To celebrate Tony Bennett’s 100th birthday, Atlanta's Joe Gransden has produced a musical tribute that will open at Lincoln Center in August. Lucky for us, the show comes to The Strand Theatre on Marietta Square on August 14. Joe and his band will swing through the life and career of Tony Bennett, one of the greatest performers of the American Songbook, Tony Bennett’s tone, phrasing and feel were second to none, says Joe. "He can really sell a song and tells the story so well. It's such a pleasure to be influenced by his music."
Songs like "The Boulevard of Broken Dreams," "Because of You," "Fly Me to the Moon," and "When Joanna Loved Me" are just a few favorites on the program.
Joe has performed worldwide and released 19 CDs under his own name. Renowned first for the hard bop approach of his trumpet, Joe's voice is silky smooth.
“Music has been a part of my life as far back as I can remember,” reflects Joe. “I can remember practicing with my father, and eventually he took me along to sit in at jam sessions. Early on I developed a respect for individuals like my father whose lives revolved around music. While still in high school, I knew that music was the life I would choose.”
Now, he celebrates his musical hero, Tony Bennett. Lead trombone player Wes Funderburk wrote the arrangements for this show, fresh takes on classic songs. "Wes took into account all the nuances of my band and came up with a great show."
The Joe Gransden 16 Piece Big Band is one of the busiest groups on the jazz scene. Originally formed in 2009, Joe and the guys have continued to build momentum and perform numerous shows around the country. “The Big Band truly has its own sound and really swings,” says Joe. It’s such a pleasure to front a band of top musicians that can interpret Wes’s arrangements perfectly!”