Diana Krall

Biography

Diana Krall, born November 16, 1964, in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, grew up in a musically rich environment, with both parents and her grandmother nurturing her early interest in music. She began classical piano lessons at age four and was soon captivated by her father's extensive collection of Fats Waller and jazz records, which deeply influenced her musical direction. By age 15, Krall was performing jazz piano professionally in local restaurants and was an active member of her high school jazz band.

Krall earned a scholarship to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she studied for over a year before returning to Canada. Her talent caught the attention of legendary bassist Ray Brown, who encouraged her to move to Los Angeles and study with renowned pianist Jimmy Rowles. Rowles was instrumental in persuading Krall to develop her vocal abilities alongside her piano skills. Krall's debut album, 'Stepping Out,' was released in 1993, followed by a series of acclaimed recordings that showcased her sophisticated jazz interpretations and elegant piano technique. Her 1999 album 'When I Look in Your Eyes' marked a major breakthrough, earning her a Grammy Award and establishing her as a leading figure in contemporary jazz.

Krall's musical style is characterized by her smooth contralto vocals, refined piano accompaniment, and a repertoire that blends jazz standards with contemporary influences. She is celebrated for her ability to reinterpret classics with subtlety and emotional depth, often accompanied by understated rhythm sections or lush string arrangements. Over her career, Krall has sold over 15 million albums worldwide and has become one of the most influential jazz artists of her generation, earning multiple Grammy and Juno Awards and recognition as an Officer of the Order of Canada.

Fun Facts

• Diana Krall is married to British singer-songwriter Elvis Costello; they wed in 2003.
• Her 1996 album 'All for You' is a tribute to the Nat King Cole Trio and spent over a year on the jazz charts.
• Krall was awarded the Order of British Columbia in 2000 and is an Officer of the Order of Canada.
• She often cites her father's Fats Waller record collection as a major influence on her jazz piano style.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Ray Brown - Legendary jazz bassist who discovered Krall, mentored her, and played on her early recordings. (Only Trust Your Heart (1995)) [Early 1990s]
• Jimmy Rowles - Renowned jazz pianist and teacher who encouraged Krall to develop her singing. (Private studies, early career guidance) [Early 1990s]

Key Collaborators

• Tommy LiPuma - Producer of several of Krall's most successful albums. (Only Trust Your Heart (1995), When I Look in Your Eyes (1999), The Look of Love (2001)) [1995–2017]
• Elvis Costello - Husband and songwriting collaborator; co-wrote songs and appeared on her albums. (The Girl in the Other Room (2004)) [2003–present]
• John Clayton - Bassist and arranger; early collaborator in Los Angeles jazz scene. (Live performances, various recordings) [Early 1990s]
• Jeff Hamilton - Drummer who played with Krall and introduced her to Ray Brown. (Live performances, early recordings) [Early 1990s]

Artists Influenced

• Norah Jones - Krall's crossover jazz-pop success paved the way for artists like Jones. (Come Away With Me (2002)) [2000s]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. The Look Of Love (The Look Of Love)
2. Let's Fall In Love (When I Look In Your Eyes)
3. You Don't Know Me (Genius Loves Company)
4. Alone Again (Naturally) (Wallflower)
5. Just The Way You Are (Live In Paris)
6. 'S Wonderful (The Look Of Love)
7. Night And Day (Turn Up The Quiet)
8. Cry Me A River (The Look Of Love)
9. Temptation (The Girl In The Other Room)
10. California Dreamin' (Wallflower)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #british, #canadian, #contemporary-jazz