[spreaker type=standard width=100% autoplay=true episode_id=6194268]
Operatic Soul is the marriage of two worlds that authentically define the sound captured by the songstress known as Bri Luv. Blessed with a vocal ability rooted in the church and enhanced in the classical world, one can truly say that God has bestowed an exceptional gift. Known to many as the songbird who can deliver vocal depth while infusing classical stylings and riffs over a beat, the versatility that Bri Luv brings is unmatched. Influenced by soul queens Jill Scott & Lalah Hathaway, as well as, opera diva’s such as Renee Fleming & Grace Bumbry, the vocal prowess of this lyric soprano/soulful alto is invigorating and refreshing.
Hailing from Richmond, Va, Bri began singing at the age of two & continued towards her destiny under the tutelage of world renowned opera diva, Carmen Balthrop at the University of Maryland @ College Park. Studying classical music, technique and stage presence under Carmen Balthrop was a hard task, but it proved successful as Bri solidified a confidence in vocal phrasing & breathing. Carmen molded Bri’s raw talent, extended her range and helped her establish a fullness in her voice that allowed her to flirt easily between her head voice & chest voice. Bri continued life on the stage, performing with the DC based dance troupe Step Afrika! Chosen for her amazing rendition of the Puccini aria “Vissi d’arte” , Bri was taken to stages all across the United States, as well as Canada. During her tenure with SA! Bri developed an exceptional vocal stamina that prepared her for the amazing things that would soon come. After her time with Step Afrika! Bri began working with many different Virginia musicians, most notably Chkn Grese, a Richmond band famous for their artistic styling of an array of music from go-go to traditional r&b. While mentored by her bandmates, Bri developed a niche for smooth & gutsy vocal phrasing as well as high energy performances. As a result of the musical relationships she developed in Virginia she was given the opportunity to share the stage with the likes of Faith Evans, Floetry, Raheem Devaughn, Melanie Fiona & many more at various music festivals and shows.
Bri is currently working on her highly anticipated solo debut, due out this year. The yet to be titled debut will be an honest look into love experienced and love lost. The music and feeling that is being created by Bri Luv is organic & unparalleled. Bri Luv states, “The very core of the sound known as operatic soul reminds you of the power & soul found in Jill Scott’s voice, the grace & technique of Shirley Verett & the subtle styling of MInnie Ripperton. Its infectious and it takes you to another place. Its everything that I am.” At the heart of it all, Bri Luv is not only excited about allowing others a peek into her life, but also that all will finally hear the merging of the two worlds she holds so dear. Operatic Soul. The essence of Bri Luv.
Check out Bri’s new single, Tired, on her website > http://www.briluv.com/
