So many of today's divas are often the product of marketing tycoons, but such is not the case with Abby Burke-she is not just another "manufactured" vocalist. Abby Burke has it all: a sensational voice with a 3.5 octave range, commanding stage presence, statuesque appearance and an infectious joy for what she does. Abby's musical tastes include Cabaret, Jazz, Musical Theater, Pop, Country and Classical. Abby sings with elegance and sensitivity, earning her the support of the Nashville Arts scene, which created the ideal setting for Abby's repertoire.
Abby's journey began at the tender age of 5 years old when Aunt Betty guided her to try out for the Little People's Choir at her home church, St. Paul A.M.E. in Cambridge, Massachusetts. All it took was applause from the congregation for Abby to realize that music is who she was, not simply what she loved. Elementary and High School also were a great proving ground for the music Abby had found. Once in college, Abby joined a band that became one of the hottest 70's disco showbands in Massachusetts- DarkerSide. In the early 80's, Abby went to Nashville, Tennessee to work at Opryland USA. It was here that she first experienced studio work and developed the ability to sing all types of musical challenges put in front of her.
In the 90's she went back to school to obtain a degree in Psychology and a Masters Degree in Education. Her love of music and is affect on people, made her desire to perform become even stronger. In 2001 Abby formed a new band: "Abby Burke featuring The Manly Band". Today they are one of the hottest bands on the Nashville music scene. Her ability to take a tune familiar to many and leave her imprint on it has caused her to become a popular artist with her band and with a variety of other professional performing organizations.
In 2004, Abby broke racial barriers at The Alabama Theater in Myrtle Beach SC by becoming the first African-American performing artist to participate in their "One for Holidays Spectacular."
She has recently received the honor of the "2005 Tennessee Arts Commission Individual Artist Fellowship in Vocal Performance" to continue her performing arts career. She will use those monies to produce a cabaret song album titled along with a series of cabaret shows gleaned from this album.
Abby was cast in the Gaylord/Opryland Production of Scrooge's Holiday Banquet aboard the General Jackson Showboat from Nov. 17 - Dec. 23, 2005. In March this year, The Human Rights Commision has asked Abby, along with her Manly Band, to perform at their annual fundraiser.
So, if you want to be welcomed into the music, loved by the artist and then sent back to the world, Abby Burke is just the artist to get you there and back. From soloist with the Nashville Symphony to shaking down the house with her Manly Band, Abby Burke does it all!
Abby lives her life and her art by this simple phrase: "They may not remember what you said or what you did, but they will always remember how you made them feel."
Anon.
Check out the artist's website:
http://abbyandthemanlyband.comTrack List:
1. Mine Child
2. I Loved You For A Day
3. Built for Luxury
4. Time
5. Summertime
6. I Can't Stand The Rain
7. I Will
8. Nothing Left To Learn
9. When It All Comes Down
10. Ain't No Sunshine
11. Tomorrow Is Coming Later Today
12. Secrets
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