The key to Tessanne’s performance
THE decision by Adam Levine – Tessanne Chin’s coach on the NBC talent show The Voice — to raise the key for her performance of Jimmy Cliff’s Many Rivers to Cross, on Monday night, has resonated with at least two local artistes.
Singers Nadine Sutherland and Craigy T of the group T.O.K, who have both served as judges on the local talent show Digicel Rising Stars, are crediting the decision by the Maroon 5 lead singer for bringing out the best in both the Jamaican classic as well as highlighting Chin’s vocal capabilities.
“I am so happy Adam raised the key, as it allowed the emotional quality of the song, to come across,” said Sutherland. “There is a yearning quality to the song, so it can’t be flat, and that came across in the performance in a raised key. It also shows that Adam has great ears,” said Sutherland, whose early career was nurtured by Bob Marley.
Sutherland’s 1993 hit song Action, a collaboration with Terror Fabulous, was included by Vibe magazine at number 19 in its list of the 50 greatest duets of all time.
Sutherland’s sentiment was echoed by Craigy T, who is part of the dancehall quartet T.O.K known for tracks including Footprints, Eagles Cry and Gal You a Lead.
“For them [Adam Levine] to raise the key of the song was brilliant, and it showcased her vocal range yet maintained a soul and passion,” said Craigy T, whose given name is Craig Thompson.
Craigy T also has high praises for Levine, calling his choice of this Jamaican classic “truly brilliant”.
“The whole connection with Tessanne and Jimmy Cliff, from a backup singer to now a solo artiste, now shows growth and really played out well on stage,” he said.
Sutherland too picked up on this point calling it symbolic.
“Having sang backing vocals for Jimmy Cliff, it was as if she was paying respect to him with this track, but at the same stating loud and clear, here I am as a solo act.”
Neither could fault any aspect of Chin’s performance on Monday night.
Chin, now in the live rounds, will know whether or not she makes the Top 12 during the show tomorrow night.
