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Favorite website: http://jesstry@hotmail.com

Pittsburgh Connection: Born and raised.

About Me:: Jessie Wills' singing career had its beginning in Pittsburgh, PA, the geographic cradle to many jazz greats. While in high school, Wills hooked up with Johnny Costa, best-known for his work on the popular children's TV show Mr. Rogers Neighborhood. Following a stint with Frank Cunimondo, she stepped back from her career to raise a family. Returning to jazz in 1993, she appeared at jazz venues in and around Pittsburgh, performing with such local jazz musicians as keyboardist Jeff Lashway and organist Gene Ludwig. Wills has also been part of the big band scene, working with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra and the Tim Bassett Big Band. In 1998, she began commuting between Pittsburgh and the West Coast, where she appeared at such jazz venues as the Café de Sole with pianist Marty Harris and other jazz spots. Her maiden album, What's in Store, released in October of 1999, presents a playlist of popular and jazz standards. Wills also contributes some compositions to the effort. One of the main features of this album is the presence of tuba player Jim Self, whose big instrument works melodic magic as he joins Wills on several of the cuts. Still moving back and forth between the Steel City and the West Coast, Wills worked with Bobby Cardillo in the Pittsburgh area. Although having a voice limited in range, she uses it to great advantage with an exceptional ability to give meaning to the lyrics of each song she presents. Perhaps this is a result of her own songwriting activities. Whatever the case, based on her initial album, Jessie Wills should continue to excel as a jazz vocalist. ~ Dave Nathan, All Music Guide

Website:: http://jazzburgher.ning.com/profile/jessiewills

Artist or Fan: artist

Comment Wall (18 comments)

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At 6:33pm on September 20, 2008, Luiz Santos said…: Hello Jessie
I wish you an awesome weekend!
Peace, Luiz

At 10:41pm on September 6, 2008, Grant said…: Hi, Jessie ... you sound GREAT, as always .... however one suggestion to improve your music ................. Come on down here to California and Sing for Grant and Bo, we miss you, hon! Ciao

At 2:36pm on August 17, 2008, Don Cerminara said…: Your choice of material is impeccable. The guys around you (that guitar...and the "changes") I dig. Blue Daniel, Caravan, Soul Eyes,,,,just hip. Let me know if you live elsewhere, or work around town some. I'll fall in...nobody does these tunes! I'm the "be-bop fanatic"....Donny C

At 5:50pm on August 14, 2008, Donna Bailey said…: Jessie,
You sound amazing! I hope to meet you and hear you live soon!
Donna

At 2:01am on August 13, 2008, Elizabeth "Betty" Asche Douglas said…: Hey Jessie, it's been a while since we ran into one another, but I'm glad this network allows for connections and reconnections. Best.

At 9:18pm on July 2, 2008, Andy Yalch said…: Hi Jessie

Long time no see! Hope things are good for You!

At 4:38pm on June 29, 2008, Dave Yoho said…: Hello Jessie, It's my pleasure to connect with you here on jazzburgher. peace, Dave Yoho

At 5:23am on June 25, 2008, Eric Riebling said…: What a great surprise to have Caravan come on first visit here. I quite enjoy turning that song inside out every time we attempt to play it ;) Because, any tune can turn into Caravan if you stay on the V long enough.

Who are these cats? Clearly pros! Great stuff.

-er

At 7:10am on June 24, 2008, Marly Ikeda said…: Nice to meet you Jessie!
All the best!
Kisses,
May

At 4:46am on June 24, 2008, Rob Jones said…: Hey Jessie! Glad to see you in the network. You're in my iPod with the Tuba Guy. Hope all's well and that the gigs just keep coming.

Thanks,
Rob