About Vaneese
Born in Memphis Tennessee, Vaneese is the daughter of Rufus Thomas, whose legendary career as a musician and entertainer began in Vaudeville and spanned more than half a century in R&B recording and radio. Her older siblings are the hit recording artist “Memphis Queen” Carla Thomas and the highly respected keyboardist Marvell Thomas (R.I.P.). Embracing this remarkable musical legacy, Vaneese carries forward the rich heritage of Memphis soul and R&B; music that has touched generations and crossed many divides. At the same time, she has combined all the influences of her background and experience – R&B, gospel, blues, and jazz – to cultivate a soul-stirring style that’s all her own.
Highly regarded within the music industry, Vaneese’s talents as a singer, songwriter, producer, and actor have made her a sought-after solo performer as well as a first-call vocalist for projects by other top-name artists. She has worked with the renowned recording producer Phil Ramone and has sung with an astonishing array of internationally known performers including Luciano Pavarotti, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen to name a few. Vaneese has sung with the Baltimore and Colorado Symphonies in “Too Hot to Handel” under the baton of Marin Alsop and at Several Pavarotti & Friends concerts in Modena, Italy; The Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland; The Michael Jackson & Friends concerts with Luther Vandross in Seoul, Korea, and Munich, Germany, and soul music festivals in Porretta, Narni, and Perugia, Italy.
“This is pure unadulterated Memphis in the grand style and manner of the heydays of Hi Studios, Willie Mitchell, Al Green, Ann Peebles et al, with Vaneese sounding better than ever on these new cuts. She seems to have brought the spirit of a young Mavis Staples, crossed with early Etta James but then let loose within herself on a gospel-tinged blues and traditional R&B rendering that is pure joy to listen to. For anyone wise to that tradition, this is a must – have, and if you’re new to the genre you couldn’t find a more exciting record nowadays to steep yourself in. They just don’t make ’em like this anymore – Hallelujah, Vaneese.”
“It’s not often that you hear the genuine article, but Vaneese Thomas delivers the blues in her own unique way with soulful, passionate vocals that bring you into the lyric and keep you there. I really enjoyed listening to this album as I am sure music lovers will as well. I highly recommend it.”
“Vaneese Thomas takes the listener on a beautiful soulful musical journey!”
“Vaneese Thomas is a powerhouse vocal of positivity and hope on this record. Her lyrics observe the issues and challenges we face in these modern times and uplift us as we navigate toward harmonizing with each other as she does from song to song. Personally, I will never forget the moment I first heard Vaneese sing live. It was on stage at the Ryman for the Americana Awards Show. She joined me in singing my song, “Call Me A Fool” with the McCrary Sisters and Carla Thomas. Believe me when I say, her vocals radiated in a crowd of already amazing voices. Her voice is the true and seamless bridge of musical roots from soul to country and missing no highways in between. From harmonica to fiddle and raging electric guitars, this record lives in a completely timeless realm of beauty.”
“Vaneese Thomas has one of the greatest voices in music today. This collection of fantastic songs showcases her range and soulful heart. Plus, we get to hear the best of the best NY based studio cats out there. Enjoy!”