AN Exclusive Interview with Diane Durrett
An Exclusive interview with Diane Durrett by Richard Lhommedieu on Mixcloud
“She’s good. She’s damn good.” Sting’s summation of his duet with singer songwriter Diane Durrett speaks for anyone who’s ever heard her perform. In 2013 Durrett was elected to the board of governors (vocal seat) by the Atlanta chapter of the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences best known for its Grammy Awards. A Memphis reporter once wrote that Diane’s performance was so powerful that “If you don’t go see her she may just come see you!” With a blend of raw soulful vocals, sultry tones and strong original songs Durrett has sung with Sting, The Indigo Girls, Gregg Allman, Chuck Leavell (Rolling Stones) and Peter Stroud (Sheryl Crow).
She has opened shows for Tina Turner, Faith Hill, Little Feat, Delbert McClinton, and Derek Trucks. As well lending her vocals to recording sessions for Grammy award winning producer Brendan O’Brien.
Durrett has long reflected the musical passions that inspired her while growing up in Atlanta, GA. From her energy-driven breakthrough debut 50,000 Volts of Soul (1993) to her superbly executed Rhythm of Life (1998) to her acoustically-driven CHILL (2004), to the LIVE CD, Georgia On the Groove (2007), to the groovy Blame It On My DNA (2009) produced by Ike Stubblefield to her Holiday CD Georgia Christmas (2012) to her latest release Soul Suga’ & Diane Durrett (2015). Diane’s single “Woohoo”, received first round Grammy consideration.
Diane’s song catalogue includes co-writes with Jerry Ragovoy (Piece of My Heart), Emily Sailers (Gallileo), Kristen Hall (Baby Girl), Bonnie Bramlett (Superstar), and William Bell (Born Under A Bad Sign). In true writer’s spirit, Diane also, authored a book called “Driving Music City” published by Amazon in 2009.
Diane is not only an artist but a producer as well. She started producing in major studios in the early 90s but in 2010 she began her artist development company Blooming Tunes Music. Since then Diane has coached numerous singer/songwriters and produced CDs on up and coming artists. Julie Thames’ single “September Rain” remained in rotation for six months on Atlanta’s 94.9 The Bull Backyard Country. As well as spins for Blooming Tunes artist Kelsey Oakley who sang Diane’s song “Alan Jackson Highway.”
Durrett is a down-to-earth-diva. She sings from her soul, writes with heart & humor. Diane brings her southern wit and charm to every event. She’s pure entertainment!
