Rachelle-Rachelle-Rachelle, how sweet the sound. It's been eight long years since Rachelle Ferrell has released an album and I have to say that it has been well worth the wait. Individuality (Can I Be Me?), just explodes with one breathtaking song after another that speaks to the spirit of women of all ages.
"I've been off the recording scene for several reasons. The truth is, I was fighting for my creative autonomy. It was a battle of epic proportions and I was willing to give up my recording career to stand for what I felt was right and true," she said. Thanks for fighting the good fight girl, we ain't mad at ya.
Leading this 11-song collection is the very impressive title track "Individuality, which reminds the listener of the essentialness of being true to one's self. Ferrell practices what she sings because she had a hand in all aspects of this new project -- writing, arranging, producing. In fact when she was here to perform late last year she told Metro Connection that the collection has some very strong autobiographical overtones. "As you know I never stopped performing but during this time away from recording I learned a lot about the music business and about myself and it was a tremendous experience," she said. "The music you hear on Individuality reveals some of that learning process and my own personal growth."
Individuality is by no means a solo affair, Ferrell shares creative space with such notables as George Duke who co-wrote "Satisfied," a top 10 Adult R&B airplay track, Kenny Lattimore, Jonathan Butler and her brother Russell Barnes.
Rachelle must love DC or DC must love them some Rachelle because after a powerful performance at Constitution Hall in January, alongside Maysa and Kim Waters, she returns for a weeklong engagement. March 26-April 1, Rachelle will be the featured performer in the cozy confines of Blues Alley. Shows are at 8 & 10:30 p.m. For reservations and information call 202-337-4141. Be warned most shows are already SOLD OUT! |