With over a decade of training in one of India’s most technical forms of music, called Carnatic Music, Seema is one of the torchbearers of this traditional music form in the United States.
Having been born and raised in India, Seema had the pleasure of learning and performing since the age of 10. After moving to the United States in the early 2000s, she broadened her vision and found a special love for Jazz and country music. She intends to make several distinct genres of music work in Harmony.
Seema has several music albums to her credit on Spotify and YouTube in classical, devotional, and contemporary genres. Her latest music album, Wind-Chyme, is a unique fusion, classical, and RAP experimentation collection.
In this unique representation of Indian folk and rap called the Janivara – Higher Power, Seema, rapper, and musician Zach Harrison attempts to infuse spirituality within rap interludes.
Seema believes a fine thread runs through connecting all humans and how Eastern spirituality is an answer to peace within.
Collaborating with the renowned award-winning, innovative American guitarist, composer Todd Mosby, and Jazz drummer Steve Davis has taken Seema over the horizon regarding her experiences in world music. The 6-member band also includes drummer hubby Prasanna Kasthuri. The American Raga performs traditional North and South Indian, Indo-Jazz improvs, and classical Beatles!
Audience members who came to hear the band said:
Seema finds her inspiration in her husband Prasanna Kasthuri, who is a well-known classical dancer and Indian drummer, and her fantastic dancer daughter Samanvita, who is a classically trained dancer with broad exposure to contemporary dances!
Denise Donatelli, a three-time GRAMMY® nominated vocalist, presents her latest album, “Whistling in the Dark – The Music of Burt Bacharach.” Released on August 27, 2021, this remarkable project showcases Denise’s lifelong love affair with the legendary songwriter’s music. Produced by the renowned Larry Klein, the album marks Denise’s first concept album dedicated to a single composer and highlights her exceptional collaboration with Klein.
Recorded live at The Village Studios in Los Angeles in October 2020, the album captures Denise’s warm vocal elegance accompanied by a hand-picked all-star jazz/pop quartet. The quartet includes Larry Goldings on piano and organ, Anthony Wilson on guitar, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, and Larry Klein himself on bass and additional keyboards.
“Whistling in the Dark” presents an intimate and soulful collection of Bacharach’s iconic hits, as well as some lesser-known gems. Denise breathes new life into classics like “The Look of Love” and brings her own interpretation to Warwick’s renowned songs such as “Walk On By,” “In Between the Heartaches,” “Anyone Who Had a Heart,” and “A House is Not a Home.” The album also features collaborations with Elvis Costello on poignant tracks like “Toledo” and “In the Darkest Place.”
Denise’s artistic journey leading up to this project has been shaped by her passion for jazz. Growing up in Allentown, PA, she fell in love with the genre, drawing inspiration from vocalists like Nancy Wilson, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, and Ella Fitzgerald. After launching her singing career in Atlanta in the early 90s, Denise moved to Los Angeles in 2000, immersing herself in the vibrant music community.
Throughout her career, Denise has collaborated with esteemed musicians and earned recognition for her exceptional talent. Her previous albums with producer/pianist Geoffrey Keezer garnered four GRAMMY nominations, including three for Best Jazz Vocal Album. In 2012, she was honored as Jazz Vocalist of the Year by The Los Angeles Jazz Society. Known as a “musician’s singer,” Denise’s innate musicianship and pure tone have captivated audiences and led to various notable performances, including appearances on “The Simpsons” and TV promos for popular shows and brands.
Denise’s connection to the American Heart Association holds a special place in her heart, honoring the memory of her son.
