The timbre of Payne’s voice is so strikingly similar to Fitzgerald’s that there are moments when, if you close your eyes, you’d swear you were hearing the real thing. In numbers like “Mr. Paganini” and “Oh, Lady Be Good,” I closed my eyes and felt goosebumps form on my arms. But, perhaps best of all, she hits straight in the heart with a deeply emotional “My Buddy” – ironically, a song I don’t believe Fitzgerald actually ever recorded.

"Over the years – and even today – she sings it all, from big band music to pop to R&B to jazz."

Ella: First Lady of Song was one of the best productions I have seen all year, which in part is due to the amazing performance of Freda Payne and her "band" of gold"

"Freda Payne Returns to D.C. to Serenade Faithful Fans - Legendary Singer Belts Out Blues, Broadway and Jazz Standards"

"Motown star Freda Payne speaks about her memoir, new album and upcoming Seattle show"

“Her youthful voice is timeless, she scats very well on “It’s All Right With Me,” and her singing is full of joy

and swing. Decades may have passed but she is still in her musical prime."  L.A. Jazz Scene

“Band of Gold” Singer Freda Payne Drops a Hot Memoir and Reveals a Secret Affair with a US Senator!"

Choices. Intimacy. Respect

FREDA PAYNE’S LIFE STORY TOLD IN ‘GOLD’