Canadian born, NYC-based jazz pianist and singer, Brenda Earle Stokes' career is a testament to Emerson's idea that life is a journey, not a destination.
Brenda has fused a passion for the piano and a love of singing into a vibrant career that spans genres easily.
Her career has seen Brenda perform at venues like the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall and the Toronto Jazz Festival. While she has performed with artists such as Wycliffe Gordon, Donny McCaslin and Maurice Hines.
Ahead of an Australian tour, Brenda shares five things you can thank Canada for.
1. 'The Handmaid's Tale'
If you've been binge watching this dystopian fantasy, then you've become privy to the amazing imagination of author Margaret Atwood. 'The Handmaid's Tale' has been required reading in Canadian high schools since it was first published in 1985. It's Canada's 'Catcher In The Rye'.2. The Bloody Caesar
This brunch favourite among Canadians follows a similar recipe as its cousin the Bloody Mary, with the addition of clam juice. Trust me, your boozy Sunday morning will never be the same.3. Oscar Peterson
One of the greatest pianists of America's jazz music is... Canadian?! Hailing from Montreal's predominantly black Saint Henri neighbourhood, he lived much of his life in Mississauga, Ontario, when he wasn't touring the world.4. The Wonderbra
Transforming something utilitarian into something that celebrated women's curves, the Wonderbra changed how women felt about their bodies way before Victoria's Secret came to be. Its founder and designer, Moe Nadler, is to thank, and yes he is Canadian.5. Ryan Gosling
I mean, come on. He's from London, Ontario.
Image @ NASA/ Aubrey Gemignani
Brenda Earle Stokes Tour Dates
Sun 13 Jan - Artsworx (Toowoomba)Wed 23 Jan - Doo-Bop Jazz Bar (Brisbane)
Thu 24 Jan - Jazz Lab (Melbourne)
25-26 Jan - Paris Cat (Melbourne)
