Oklahoma's own jazz prodigy, Champian Fulton, is returning to her home state for a special performance at the UCO Jazz Lab on September 29th. This enchanting evening of jazz will be a celebration of Fulton's artistry and her unwavering dedication to the jazz craft.
Fulton's musical journey began at a young age, cradled by the rhythm of jazz in her very home. Her father, jazz trumpeter and educator Stephen Fulton, cultivated her profound love and understanding of jazz. At the tender age of 10, Fulton made her musical debut at Clark Terry's 75th Birthday Party, showcasing a talent well beyond her years.
Fulton's precocious start was merely the first note in a melodic journey that has captivated audiences in New York's elite jazz venues and across the globe. Now a staple in the bustling New York Jazz scene, Fulton has shared stages with jazz royalty such as Lou Donaldson, Frank Wess, Scott Hamilton, Buster Williams, and Louis Hayes, breathing a modern charisma into the classic jazz tradition. Her international stage presence includes soulful performances from New York to Barcelona, reverberating through the hearts of jazz fans around the world.
Fulton's artistry is not only limited to her performances. She is also an accomplished recording artist with sixteen albums to her credit. Her latest album, "Meet Me at Birdland," is a live recording from the iconic New York jazz club. The album captures the energy and excitement of Fulton's live performances and features a mix of jazz standards and her own original compositions.
Fulton is a versatile artist who is equally at home performing solo, with a trio, or with a big band. Her music is characterized by her warm vocals, elegant piano playing, and infectious swing. She is a consummate performer who knows how to connect with her audience on a deep emotional level.
Fulton's performance at the UCO Jazz Lab is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of her artistry firsthand. If you are a fan of jazz music, or simply appreciate beautiful music, be sure to mark your calendars for this special evening.
Resilience and Elegance: A Conversation with Champian Fulton
In an interview with the Norman Transcript, Fulton spoke about her upcoming performance in Oklahoma and her thoughts on the "Meet Me at Birdland" album.
"I'm so excited to be coming back to Oklahoma to perform," she said. “I have so many fond memories of growing up there and playing music with the local musicians. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone again and sharing my music with them.”
Fulton also spoke about the inspiration behind the "Meet Me at Birdland" album.
"I've always loved playing at Birdland," she said. “It's such a historic and iconic club. I wanted to capture the energy and excitement of a live performance at Birdland on this album. I'm really pleased with the results.”
This forthcoming Oklahoma show is tinged with a sense of homecoming. Accompanied by a new trio with Steve Pruitt on drums and Tyler Jackson on bass, Fulton is poised to deliver a night laden with rhythmic dialogues and melodic narratives. With a mixed bag of tunes from her new album, her originals, and jazz standards, the evening promises a sonic journey that will resonate with the undulating cadences of authentic jazz.
Fulton's performance at the UCO Jazz Lab is a must-see for any fan of jazz music. She is a truly gifted artist who is sure to leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.
Get your tickets here while you can!!!
Read some of these reviews of her sensational new album “Meet Me At Birdland!”
“Meet Me at Birdland will be a wonderful addition to any jazz vocalist collection. The live energy is captured on the recording, and Fulton’s phrasing is something special.” - Jazz Sensibilities
“The album captures the energy of a live recording, especially the depth of Fulton’s sensual vocal style and elegant piano playing.” - NiteLife Exchange
“A sensational set from a consummate professional.” - Pierre Giroux, The NYC Jazz Record
