Gina Breedlove - Open Heart

The creative force of Gina Breedlove is as dangerous and delightful as this earth we share. Folksoul is the signature sound of this versatile vocalist and songwriter, who has graced stages internationally, working with artists who like herself- defy and redefine genre. A coalescence of rhythm & blues with storytelling cadences of folk and gospel, folksoul allows one to find one's own way into the music, and is uniquely empowering in this way. Gina and her folksoul family please and provoke audiences from note one. Balanced between breaths, we are held entranced by the sound of this woman singing. She credits the poignancy of Stevie Wonder's lyrics and the tenderness of Minnie Ripperton's timbre as major influences, and it is apparent to any listener just what honor she does to both these legacies. Gina's folksoul often manages to strike an intellectual nerve even while stroking our emotions. Singing backup for the sumptuous talent of Phylis Hyman at the tender age of 15 prepared gina for subsequent tours with Ronny Jordan, Ani Difranco, Omar, Sekou Sundiata, Craig Harris and Toshi Reagon. An extensive background in theater as well, she originated the role of 'Sarabi' in the Broadway production of 'The Lion King'. Most recently, gina has traveled with her band to perform on the acoustic stage at the Michigan Womyn's Festival, and has traveled across Asia and the U.S. touching souls with her artistry and grace. 'Gina's voice transcends soul reverie, and her beauty captures your heart and mind'~ Jazztimes. With folksoul, Gina Breedlove has invented a delectable melange, a contemporary sound with classic orchestration with an irresistible groove. It is indeed the medicine many of us have been waiting for. It is music that celebrates the love we struggle to build, and represents a courageous kind of beauty... that essential antidote to what ails us. Simply put, we need this.