Norah Jones

Norah Jones

Singer and pianist
Date of Birth: 30.03.1979
Country: USA

Biography of Norah Jones

Norah Jones, a singer and pianist, was born on March 30, 1979, in New York. She spent her childhood with her mother in Texas, listening to records by jazz giants such as Bill Evans and Billie Holiday. It is no wonder that jazz ultimately shaped her destiny. However, Jones added traditional pop harmonies to her jazz style, delivering it with such grace and taste that caught the attention of critics.

In 1996-1997, she was twice recognized as the best young jazz performer by the prestigious magazine "Downbeat." Not long after, she left university and moved to Greenwich Village, where she actively performed in jazz clubs. While standards remained a part of her repertoire, Jones began incorporating her own compositions. She also joined the jazz fusion group Wax Poetic before forming her own band with guitarist Jesse Harris, bassist Lee Alexander (who would become her main co-writer), and drummer Dan Rieser.

The demo recordings made by this lineup caught the attention of Blue Note Records, and a lucrative contract was offered to Norah Jones. Her debut album, "Come Away With Me," was released in early 2002. It featured renowned jazz musicians such as Bill Frisell and Brian Blade. Critics immediately recognized Jones as more than just a pretty face or a protege of her father. They acknowledged her as a full-fledged talent deserving of the utmost attention. Some even referred to her as the "Alicia Keys for adults."

Jones's memorable melodies, light and ethereal arrangements, and her delicate treatment of standards, combined with her ability to experiment, all contribute to her unique style.

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