By Monet Anais
In an era where musical genres are constantly blending and evolving, Cliff Beach stands out as a beacon of innovation and authenticity. With his latest album, “You Showed Me The Way,” Beach not only pays homage to the legendary Ella Fitzgerald but also carves out a unique space for himself within the jazz community. This collection of jazz tunes is more than just a tribute; it’s a vibrant fusion of the past and present, showcasing Beach’s eclectic influences and imaginative approach to music.
Born into a family deeply rooted in the church, Cliff Beach’s early exposure to vocal harmony and piano set the foundation for his musical journey. His upbringing in Washington, D.C., surrounded by ministers and choirs, instilled in him a profound understanding of musical expression through voice and keys. This early education in music led him to pursue formal training at Berklee College of Music, where he honed his skills in voice and embarked on a career that would see him blend genres effortlessly.
After moving to Los Angeles in 2003, Beach began performing small gigs that gradually evolved into shows with a full seven-piece band, complete with background singers. Recognizing the challenges musicians face in funding their projects, he furthered his education with an MBA from Pepperdine University, specializing in marketing. This blend of artistic talent and business acumen has allowed Beach to navigate the music industry with savvy precision, as detailed in his book “Side Hustle & Flow.”
Throughout his career, Cliff Beach has been adamant about not confining his music to specific genres. His philosophy is that music is a universal language that transcends stylistic boundaries—a belief strongly reflected in “You Showed Me The Way.” This album marks Beach’s first venture into an entire collection of jazz standards while still infusing elements of soul, funk, gospel, and R&B. It’s this innovative approach that has earned him critical acclaim from Alpha Magazine among others.
“You Showed Me The Way” is dedicated to Ella Fitzgerald and features songs spanning her illustrious career. Yet, it’s not just any tribute album; it reimagines these classics through Beach’s contemporary lens without losing the essence that made them timeless. Notably absent from this project is Beach himself on piano—a deliberate choice that allowed him to focus solely on vocal interpretation while leaving arrangements to Munenori “Moon” Kishi.
The album boasts an impressive lineup of musicians adept at navigating between jazz and other genres seamlessly. With Evan Mackey as music director, leading talents like Rubén Salinas and Sam Williams on saxophones among others, each track vibrates with energy and innovation—qualities that have come to define Cliff Beach’s sound.
From swinging renditions like “That Old Black Magic” to heartfelt ballads such as “How Long Has This Been Going On,” every song on “You Showed Me The Way” reflects both reverence for Ella Fitzgerald’s work and Beach’s creative flair. His original composition, “The Gift of the Blues,” serves as the perfect closing statement—a nod to traditional blues infused with contemporary soulfulness.
Cliff Beach’s ability to breathe new life into well-trodden paths while maintaining its integrity is no small feat. It requires not only exceptional vocal talent but also a deep respect for musical heritage paired with an adventurous spirit willing to explore new territories.
With over one million streams on Spotify alone (@cliffbeachmusic), it’s evident that Cliff Beach has struck a chord with listeners around the globe. His awards—including four Global Music Awards—attest to his skillful artistry and innovative vision.
“You Showed Me The Way” isn’t merely an album; it’s an experience—a journey through time propelled by Cliff Beach’s commanding voice and boundless creativity. For aficionados of Ella Fitzgerald’s songbook or those simply seeking quality music imbued with heart and soulfulness, this album promises surprises that delight at every turn.
Looking toward the future of music where lines between genres continue blurring evermore rapidly, artists like Cliff Beach serve as reminders of why these explorations are worth people’s attention—bridging generations through melodies that are timeless yet entirely refreshing.
Published by: Khy Talara
