Courtesy Nonesuch Records
Kathrine Dawn Lang, raised in Consort Alberta, Is as Canadian as they come. WHile attending college in Red Deer, she became fascinated with singer Patsy Cline, and went on to form a tribute band called the “Reclines”. One of the first of the so-called “Cow-Punk” performers, she soon gained acceptance from Country radio, and began to develop quite a following, especially in Canada, where she won the 1985 Juno for Most Promising Female Performer. A Nashville album followed, and then a spot in the closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics, and a duet with Roy Orbison gained her international attention.
As Pride Month continues, we salute Johnny Mathis, as our Lounge Artist of the Week. Johny was born in Texas, but raised in San Francisco. His father, who had played piano and performed inVaudeville, recognized his son’s tallent early on, and bought a $25 piano to encourage Johnny’s tallent. Johnny began performing at social functions, and undertook voice training when he reached the age of 13. BUt singing was only one thing he excelled at. He was also a star athlete, and came very close to beating the Olympic high jump record while he was in college. In fact, in 1956 he had to make a choice between a career in music, and joining the American Olympic High Jump team. Fortunately he chose music.