Spiritual singing session
A triple treat. That is what Tecora Rogers` fans call her. A singer, a songwriter, and a TV host, Ms. Rogers has her own gospel band, the Chicago Spirituals.
ґThe jazz diva has returned to Moscow for a couple of live gigs on July 21 and 22 at the Union of Composers Club.
Chicago-born Rogers has performed at jazz clubs around the world. She says jazz is her complete lifestyle and religion, her spiritual home.
"The one thing about jazz is that you can do anything you want with it!"
Although among her lifetime role models have once been Armstrong and Nat King Cole, Tecora says he music origins are from the church.
"My roots are in gospel and I`m such a strong believer. What influenced her most were musicians at my church."
RT went along to her gigs back in 2008 when she performed in Moscow.
Tecora described her trips to Moscow in summer and winter as phenomenal. She taught gospel music at the Moscow School of Improvised Music and gave several jazz performances.
The passionate musician says that every time she performs she gets so deeply under the skin of a song, she feels like she is becoming someone else. Who exactly? Maybe a teacher. Tecora likes to share information with those around her, and often gives master classes on African-American history at home.
However, jazz is not the only thing she does. She loves the spotlight and has her own TV show in Chicago, on which she interviews local politicians. There are no cop-outs from Tecora`s questions.
A kilowatt smile and a sharp voice, Rogers has been recognized for her versatility and exuberant energy.
Her repertoire is constantly growing, but she says it is important to understand what people are looking for when you are already on stage. She can change her program at the last minute, depending on people`s reactions.
Over the years, she has learnt to read people`s minds and intentions.
ґValeria Paikova, RT
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