Leela James

Due to unforeseen events in close family, the concert in May was postponed. But we are now sure that 22 November will be a fantastic opportunity to experience Leela James! This spring we had several soul concerts at Cosmopolite, which really "grabbed" the audience. Now is the chance to experience soul at Cosmopolite again - and that with the "Goddaughter of Soul" herself!

"Singer Leela James keeps the fire torch for soul music high with her new album" writes essence.com in its review of "Thought U Knew". According to the website, the album is a reminder that R&B is by no means dead, and that the "Goddaughter of Soul" still deserves its title.

"One of the artists in modern soul who constantly delivers, and continues to raise his level" - Soul Bounce

"Vital, modern soul" - Chicago Reader

She herself says about the song "Right Back In It", which is part of the album: "This song highlights the importance of getting back to yourself, getting back to love and getting back to what makes you feel good." About his songwriting in general, James says that: "Life inspires me!"

"She's got Tina Turner in her, she's got Betty Lavette" - Rex Ridenout, songwriter

Leela James is an R&B "powerhouse", known for her soulful, but also powerfully present performances. About the status of the "Goddaughter of Soul", James herself says: "I think I have managed to maintain this status by being soulful and true to who I am."

Originally, it was Etta James who held the honorary title, and after her passing, James made the album "Loving you More…In the Spirit of Etta James". A review on Singersroom states: “When a young artist can ignite the spark of an older predecessor's music, in their own creative way and through the use of varied genres, then it is; commendable.”

"Leela James is one of the few soul singers from the South who can still deliver hits" - The Rolling Stone

Before and after the concert, DJ Audun Vinger plays:

Audun Vinger is a well-known cultural journalist, editor and presenter for several decades, but he is just as much a versatile music freak, concertgoer, record collector and DJ. When he plays the latter, it's especially soul and jazz funk that he's most into. In his younger days, he had the club Love Hangover at the legendary Headon from the last years of the 90s, and was among the first to have a club night at BLÅ with Contagious, where he has been very persistent. He has been and can be heard around Oslo's many nightclubs and at festivals across the country, and on NRK radio. Daytime and early evening, preferably in connection with concerts, are no obstacle. Adults also deserve to hear good dance music before they go to bed, he says. Or just nod your head.

Line up:

Leela James – vocals
Nynoka Brown – background vocals
Kila Jones - background vocals
Alex Plummer – keys
Archie Pearson – bass
Lebron Remmer – drums