David John
31 October, 2024
What's On

The Tabernacle set for Blues, Soul and Gospel concert series for London Jazz Festival

As part of the EFG London Jazz Festival taking place across the city from November 15 to 24, The Tabernacle in Notting Hill will play host to a diverse series of concerts celebrating blues, gospel and soul.

L-R: Michelle David & The True-tones, Ruthie Foster and Errol Linton will all headline shows at The Tabernacle in November as part of The London Jazz Festival

The three Tabernacle Nights concerts will feature gospel/soul star Michelle David & The True Tones (November 15), five-time Grammy Award-nominated U.S. folk/blues/soul star Ruthie Foster (16th November) and London’s very own blues-roots singer-songwriter Errol Linton (November 20).

Raised in New York in a church, Michelle David started singing at the age of four and joined her first group, The Mission of Love, when she was five. During her career, she toured the world with Broadway musical “Mama”, contributed to successful theatre shows such as “The Sound of Motown”, “Glory of Gospel” and “Mahalia” and recorded for artists such as Diana Ross and Michael Bolton. This all happened before releasing six critically acclaimed gospel-infused albums with the True-tones.  

Acclaimed soul-gospel group Michelle David & The True-tones
Acclaimed soul-gospel group Michelle David & The True-tones Credit: Rush Hour Records

Michelle David & The True-tones know how to put on a glowing evening of classic soul. With their upbeat grooves, powerful vocals, and strong melodies, they have already conquered many festivals and numerous clubs. Having played renowned Dutch festivals such as Pinkpop and North Sea Jazz, the band toured from Spain to Scandinavia, leaving memorable impressions wherever they play; delivering an unforgettable live experience. 

 

Multiple-Grammy nominated U.S artist Ruthie Foster
Multiple-Grammy nominated U.S artist Ruthie Foster Credit: Sun Records

In addition, the band's discography has also been praised; receiving an Edison nomination (the Dutch Grammy), while their previous record “Truth & Soul” was named Album of the Month on FIP radio in France and Album of the Year at Craig Charles’ BBC Radio 6 Music show. The group did numerous radio and TV performances and were even invited to play their music on the biggest National TV show during the Winter Olympics 2022.

Michelle David (vocals), Paul Willemsen (guitar, bass guitar), Onno Smit (guitar, bass guitar) and Bas Bouma (drums) form a tight-knit unit that seamlessly blends their individual talents, resulting in the distinctive sound that defines Michelle David & the True-tones. The band's instrumentation, characterized by groovy basslines, and Michelle David's powerhouse vocals, becomes a vibrant tapestry in the studio setting. With their new album "Brothers & Sisters", Michelle David & the True-tones have crafted a sonic journey which resonates with the soulful spirit of their live shows, inviting audiences to groove along with them on a timeless musical voyage.

London blue legend Errol Linton
London blue legend Errol Linton Credit: Neil O'Brien Entertainment

Ruthie Foster's musical journey is as eclectic and vibrant as her soulful voice. Born into a gospel-rich family in Gause, Texas, Ruthie was influenced by her mother, grandmother, and artists like the Gospel Keynotes and the Blind Boys of Alabama. Initially shy, Ruthie embraced her talent, thanks to encouragement from her family and church community.

After studying music and serving in the Navy, where she performed with the Navy band Pride, Ruthie signed a development deal with Atlantic Records and honed her skills in New York City's songwriting community. She eventually returned to Texas, blending blues, folk, and gospel into a unique sound. Ruthie's acclaimed albums include Runaway Soul, The Phenomenal Ruthie Foster, The Truth According to Ruthie Foster, and Healing Time. She has collaborated with artists like Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tedeschi, and Derek Trucks, further highlighting her versatility. With five Grammy nominations and numerous awards, she remains a powerful voice in music.

Her latest album, Mileage, to be released on the legendary Sun Records, reflects on her life and musical journey. Produced and co-written by Tyler Bryant and co-written with Rebecca Lovell (Bryant's wife and one-half of Larkin Poe), the album features powerful tracks like "Rainbow" and "Heartshine." 

Ruthie's rich storytelling and authenticity have captivated and inspired audiences worldwide. With Mileage, she invites listeners on a soul-stirring voyage, echoing her rich heritage and life experiences.

Anyone interested in contemporary British blues / roots music will be aware of Errol Linton. The Brixton born, raised and resident singer, harmonica player and songwriter has earned his spurs as leader of the most dynamic live band in the UK - Linton and band take the stage night after night, making music that gets audiences dancing and cheering. This is the funky stuff, blues with a reggae tinge and jazz flavours. Black British music with roots in Mississippi and New Orleans, Kingston and London. Linton creates a dynamic, original sound like no other artist anywhere.

Connor is one of the brightest talents on the UK blues scene. He has been voted "Young Artist of the Year" at the UK Blues Awards for three consecutive years (2020, 2021, 2022). He has an impressive venue checklist, including Wembley Stadium, where he opened for The Who in July 2019 and has since gone on to play Hyde Park, London, on a bill with Pearl Jam, Stereophonics and Johnny Marr in the summer of 2022.

Tickets for all three concerts are on sale now, available from: 

November 15: Michelle David & The True Tones:    

https://www.seetickets.com/event/michelle-david-the-true-tones/tabernacle/3134084

November 16: Ruthie Foster: 

https://www.seetickets.com/event/ruthie-foster/tabernacle/3131796

November 20 - Errol Linton & Connor Selby: 

https://www.seetickets.com/event/errol-linton-connor-selby/tabernacle/3131800