Beverly Skeete - the sweetest blues woman

After the success of her last year's performances, we are honoured to have Beverly Skeete again in Guglionesi and are sure she will offer another memorable show!

She hails from London and has shared the stage with icons like Eric Clapton and Gary Brooker and has been the singer of the Rolling Stones bass player band, the Bill Wyman Rhythms King.

Here is a little bit more about her…

"For a blues performer, what aspects do you prioritise to create an authentic and captivating performance, especially when performing with a band?"

Firstly, having an audience that truly understands and appreciates the blues is crucial. That definitely sets the tone for the entire performance.

Secondly, the choice of songs is paramount. While I often select traditional blues tunes, I gravitate towards ones with compelling lyrics that resonate with me. I particularly enjoy songs with a cheeky and playful vibe, as they inject a sense of fun into the performance.

One of my favorite songs to perform is "I've Got My Mojo Working," which perfectly encapsulates the playful side of blues. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is desperately trying to win over a woman's affection, resorting to various tactics, including seeking out a witchcraft lady for a love potion. Despite his efforts, nothing seems to work, and he humorously laments, "Seems to work on everyone else, but it just don't work on you." I love the irony and humor in this song, which adds a layer of depth to the performance.

Finally, whether I'm performing solo or with a band, the essence of blues lies in its ability to evoke raw emotion and connect with people on a deep level. It's not just about playing the right notes; it's about capturing the soul of the music and letting it speak through every note and lyric.

"When you step in front of the band to perform, what drives you? Is it purely personal enjoyment, or do you also aim to connect with and impact your audience in a meaningful way?"

When I stand before the band, my aim transcends mere personal enjoyment. It's about establishing a profound connection with my audience, a reciprocity of emotion and energy. Yes, performing makes me feel alive, but it's more than that. It's about creating moments that resonate, that linger in the hearts of those listening long after the music fades.

In my shows, I weave stories, sharing the significance of each song, inviting my audience into my world. And in return, I seek their engagement, their smiles, their nods of understanding. There's an exchange happening, an unspoken dialogue where every note played and every word sung carries meaning beyond the melody.

So yes, while the stage is my platform, the spotlight my guide, the true essence of my performance lies in the connection forged with each member of my audience. It's a give and take, an exchange of emotions and experiences that makes every moment on stage truly unforgettable.

Do you believe that music and dance can change lives?

Absolutely, without a doubt. Music and dance possess an unparalleled power to transcend barriers, dissolve differences, and unite people in a way that few other mediums can.

This belief solidified for me last year in Guglionesi when I performed for the blues dancers who came from all over the world. What struck me most was to see a crowd so diverse, from the young to the elderly, yet so united. It was a profound reminder of the common humanity that binds us all together.

Music has this remarkable ability to dissolve inhibitions, to strip away the layers of worry and stress that burden us in our daily lives, to foster understanding, and to cultivate empathy. On that dance floor, I saw people shedding their worries, their troubles, and simply being in the moment. It was a beautiful sight to behold.

How did you navigate the predominantly male landscape of the blues music industry, considering its historical and ongoing sexism?

It has been both a challenging and sometimes disheartening journey. Many of the legendary blues artists, such as Etta James and Big Mama Thornton, faced significant barriers and often didn't receive the recognition they deserved. The roots of blues itself stem from a sexist environment, and unfortunately, that legacy still lingers today.

One of the major challenges for women in blues has been the lack of opportunities for touring and performing. Historically, women faced discrimination and discomfort while touring with all-male bands, often being treated as property rather than respected artists. This made it difficult for them to spread their music and gain the recognition they deserved.

Even today, I still encounter situations where I'm the only woman on the bill or where facilities aren't adequately equipped for female performers. It's a reminder that the industry has a long way to go in terms of gender equality.

Despite these challenges, I remain dedicated to the blues, standing firm in my worth and demanding respect. Supporting and empowering each other is crucial in paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Can you name two artists, one male and one female who have had a profound impact on your career?

Etta James and Nina Simone have had a profound impact on my career.

Etta James's emotive vocals struck a chord with me from the first moment I heard them. Her ability to infuse raw emotion into every note inspired me to connect with my own emotions when performing. Songs like "At Last" and "I'd Rather Go Blind" resonated deeply with me, teaching me the power of storytelling through music.

Similarly, Nina Simone's stage presence left an indelible impression on me. Attending one of her performances was a transformative experience. The way she commanded the stage and held the audience in rapt attention taught me the importance of connecting with my audience and maintaining a strong stage presence.

As for Sam Cooke, his smooth voice and poignant lyrics have also influenced me. "A Change Is Gonna Come" remains one of my favorite songs, its message of hope resonating deeply with me. Cooke's ability to convey profound emotion through his music continues to inspire me in my own performances.

Do you have a memorable experience from your time in Guglionesi in 2023?

One memorable experience from my last time in Guglionesi stands out vividly in my mind. It was one evening, and I was walking back to the apartment from the square, feeling a bit disoriented. I couldn't quite remember which road to take, and there I was, looking lost. That's when I encountered an elderly lady with a walking stick. Despite the language barrier – she couldn't speak a word of English – she seemed determined to help me. With gestures and taps of her stick, she directed my attention to the road. When I didn't quite grasp what she was trying to convey, she beckoned me over with a gentle hand motion. Taking my hand, she led me slowly down the street until we arrived at my destination. All she could muster was a simple "okay" before she departed.

That night left a profound impression on me. It made me reflect on how safe and secure I felt, even in unfamiliar surroundings. It was a stark contrast to the bustling streets of London, where walking alone at night might not feel as comfortable. But in Guglionesi, despite being a stranger in their midst, I felt a sense of ease and acceptance. The community's warmth and family-oriented atmosphere were palpable, even in the late hours. That first night's encounter with the kind-hearted lady will always hold a special place in my heart, serving as a reminder of the genuine hospitality I experienced in Guglionesi.

How can dancers and organizers, who may not be part of the culture from which a dance form originated, ensure that they contribute positively to its development?

Fostering inclusivity and active participation is crucial. Encouraging advocates to share positive experiences, recognizing dance's transformative power, and actively inviting others to partake in the joy of dance enriches lives and contributes to a vibrant community. Promoting dance as a source of joy, healing, and community ensures its continued evolution and enrichment of lives.