ST Special: Gregory Porter gives a musical Valentine's Day gift

(February 14, 2018) Gregory Porter gives his fans a special Valentine’s Day gift today with the release of a sublime Spotify Singles (listen below) featuring the 2-time GRAMMY-winning vocalist’s soulful and uplifting version of The Beatles classic “Blackbird,” as well as a spirited take on the Nat King Cole favorite “L-O-V-E,” which was featured on Gregory’s latest album Nat King Cole & Me. The session was recorded at Spotify Studios in New York City with Porter and his longtime bandmates pianist Chip Crawford, bassist Jahmal Nichols, drummer Emanuel Harrold, and tenor saxophonist Tivon Pennicott.

Porter recently released his third Blue Note album, Nat King Cole & Me—a heartfelt dedication to the legendary singer and pianist—and made appearances on CBS’s Late Show with Stephen Colbert and NBC’s The Today Show. The New York Times wrote that “the jazz singer to beat these days in a man with a vast, noble voice and a way of winning your trust in a matter of seconds.” NPR Music described the album as “a loving tribute recorded with the London Studio Orchestra, in splendiferous arrangements by Vince Mendoza,” adding that “Porter exudes charm and encouragement.”

Porter’s amiable charm will be on full display tonight for his sold-out Carnegie Hall debut, as he graces the venerable New York City venue’s legendary Stern Auditorium Perelman Stage for his beloved annual Valentine’s Day concert. Porter will also present Nat King Cole & Me throughout 2018 with orchestral performances across Europe and in U.S. cities including Atlanta, Chicago, Washington DC, and more to be announced soon. Visit gregoryporter.com/live for more tour info.