Today we’d like to introduce you to Barbara Evans.
Barbara, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was born in Jersey City, the youngest of 11 children. Our family moved to Florida at my tender age of five. I was the only one amongst my siblings that had enough courage to lead a song in church, and it took off from there for me. Once I gained my confidence, I participated in music class in elementary school and chorus in middle school. When I got to high school, I excelled in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) class, and with it, I came close to joining the military.
However, television and fashion delighted me more, and I became a local fashion model at malls, tea rooms, etc. Being an extra on the tv soap opera “The Guiding Light” and working closely with Meg Ryan and Marisa Tomei was my first turning point. I never looked back after that. I have always been fascinated by foreign languages and the idea of traveling to Europe, so that influenced me to try my luck in the modeling world overseas. I learned Italian and made Milan, Italy my home for some years.
I soon got a bit frustrated by the fact that I was living in the beautiful country famous for its delicious cuisine and not being able to enjoy it since it became a problem to fit into all the clothes. After some years of discreet success and lots of struggle, I went back to my original passion which has always been music. From there, I collaborated with some of Italy’s most prominent recording artists. I got serious about it and studied voice with vocal coach Michele Fischietti, also known as the artistic director for the Italian X-Factor.
I quickly progressed and developed my own style and was then requested to back several international artists such as Mariah Carey and the Blues Brothers on their European tours. Another turning point in my career was when I was called upon to sing for the great Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti. From there, I started to get calls as an actress and tv host. After years of extraordinary experiences in the wonderful country of Italy, I decided to move back to the United States. I returned to the sunshine state of Florida to be exact.
Currently, I collaborate with some of the most outstanding musicians and am now touring my own show with Valerio Cantori as music director.
Has it been a smooth road?
During my career, the biggest struggle yet has been working in the fashion business. Unnaturally keeping your weight down was a big problem for most of the girls. And probably still is.
We’d love to hear more about what you do.
I not only tour with my own show, but I also perform private events, parties, corporate events and even some weddings with some of the most outstanding musicians ever.
What sets us apart is that we are versatile and take a fresh, international, creative approach to Pop, Jazz, and R’n’B, turning songs into lively, yet sophisticated renditions that capture today’s demanding audience.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Yes, our city is known and talked about all over the world, and people come from all over the world to celebrate here and/or have their events. It also is known for the Latino Effect!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.elitelivemusic.com
- Phone: (305)746-4828
- Email: info@elitelivemusic.com
Image Credit:
Will Bridges
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