Amanda Carr: The Voice of Modern American Jazz and Swing
Amanda Carr is an American vocalist and pianist celebrated for her authentic interpretations of the Great American Songbook and vibrant swing music. Hailing from the Boston area, her career is marked by acclaimed albums and a dedicated international following, particularly in the traditional jazz and swing genres.
Early career
Born into a musical family, Carr's professional journey began in the 1980s, initially performing in rock and pop bands around New England. Her pivot to jazz was a natural evolution, influenced by her father, a big band trumpeter, which led to her deep dive into the classic vocal jazz repertoire and the sophisticated piano style of artists like Nat King Cole.
Breakthrough
Carr's national breakthrough arrived with her 2006 album Soon, released on her own label, Candid Art & Music. The album, featuring legendary saxophonist Phil Woods, garnered critical praise and solidified her reputation as a serious steward of classic jazz and swing, earning significant airplay on jazz radio stations across the United States.
Key tracks
Soon — This title track from her 2006 album showcases her elegant phrasing and the intimate collaboration with Phil Woods.
Don't Let Our Love Die — A powerful original composition that demonstrates her skill as a songwriter within the classic jazz idiom.
It's All About You — A later-career track that highlights her dynamic big band collaborations and energetic stage presence.
I Can't Believe You're in Love with Me — A quintessential standard in her live sets, performed with a timeless, swinging feel.
I'm Gonna Lock My Heart — This track exemplifies her ability to blend piano playing and vocals with a playful, rhythmic drive.
Following this success, Carr continued to record prolifically, including the holiday album Christmas Through Your Eyes and the intimate piano-vocal project Common Thread. She has performed at major venues and festivals, from the Kennedy Center to international jazz events, often collaborating with esteemed musicians like the Hot Sardines and the Airmen of Note.
Her music finds a natural home on classic jazz FM stations, vocal jazz specialty shows, and online swing radio streams. Listeners tuning into independent music radio stations focused on timeless American music regularly hear her recordings in rotation.
If you appreciate the sophisticated swing of Michael Bublé, you will enjoy Carr's authentic take on the classics. Fans of the nuanced storytelling in Jane Monheit's work will find a kindred spirit. The piano-and-voice intimacy reminiscent of Diana Krall is also a hallmark of Carr's style. For those who enjoy the big band energy of Stacey Kent, Carr's uptempo arrangements deliver a similar thrill.
Amanda Carr's music is regularly featured on the radio stations available through our website. You can discover her catalog of jazz and swing recordings by tuning into the stations featured on onairium.com.
