Search - David Klein :: My Marilyn

Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) rose above a childhood marked by loneliness, chaos and neglect to become a psychological, cultural and spiritual phenomenon of the twentieth Century. She battled depression, anxiety, sexism and addiction to prescribed medication while establishing herself as a shining star, accomplished motion picture actress, and historical figure. She was the first public figure to disclose childhood sexual abuse, and the second female movie star to establish her own production company in order to rebell against the repressive policy of her studio. Before the advent of the modern women's movement, she eloquently discussed sexual objectivication of women and advocated for human rights. Thirty-nine years after her death, Marilyn continues to fascinate new generations with her legacy of vulnerability, strength, beauty and talent. Marilyn loved literature, art, and music and was a passionate jazz fan. Ella remembered how Marilyn had managed to have her booked at a Hollywood nightclub (that usually did not invite African American artists) and got her an overwhelming press attention by visiting the club every night. In Ella's own words: After that, I never had to play a small jazz club again. She was an unusual woman, ahead of her times, and she did not know it. On the occasion of Marilyn's 75th birthday, Swiss musician David Klein decided to honor this extraordinary woman with a unique jazz homage, using a choice selection of songs from her movies, most of which have not been recorded since her untimely death. An excellent tenor player who performed with Dee Dee Bridgewater, Billy Cobham, Kenny Clarke and others, Klein is also a founding member (and the drummer!) of the groundbreaking klezmer band Kol Simcha. For My Marilyn he chose a top-notch jazz trio from New York and a vocalist that he is familiar with since his earliest childhood: his mother Miriam. A well-known jazz singer in the 60s and 70s and admired for her Billie Holiday interpretations, Miriam Klein has recorded and performed with the likes of Dexter Gordon, Kenny Clarke, Roland Hanna, Slide Hampton and others. This is a welcome opportunity to meet her again in a marvellous, swinging tribute to a great artist. My Marilyn is presented in a packaging de luxe (including a wonderful booklet with many rare photos).