Al Jarreau’s Diary from Singapore October 2009

Singapore

In 1918, Sir Stamford Riles and the British East India Company established a trading post on this Malaysian Island. These days, an explosion of modern and ultra-modern construction mixes well with the traditional. They drive on the wrong (left) side of the road like the Brits and speak English better than you and me. And are the gentlest, sweetest polite and kind people of any on the planet.

Even standing room only was sold out at The Esplanade, a venue of ultra modern design, but a cozy inside with the first row touchable from the stage—Wonderful! Wonderful response without hesitation. Audiences in Asia can be shy and reserved. Wow, what a fantastic surprise. Don’t lose that, Singapore! It makes the performers find more to give. We even deviated from the planned program, throwing in Autumn Leaves (I got lost, but it was OK for the moment’s sake.) The audience sang with strong enthusiasm on choruses but really killed me with one single word and note that they sang… “I,” the final word in “Waltz for Debbie.” Classic Jazz! Composer Bill Evans rejoiced in heaven.

Liza, the promoter IMG Artists, and I vowed to do it again next year.

THANK YOU SINGAPORE! Love, Al

Singapore Sun Festival