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Best Jazz Performer 39.59% Francie Zucco*
Others with Votes:
1998 Winner: Bob Greene
1997 Winner: Arlene Skiles
* On the ballot
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This year was no different. Singer Francie Zucco won the category for the third time in the last three years. Previous winners were saxophonist Bob Green and singer Arlene Skiles. This year, Zucco beat youthful trio Free Time, and therein lies an example of Zucco’s generosity toward other musicians. At least year’s Whammy show, Zucco performed and was backed by the talented trio of Snider High School students. She spent much of her off-stage time singing the trio’s praises and ensuring they had the appropriate credit for being her band that night. That generosity extends to all of Zucco’s singing career these days. She plays with dozens of local musicians, putting together bands of different sizes and styles depending on what’s needed for that night’s gig. Sometimes she plays two shows in one night in different locations. For years, she has been a fixture at places such as Hall’s Triangle Park, Bill’s Bistro, Henry’s Restaurant and the Ramada Inn in Warsaw. Last year, she was instrumental in arranging a musical tribute in the wake of Sept. 11 She’s also put out a number of excellent jazz CDs, such as Modernicity and Like Lyrical. Her act is not confined to jazz, either. She is equally adept at the standards, Latin music, holiday tunes, really anything from the 20s to today. Plus, she is a very gracious and thoughtful person. She just happens to have a great set of pipes. Nice combination. Great lady. |
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There’s a tradition in Best of voting when it comes to the Best Jazz Band or Solo Artist category: Stick with the veterans over those pesky newcomers.