Ray Gelato Performs 'It Don't Mean a Thing' on Strictly Dance Fever. Presented by Graham Norton.
Influences
People always ask for my influences, so here goes a try! I hate doing this, cos someone great always gets left out!
Vocals: Louis Prima, Sinatra, Wynonie Harris, Louis Jordan, Mel Torme, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, Joe Williams, Dean Martin, Della Reese, Sam Butera, Buddy Greco, Louis Armstrong. There are more, but I can't remember now.
Bands: Duke Ellington, Count Basie, The Treniers, Sam Butera and the Witnesses. Benny Goodman, Gene Krupa, Steely Dan, Cab Calloway.
Sax: Illinois Jacquet, Arnett Cobb, Coleman Hawkins, Don Byas, Ike Quebec, Charlie Ventura, Gene Ammons, Lester Young, Zoot Sims, Stan Getz, Charlie Parker, Paul Gonzalves, Ben Webster, Lucky Thompson, Lew Tabackin, Scott Hamilton. I also dig the rockin' guys, I learned to Play by imitating these fellas!- Sam Butera, Red Prysock, Sam 'The man' Taylor, Rudy Pompilli, Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty.
Ray is truly one of the last in the long line of ‘great’ Jazz entertainers with countless albums, releases and world tours under his belt, and 25 years in the business. He’s scooped a number of awards and nominations including Ronnie Scotts Best band, plus a nomination for BBC Radio 2 Jazz Artist Of The Year in 2006 and BBC 'Heart Of Jazz' in 2008.
With performances all over the world, he’s twice been requested to perform by personal invitation of HM the Queen, opened for Robbie Williams at The Royal Albert Hall, not to mention private appearances for the likes of Richard Branson, Elle McPherson and a personal invitation to perform at Paul McCartney’s wedding. Other performances include sets with BBC Symphony Orchestra live in Hyde Park, The Proms, and a superb show backed by a 35 piece orchestra alongside Katie Melua and Will Young at the BBC's VE Day Concert in Trafalgar Square. Further TV appearences include This Morning, Top Of The Pops, BBC News and Stritcly Come Dancing.
Ray has just released a brand new album, 'Salute to the Great Entertainers', in which he pays tribute to his some of his musical heroes. Recently Ray and the Giants enjoyed two sold out weeks at Ronnie Scotts. Gelato being a keen chef has also written a cookbook, entitled 'Cookin' with Ray'. More then 100 copies were sold during Ray's Xmas Ronnies Scott's run.
“Arguably the only British jazz artist with a proper stage show.” -THE LONDON EVENING STANDARD
The Benalmádena Blues Festival - 'Blues at Moonlight':
Now in its third successful year, the festival has been extended to offer Rhythm and Blues, Rock 'n' Roll and Swing fans two nights of non-stop, world-class music and entertainment. Click here for more information on the featured bands, ticket prices and special entrance and accommodation packages: www.benalmadenabluesfestival.com
The Festival dates are Friday 13 and Saturday 14 November - a limited amount of tickets are available so book asap to avoid disappointment!!
On November 1, 2009, Grant Consultants will be celebrating eight years of success! To show our appreciation, all of our preferred clients have received our annual special as our way of saying thank you for their loyalty. In addition, we are offering all new clients a 50% discount the entire month of November on selected services. Please call 614-452-4244 for details. http://www.thegrantconsultants.com
Hi,Promoting an evening of cool blues and hot gypsy jazz at The University of Sheffield on 7 November. Kyla Brox and The Samuel C Lees Quartet. Advance ticket offer : £10 rather than £12 call 0114 222 8968 and quote "Ents24 Code US1" Two Headline Acts : One Show ! 8pm to 11pm. Kyla Brox "The Voice" "Blues Diva" "The Samuel C Lees Quartet does a great job of combining the traditional side of gypsy jazz with a modern feel and groove, which is both unique and and extremely desirable to listen to!" John Jorgenson Quintet.
Ray, dear, how have you been? I came by to jive here a little. :) Wish you and your cute family a beautiful October full of joy and laughter only! :) Don't know if you know Rick Boriga (on my to list), but I think you two could connect quiet well for his movie projects. :)
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