The jazz meets country/bluegrass tradition has always been a fascinating and complex one, with each genre bringing its own unique sound and style to the table. One artist who has been making waves in this space is Farayi Malek, a Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist, composer and singer-songwriter.
Farayi Malek is a graduate of the New England Conservatory and Berklee Global Jazz Institute, with a strong background in jazz and country/bluegrass music.
* Her musical influences range from the jazz greats Ella Fitzgerald and Stevie Wonder to country and bluegrass legends Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. * Malek’s music often incorporates elements of old-time music, gospel, and blues, reflecting her diverse musical upbringing and experiences. Mark Herz of GBH’s Morning Edition sat down with Malek to discuss her music, influences, and artistic vision. Herz: Can you tell us a bit about your musical background and how you came to blend jazz and country/bluegrass traditions?
Malek:

“I grew up in Idaho, where I was introduced to the fiddle and old-time music, country, and gospel. As I studied jazz in high school and college, I decided to go back to my roots and explore the music that I enjoyed during my childhood. The music on this debut EP reflects my diverse musical identity and the connections between jazz, country, and blues.”

* Malek’s approach to jazz is deeply rooted in her love for storytelling and lyrical poetry, drawing inspiration from singers like Ella Fitzgerald and Dolly Parton. * She cites Stevie Wonder as a major influence, praising his ability to blend pop and jazz styles. Herz: What about your influences from the country and bluegrass traditions? Who do you draw on for inspiration?
Malek:

“Country and bluegrass legends like Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Patsy Cline have been a huge influence on me. I love the storytelling and the emotional depth that they bring to their music. Stevie Wonder is also a huge influence, and I think that’s why I’m drawn to jazz so much – there’s a similar sense of innovation and experimentation in both styles.”

* Malek’s approach to jazz is often compared to that of country singers, with a focus on storytelling and lyrical delivery. * She cites Whitney Houston’s pop hit “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” as an example of how she incorporates complex jazz harmonies into her music. Herz: That’s fascinating. Can you tell us about your cover of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody”? How did that come about?
Malek:

“I work with a nonprofit organization called Salt Lick Incubator, which helps emerging artists with grant funding and videos. The president, Liza Levy, suggested that I cover this song, and I was initially hesitant but eventually fell in love with it. The arrangement I came up with, featuring lively fiddle and re-harmonized guitar, really resonated with me, and I committed to it.”

* Malek’s cover of “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” showcases her ability to blend jazz and country/bluegrass traditions in a unique and captivating way. * The song features a rootsy acoustic guitar and fiddle arrangement, demonstrating Malek’s mastery of folk and country styles.

Farayi Malek’s debut EP Edge of the Earth is a testament to her unique artistic vision and her ability to blend jazz and country/bluegrass traditions in a way that is both authentic and innovative.
Farayi Malek’s Musical Influences
* Jazz greats: Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder
* Country and bluegrass legends: Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline
Farayi Malek’s Musical Style
* Jazz: deeply rooted in storytelling and lyrical poetry
* Country and bluegrass: emphasizes emotional depth and rootsy acoustic instrumentation
Farayi Malek’s Debut EP Edge of the Earth
* Blends jazz, country, and blues traditions
* Features a rootsy acoustic guitar and fiddle arrangement
* Showcases Malek’s mastery of folk and country styles
Farayi Malek’s Inspirational Message
* “All American music is rooted in the blues. The blues music comes largely from the stories of the Black experience in America.