Making Pink Martini: Ingredients for Universal Success
Comprised of a dozen musicians with fan bases worldwide, Pink Martini is more than just a jazz band. With pianist Thomas Lauderdale at the helm and vocal sensation China Forbes leading the charge, the group knows how to turn a single stage into a universal experience. Here are a few fun facts about the band before they join us at Arts Commons on May 19th as part of Arts Commons Presents’ TD Jazz series.
Founder Thomas Lauderdale was on the road to office before Pink Martini
In 1994, Thomas Lauderdale was working in politics, intent on climbing the political ladder and eventually running for mayor of Portland, Oregon. At the same time, there was an attempt to amend the Oregon State Constitution to illegalize homosexuality, known as Measure 13, to which Thomas was virulently opposed. He began his campaign in opposition to the amendment in 1994. He would’ve continued on with his political aspirations had it not been for one fateful event.
Pink Martini was born out of Drag
Thomas attended fundraiser after fundraiser on his campaign journey, only to realize that the entertainment for such events was sorely lacking. In an attempt to liven up the voters, Thomas brought in three women guitarists who strutted mini skirts and big hair, their performances livening up nursing homes and rotary meetings––and each time signing off with "Vote NO on Measure 13!"
Then, on the night of a big event, the main act didn't show up. So Thomas took the proverbial bull by the horns, slipped into a cocktail dress, and stepped on stage. Pink Martini was born.
Pink Martini's song Sympathique became a symbol for France's working class
Their first album, Sympathique, became a big hit in France (much to the band's surprise). The title track was subsequently nominated for "Song of the Year” at France’s Victoires de la Musique Awards and the song’s phrase “Je ne veux pas travailler” today stands as a mantra for striking French workers.
Primary vocalist China Forbes has performed with the likes of Carol Channing and Rufus Wainwright
Having met Thomas Lauderdale while at Harvard, China Forbes officially joined the band in 1995 and has written many of their most beloved songs, including Sympathique, Lilly, and Let's Never Stop Falling in Love. Her songs encompass over twenty languages and she has performed duets with the likes of Michael Feinstein, Jimmy Scott, Georges Moustaki, Henri Salvador, Saori Yuki, Faith Prince, Carol Channing and Rufus Wainwright. Having performed in venues like Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House, China Forbes is one undeniable powerhouse.
They sing in 25 different languages
A large part of Pink Martini's identity is it's worldwide accessibility. From French to Spanish, Japanese and Mandarin, their music encompasses people of all nationalities and languages to create a unifying experience.
Join Arts Commons Presents and TD Jazz for Pink Martini featuring China Forbes this May!
Thank you to TD Bank for being a sponsor of this series.
