YolanDa Brown: ‘I fell in love with the saxophone, it became my voice’
Musician, broadcaster, author, composer, YolanDa Brown is a woman of many talents.
As a saxophonist, Brown has toured with The Temptations, Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, and Billy Ocean, and collaborated with artists including Dave Stewart and Kelly Jones. In 2009 she became not only the first musician to be nominated for the Best Jazz award at the MOBOs in consecutive years, but also the first to win the accolade two years running.
As a broadcaster Brown has worked across television and radio, hosting BBC Proms concerts, including The Last Night of the Proms, Gospel Choir of the Year, and BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year. Though she is perhaps best known for presenting the multi-award-winning CBeebies show YolanDa’s Band Jam which, with the age of some impressive guest stars, has helped introduce the power of music to a generation of children.
The success of YolanDa’s Band Jam has seen it evolve into a live show, which has appeared at festivals including Camp Bestival and Big Feastival, as well as selling out our own Royal Festival Hall on several occasions. In February, Brown brings her Band Jam back to the Southbank Centre as part of our Imagine Children’s Festival, and ahead of that concert we caught up with her to talk about her musical inspirations, the inspiration for Band Jam, and ultimately, the pursuit of Beyonce’s email.
Did you always want to be a musician?
Yes, I've always had a deep love for music from a very young age. My earliest musical memory is listening to my dad play music from his extensive genre-hopping record collection. We listened to everything from jazz to reggae, classical to latin and everything in between. I remember being captivated by the beautiful melodies and the way the music made me feel. It was a magical experience that ignited my passion for music.
Was the saxophone always destined to be your instrument?
Initially, I played the piano, drums and a few other instruments but the saxophone was different, using my own breath to create sound was new to me. I fell in love with its rich and soulful sound. From that moment, I knew the saxophone was the instrument for me. It became my voice and has been a constant companion on my musical journey.
‘I fell in love with the saxophone’s rich and soulful sound. From that moment, I knew it was the instrument for me. It became my voice.’
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to be a musician when they grow up?
Enjoy making a sound, don’t become lost in the technicality of the instrument and then forget to enjoy music making. I would advise aspiring musicians to never stop learning and practising. Music is a lifelong journey, and dedication and perseverance are key. Also, don't be afraid to explore different genres and styles – that's how you'll find your unique voice. Most importantly, always follow your passion and love for music.
Which musicians have had the greatest influence on you and your own music?
Far too many! And it would be impossible to fit them all in this answer! There are so many incredible musicians from Sonny Rollins to Michael Jackson, Monty Alexander to Michel Camilo. Their innovative approaches to music and their ability to convey emotions have been a constant source of inspiration for me.
What’s your favourite piece of music to perform?
It's hard to pick just one, but I absolutely love performing jazz standards like ‘Summertime’, ‘Misty’ and ‘My Funny Valentine’. These songs have timeless melodies and provide a platform for improvisation, allowing me to express myself creatively during performances. I do also love reggae music and anything by Bob Marley adds a smile to my face.
And what is your favourite to listen to?
When I'm not performing, I enjoy listening to a wide range of music. One of my favourite albums of all time is Another Level by Blackstreet. I do also love the saxophonist Kirk Whalum.
What is your most memorable performance so far?
Performing on a plane! Yes! A British Airways flight. It was the inaugural flight for the London to New Orleans route, and on it I performed a double headline gig with Nicole Sherzinger. Our stage? The aisle from first class to economy and back, everyone was up and dancing, it was just awesome!
‘I have two children and so I can see firsthand the power of music in children. Music has the power to inspire and uplift, and I wanted to make it accessible to kids in a fun and engaging way.’
What led to you creating your Band Jam and making music for children?
It was such an honour to present YolanDa's Band Jam on CBeebies. I have two children and so I can see firsthand the power of music in children. Taking the show from TV to a live audience for children and families was a natural progression for me. I wanted to share the joy and excitement of music with the younger generation. Music has the power to inspire and uplift, and I wanted to make it accessible to kids in a fun and engaging way.
Is your approach to performing for young audiences any different to how you approach concerts for adults?
My approach is exactly the same regardless of the audience. It's important to keep the energy high and make the experience as interactive and entertaining as possible. It's all about creating a positive and memorable musical experience regardless of the audience.
You’ve had some incredible guests play with you and the Bandjaminals, if you could have anyone come and play with the group who would it be?
If I could have any guest join us on YolanDa's Band Jam it would be the legendary Stevie Wonder. His music transcends generations, and his ability to connect with people through his songs is extraordinary. Having him perform with us would be a dream come true and a magical musical experience for both kids and adults alike. I would also love Beyonce and Adele, I mean they are both mums, who do I email to make it happen?
You can see YolanDa Brown and her Bandjaminals as they join us here on Monday 12 February as part of our Imagine Children’s Festival.