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Playlist: De’Borah – Top 10 Female Vocalists of All Time

• 9th Dec 2015

Encouraged by her father who brought her up on a nourishing diet of Gospel music and Stevie Wonder classics, De’Borah‘s soulful edge sets her apart from her contemporaries. Couple that with the Joni Mitchell-influenced story-telling and you have a singer-songwriter whose longevity is all but assured.

Her new record ‘Chambers On A Sleeve’, a play on the phrase “heart on the sleeve”, is a thoughtfully conceived four-track collection out now, so we caught up with her to find out about the female vocalists who have so far inspired her career.

Check out her new EP here and see below for an exclusive playlist featuring her Top 10 Female Vocalists of All Time:

Commenting on the women she’s chosen for her playlist, De’Borah says; “Great vocalists have the courage to express both themselves and the lyrics of a song from a true and honest place. Alongside the technicality of using their voice as a musical instrument, their heart connection with the lyrics of a song is what sets them apart to move and inspire musicians and audiences alike.”

Karen Carpenter

“I think Karen Carpenter’s voice is the most beautiful voice of all time. Universal and timeless – when you hear it it’s like time itself literally stops. Her voice is one that can soothe your mind, make you think or simply cry.”

Billie Holiday

“When I heard this song, for the first time in my life, I realised what great responsibility I have as a singer. Billie does more than sing a song, she’s represents something so much bigger than what she is and brings it to life right in front of you – like an actor on stage. She paints pictures, tells stories, protest, confides, laments, and so much more.”

Lauryn Hill

“Lauryn Hill shows us what’s possible with her voice, and not only technically. With or without her incredible vocal acrobatics she’s able to express her emotions and convey a message in a very powerful way.”

Joni Mitchell

“I love the way Joni Mitchell uses different shades of her voice to paint the (brilliantly written) words of her songs. Her phrasing, range and dynamics never cease to take us on a wondrous journey.”

Yolanda Adams

“What I love about Yolanda Adams is that (as Gospel folk might say) she’s not afraid to look ‘ugly’. Not only is she an amazing singer technically, but her gut-wrenching performances speak of a freedom that can’t help but liberate audiences.”

Mary J Blige

“No matter what song, stage or decade – Mary J Blige always gives us herself and nothing less. Naked and bare, there’s a vulnerability, strength and beauty in her voice that touches us all.”

Eska

“Technically ESKA is an unbelievable vocalist. She truly uses her voice as an instrument, always revealing to us new colours, themes and possibilities.”

Whitney Houston

Although singing seems like the most natural thing to Whitney, I think she’s one of the most courageous vocalists of all time. She manages to release a sound that comes right from her spirit, and it resonates with us all.

Eva Cassidy

“Eva Cassidy makes us fly with her voice, exposing us to the beauty, simplicity and joy in life even amidst pain.”

Cece Winans

“Whenever I hear CeCe’s voice, I’m immediately calm and at peace. She is truly a gifted singer and communicator.”