Summary of "Cécile McLorin Salvant Performs Live In-Studio"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The New Yorker Radio Hour
• Host/Author: WNYC Studios and The New Yorker
• Description: Profiles, storytelling, and insightful conversations, hosted by David Remnick.
• Episode: Cécile McLorin Salvant Performs Live In-Studio
• Release Date: May 23, 2025

Introduction

In the May 23, 2025 episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour, host David Remnick welcomes the acclaimed jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant for an intimate in-studio performance. Accompanied by pianist Sullivan Fortner, Salvant delivers a captivating blend of classic jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing her unparalleled vocal prowess and deep musicality.

Live Performance Highlights

The episode opens with Salvant enthralling the audience with her rendition of "Don't Tell Me Not to Live," setting a vibrant and emotive tone for the evening (00:18). Her performance is punctuated by Sullivan Fortner's delicate piano accompaniment, creating a seamless fusion of voice and instrument.

One of the standout moments is Salvant's interpretation of "Can She Excuse My Wrongs," a 16th-century lute composition originally penned by Robert Devereaux with music by John Dowland. She infuses the piece with contemporary jazz sensibilities, highlighting her ability to bridge historical and modern musical landscapes (12:40).

Another notable performance is "Moon Song," a track from her album Ghost Song, where Salvant delves into themes of desire and longing. Her nuanced delivery captures the song's introspective nature, engaging listeners with both lyrical depth and melodic elegance (24:02).

Behind the Music: Conversations with David Remnick

Musical Choices and Repertoire David Remnick commends Salvant for her eclectic song choices, noting her ability to surprise audiences with unexpected selections. He remarks, “Every time I go, I leave so happy and so surprised by what you've decided to sing on a given night” (03:03). Salvant explains that her primary goal is to keep both herself and her audience surprised, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity and discovery in her performances (03:25).

Influences and Early Life Salvant shares insights into her diverse musical background, influenced heavily by her mother's eclectic taste in music. Growing up in Miami, Florida, Salvant was exposed to a myriad of genres, including Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Cesária Évora, and Los Tres Paraguayos. Her mother's travels across Africa and Latin America instilled in her a deep appreciation for global music traditions (05:09).

Educational Journey Originally contemplating a career in law, Salvant's path shifted during her time at a political science prep school in Aix-en-Provence, France. Her music teacher, Jean Francois Bonnell, recognized her talent and encouraged her to join the jazz class, leading to her first live performance—a daunting experience in a small jazz club with limited audience size (07:17).

Developing Her Unique Voice Salvant discusses her early attempts to emulate jazz greats like Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald, ultimately finding her unique voice through experimentation and embracing her failures. “The failing is becoming yourself,” she reflects, underscoring the importance of authenticity in her artistry (10:35).

Songwriting and Musical Philosophy

Creative Process Salvant delineates her songwriting process, which involves extensive introspection and a strong connection to her piano. She describes her music as “very introspective” and “about solitude,” influenced by her solitary activities like embroidery and long walks (23:34). This solitude allows her to explore themes of yearning and desire deeply.

Influences and Inspirations Highlighting the impact of artists like Rhiannon Giddens, Salvant acknowledges the importance of cultural heritage and the African diaspora in shaping her musical identity. She pays homage to Giddens by performing "Build a House," a song from her repertoire, illustrating the interconnectedness of their musical journeys (18:47).

Curatorial Approach Salvant likens her role to that of a radio DJ or curator, aiming to create a "mixtape" of deep cuts and lesser-known gems rather than mainstream hits. This approach reflects her dedication to uncovering and presenting underappreciated music, enriching her performances with layers of discovery (20:20).

Notable Quotes

• David Remnick on Salvant's Talent:
  “Cécile McLauren Salvante is a jazz singer and she's one of the top singers around today. Someone on the level of Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald.” (00:24)

• Salvant on Being Surprising:
  “It's very nice to hear you say that you're surprised because that's my first priority.” (03:25)

• Salvant on Authenticity:
  “The failing is becoming yourself.” (10:35)

• Salvant on Songwriting:
  “It is very introspective music. And it is music about solitude, a lot of it about solitude, about yearning, about desire.” (23:36)

Conclusion and Upcoming Performances

As the episode draws to a close, Remnick expresses his admiration for Salvant’s multifaceted talent, likening her scholarly and performative aspects to those of Rhiannon Giddens. He commends her for introducing diverse musical elements to the stage, transcending traditional jazz boundaries (18:47).

Salvant shares her excitement for upcoming performances at prestigious venues such as the Spoleto Festival in South Carolina, the Newport Jazz Festival, the D.C. Jazz Festival, and Springfield Jazz and Blues Festival, promising audiences more of her innovative and heartfelt performances (26:37).

David Remnick wraps up the episode by reiterating Salvant's status as one of the great jazz artists of her generation and highlights her ongoing contributions to the music world, ensuring listeners are eagerly anticipating her future endeavors.

Timestamp Reference:

• 00:18 - Introduction of Salvant’s performance.
• 03:03 - Remnick praises Salvant's ability to surprise the audience.
• 05:09 - Discussion of Salvant's early life and musical influences.
• 07:17 - Salvant talks about her first live performance.
• 10:35 - The concept of "failing to become yourself."
• 12:40 - Introduction of "Can She Excuse My Wrongs."
• 18:47 - Conversation about Rhiannon Giddens.
• 20:20 - Salvant describes her curatorial approach to music.
• 23:34 - Salvant discusses her songwriting process.
• 26:37 - Upcoming performances and episode conclusion.

Note: Timestamps are indicative and correspond to the transcript provided.

This episode offers a profound glimpse into Cécile McLorin Salvant's artistic journey, her dedication to musical excellence, and her unwavering commitment to authenticity and innovation in jazz. Whether through her mesmerizing performances or insightful conversations, Salvant embodies the spirit of a true musical pioneer.