EP 24: From Birdland to Brilliance with Janis Siegel

Join host Darrell in an enthralling episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast featuring the talented Janis Siegel from the Manhattan Transfer. Janis, known for her captivating lead vocals on hits like “Twilight Zone” and “Birdland,” shares her remarkable journey from her first recording experience at age 12 to becoming a revered figure in the world of music.Explore the creative process behind the Manhattan Transfer's groundbreaking tracks, with Janis diving into the backstory of the futuristic pop hit "Birdland" and its transition into a modern vocalese masterpiece. Hear about the taxi cab meeting that led to the formation of the Manhattan Transfer and how the group's passion for harmony shaped their distinctive sound.Janis reflects on her evolution as a vocalist and arranger, her experiences with the pressures of the music industry, and how the band members maintained harmony and balance, both musically and personally. Additionally, she reveals her recent projects, including collaborations with The Count Basie Orchestra and teaching at NYU, emphasizing the importance of balance and self-care in her busy life. Get behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the Manhattan Transfer's latest album "50," a pandemic project pieced together across continents. Janis also discusses the significance of songs like "Twilight Zone" in the band's repertoire and her personal routine to stay performance-ready. This episode is a treasure trove of musical anecdotes, wisdom, and inspiration, a must-listen for fans of Janis Siegel, The Manhattan Transfer, and jazz enthusiasts everywhere.