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Irene Sage
Her appearance in the new movie documentary release Deacon John and the Jump Blues placed her along side these legendary musicians as a budding legend herself. Though her musical appeal rests in rock and blues roots, she is well admired for her own compositions ranging from powerful rock ballads to hard driving blues reminiscent of the old great classic rockers Janis Joplin, Ann Wilson of Heart with whom she shared a stage with for two nights in a row at the Famous Door on Bourbon Street for an all night jam, and Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac. Her live performances reach intensities on par with Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. Her Joplinesque singing and energetic performances surpass Joplin herself, as is repeatedly pointed out by fans and critics alike. New Orleans boasts of Irene’s talents and supports her by showcasing her as a big act in New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festivals. In 2001 and 2002 she was the top third seller at Jazz Fest with her two CD’s Come on In and Live at the Leaf. Denny Cordell, prior Island Records president, recognized Irene’s power in the major motion picture The Pelican Brief, where Irene sang and performed two of her original tunes. This led to a 7 album deal with Island that never reached the starting line upon Denny’s death. Due to creative differences with Island Records and no longer having Denny as a promoter of who she shared philosophical and artistic angles with, Irene opted out of her contract. She continues to sing, perform and create her own music in New Orleans where she is widely regarded as a local treasure. Reviews: Don’t Say Goodnight (1997) “Sage’s vocals are remarkably strong and passionate, but it’s her delivery that even more impassioned.” “In all this CD is flawless and polished. Don’t Say Goodnight has to be one of the most impressive releases to hit the Big Easy this year.” - offBeat, 1997 Come on In (2001) “Sage has an amazing voice with enough power to bring down the walls of Jericho.” “Come on In is a solid set of original tunes that have a fresh sound with classic feel. Top notch all the way.”
“Sage throws powerful chops into a spicy new blend.”
“Sounds are smokey, confident and sexy”
Live at the Leaf (2002) “Sage’s strong, confident vocals are front and center all the way: “Irene Sage fans will doubtless find this album to be the one they’ve been waiting for all these years, while those new to her music should enjoy this strong, energetic introduction to a singer whose time has come to meet an ever wider listening audience.”
Soul to Soul (2004) “Soul to Soul finds Sage and her stellar band delving into engaging original material performed with flair. The music has a consistent and appealing mid-tempo flair.” “Sage has always been an unpretentious as it gets, a diva in blue jeans always opting for the natural smile over the bitchy pout.” “Sage possesses an authoritative presence and projects power with a sexy toughness that is undeniable.”
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Irene Sage’s multifaceted musical talents have earned her the respect of her native New Orleans legendary predecessors like Allen Toussaint, Dr. John, Irma Thomas and Deacon John. She has acquired the interest of thousands of fans over the 15 years of her professional career as consummate singer, songwriter and performer. |