Cecily’ at The Mansion at Strathmore. Photo provided by Culture Spot.
One of this year’s Artists in Residence at Strathmore is Cecily, a bright and vibrant young singer-songwriter who is all soul. She is a truly entrancing artist with incredible vocal power who only unleashes it at the most opportune moments. The rest of the time, she draws her audience in and they stay completely hooked on her voice.
Be on the lookout for her gentle soulful music.
Cecily recently released a new album titled “Songs of Love and Freedom” and most of the music she performed at her final concert as an Artist in Residence came from there. These included “Pisces,” a sweet song about finding strength and peace, “Your Idea of Beautiful,” “Hope,” a very upbeat and powerful song with only the voice and percussion, and Gil Scott-Heron’s “Song for Bobby Smith.”
The concert was the premiere of a Strathmore commissioned piece titled “No Room for Fear.” The piece was inspired by Imani Uzuri’s music. Cecily wrote the piece about her husband with the help of Drew Kid and Malik Hunter. She also opened the evening with an Uzuri piece titled “Sun Moon Child,” a smooth jazzy number.
The band featured John Daise on bass, Tyler Leak on percussion, fellow Artist in Residence Drew Kid on keyboard and vocals, and Gina Sobel on flute and vocals. All of these musicians were extraordinary and looked like they were enjoying their time together.
Cecily’s residency has come to an end but she is going to continue to do great things. Be on the lookout for her gentle soulful music.
More Strathmore Artist in Residence concerts run through June 27. For tickets and more information click here.
