Early Life and Music Education
Diana Krall, born on November 16, 1964, in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, grew up in a musical family. Her father played piano and her mother sang in a community choir. Her love of music began at a young age, and by the time she was four years old, she had started playing piano herself.
Krall attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she learned to refine her skills in jazz piano. It was during this time that she was exposed to the music of jazz greats such as Oscar Peterson and Bill Evans, who would later become major influences on her own musical style.
After graduating from Berklee, Krall moved to Los Angeles, where she began performing in jazz clubs and working as a sideman for various artists. It wasn't long before she attracted the attention of major record labels and began recording her own albums, which would soon take the jazz world by storm.
- Key points:
- Music was a part of Krall's life from a young age
- Attended Berklee College of Music to refine her jazz piano skills
- Influenced by jazz greats such as Oscar Peterson and Bill Evans
- Started her career as a sideman in Los Angeles
- Recorded her own successful albums and became a major player in the jazz scene
Diana Krall: A Biography of Jazz's Leading Lady
Rise to Fame
Diana Krall's rise to fame in the jazz world is a story of talent, hard work and persistence. Born in British Columbia in 1964, she started playing the piano at a young age and quickly showed a natural gift for music.
In her early career, Krall played in local bars and clubs, honing her skills and developing her own style. She was discovered by a producer who saw her perform at a jazz festival in Vancouver, and soon signed a deal with the record label GRP.
Her debut album, "Stepping Out," was released in 1993 and was a critical success. Krall's unique blend of jazz, pop and blues, combined with her sultry voice and virtuoso piano skills, quickly won her a loyal following.
Over the years, Krall has continued to release hit albums and collaborate with other jazz greats. Her 2001 album, "The Look of Love," sold over two million copies and earned her a Grammy nomination.
Today, Krall is recognized as one of the leading performers in the world of jazz. Her talent, dedication and passion for music continue to inspire audiences everywhere.
Collaborations and Awards
Diana Krall has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, and Paul McCartney. Her collaborations have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including eight Grammy Awards.
Her 2001 album, "The Look of Love," which was produced by Tommy LiPuma and featured a mix of jazz and pop standards, received critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album earned Krall a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Performance and a Juno Award for Album of the Year.
In 2003, Krall released "Live in Paris," which was recorded during her sold-out concerts at the Olympia Theatre in Paris. The album was a commercial success, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard 200 chart, and earned Krall a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album.
Krall's collaborations with other artists have also been successful. Her album, "Love Scenes," which was produced by LiPuma and featured collaborations with Russell Malone and Christian McBride, received critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning Krall a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Performance.
Overall, Diana Krall's collaborations and awards are a testament to her talent as a jazz vocalist and her ability to work with some of the best musicians in the industry.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Diana Krall's personal life has been well-publicized throughout her career. She was married to fellow jazz musician Elvis Costello in 2003 and they have two children together. The couple has collaborated on several music projects over the years, including their album "The River in Reverse".
Beyond her successful career in music, Krall has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts. She supports the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation and has been a longtime ambassador for the World Wildlife Fund. In 2005, she performed at a benefit concert for victims of Hurricane Katrina and has also been involved in fundraising efforts for breast cancer research.
In 2004, Krall was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada for her contributions to the arts and for her philanthropic work. She has also received other prestigious awards, such as the Order of British Columbia and the Governor General's Performing Arts Award.
- Krall supports the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation and the World Wildlife Fund
- In 2005, she performed at a benefit concert for Hurricane Katrina victims
- She has been recognized for her philanthropic work with awards such as Officer of the Order of Canada and the Governor General's Performing Arts Award.
Through her personal life and philanthropy, Diana Krall has shown her dedication to making a positive impact on the world beyond her music.
Legacy and Influence in Jazz Music
Diana Krall has not only made a name for herself as a successful jazz musician, but has also left a lasting legacy on the genre. Her music has influenced countless musicians and her style has become a standard to which many aspire.
One of the most notable aspects of Krall's legacy is her dedication to the traditional jazz sound. She has always been committed to preserving the classic jazz sound while also incorporating modern elements. Her approach has inspired numerous musicians to follow in her footsteps and continue the tradition of jazz music.
Krall's influence can also be seen in the growing popularity of jazz music. Her success as a musician has helped to broaden the audience for jazz, making it more accessible to a wider range of listeners. This has led to a renewed interest in the genre and a resurgence in the popularity of classic jazz artists.
In addition, Krall has been a trailblazer for women in jazz. She has proven that women can succeed in a male-dominated industry and has paved the way for other female musicians to follow in her footsteps. Her influence has been felt across the industry and has inspired a new generation of women to pursue careers in jazz music.
Overall, Diana Krall's legacy and influence in jazz music cannot be overstated. She has left a lasting mark on the genre and has helped to shape it into what it is today. Her dedication to traditional jazz and her commitment to excellence have inspired countless musicians and will continue to inspire future generations.
FAQ
Who is Diana Krall?
Diana Krall is a Canadian jazz pianist and singer who has sold over 15 million albums worldwide and has won multiple Grammy awards. She is regarded as one of the best jazz musicians of our time and continues to perform and record new music today.
What genre of music does Diana Krall play?
Diana Krall is primarily a jazz musician who also incorporates elements of pop, bossa nova, and traditional pop into her music.
What is Diana Krall's most popular album?
Diana Krall's most popular album to date is "When I Look In Your Eyes", which was released in 1999 and sold over 3 million copies worldwide.
Did Diana Krall have any famous collaborations?
Yes, Diana Krall has collaborated with many famous musicians throughout her career, including Tony Bennett, Elvis Costello, and Paul McCartney.
When did Diana Krall start her career?
Diana Krall started her music career in the early 1990s, but gained mainstream success with her album "When I Look In Your Eyes" in 1999.
