Musical release

Manawatu singer Vicki Lee's new album has been a labour of love and a family affair, and now everybody gets to share in it and enjoy the fruits of her efforts. EMMA GOODWIN gets a taste.

Goin 'back is Vicki Lee's first solo journey on CD, and has been a test of self-belief, especially when, last year in the middle of the project, her mentor died.

Sir Howard Morrison was instrumental in giving Lee and her singing partner at the time, Cindy Joe, a crack at the big time.

The big man then went on to become a very close friend of the pair, in particular Lee.

"I was about halfway through the project when Sir Howard passed away, and while the CD is not really about him, he had a huge impact on my journey, instilling self-belief and good work ethics."

Consequently, it is not surprising to discover that one song on the album is a musical tribute and personal thank you to him, and it was written in one morning.

"Irreplaceable is for Sir Howard and it's a highlight for me.

"The CD is an account of my musical journey and it wouldn't be complete without acknowledgement to him," she says.

Lee was concerned that people might think hat she was cashing in on Sir Howard's death with the song, but after phoning his widow, Kuia, her mind was put to rest.

"When I spoke to Kuia, she told me to go for it and not worry about what anyone else thought.

"She said if they had a problem with it, then that was their problem, not mine."

The rest of the songs on the album are lesser-known standards performed by big names, such as Frank Sinatra, Patsy Cline, Karen Carpenter, Neil Young, and Nat King Cole – "just to name a few", Lee laughs.

"My passion is keeping alive some of the most melodic, yet older songs, and recreating a new interest in these songs.

"While most people in my generation may have heard this music being played by their parents, a lot of the younger people around haven't, although singers like Michael Buble are helping make it popular again."

Lee found vocalists to contribute to the collection in the unlikeliest places.

The songstress persuaded her husband, Steve, to perform on the album singing Neil Diamond's September Morn.

"While he doesn't think so, Steve has a great voice and can sing really well. He wasn't that keen to start with, but he had a lot of fun and when he heard the final result he was pretty pleased."

Son Michael also showcases his talents by playing the haunting guitar solo I Dreamed There Was No War, originally performed by Glen Frey, of The Eagles.

"This was taking Michael out of his comfort zone, because he is normally a bass player. It's a beautiful piece and makes me think of a guitar crying out to the world."

Lee admits the album is a little self-indulgent, but she makes no apologies for that.

"This is music I love to sing and want people to hear. Most of the time I sing what people want me to sing. So this time it's a little about me."

It's probably a fair point to make that people will forgive her for this little indulgence when they hear the album.

Another first for Mrs Lee is that this time Goin' Back is being marketed by Marbecks and will be available at The Warehouse.

"That's huge for me, as usually I have had to market by word of mouth."

Lee is now working on another album in collaboration with Karl Perigo, due for release later this year.

"I love working with Karl. He is so much fun and has a wonderful voice. Many people think he should be singing pop and stuff, but his voice lends itself so well to this style of music.

"When our album comes out, I think people will be very surprised."

Mrs Lee has a busy year ahead, with five Massey papers to complete for her music degree and a possible tour on the cards with Karl Perigo.

"It's going to be an interesting year."

Irreplaceable, Vicki Lee's tribute song to Sir Howard Morrison, was written in one morning, and penned to show the respect and love for a person who was not only a friend to the Palmerston North singer, but an integral part of her musical career, and a mentor.

Irreplaceable

Thank you for your love and inspiration

You've touched so many people in this land

The hopes and dreams of future generations

Are nourished by your ever helping hand

Your music is embedded in this nation

A truly living lasting legacy

Your gift to us, is just sensational

Your time with us, is irreplaceable

Our love for you will endure for evermore

So here's to you and here's to all the magic

So many years of wisdom at your door

You've seen your way through seas of many changes

Lifes challenges, yes you have faced them all

Your journey has been blessed and rich in harvest

Respect and love for you, your just reward

Your gift to us, is just sensational (music)

Your time with us, is irreplaceable (style)

Our love for you will endure for evermore (you did it your way)

Words and music by Vicki Lee

- © Fairfax NZ News