The Natural Women Show hails from Toronto, and presents classic R&B with a focus on the music of Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin and other influential women in Black music of the 60s, 70s and 80s. The show celebrates some of the seminal recordings in American music history, by Black women in the industry. The band was founded by lead singer Jillian Mendez (Juno Award nominee and former recording artist with Island Records) and drummer Bryan Humphreys (Jeff Healey, Lou Pomanti, Emile d’Eon, Scott McCord). Joining them are keyboardist Jason Larmond (Glenn Lewis, Melanie Fiona), guitarist Tony Barrett (Rita Marley, Black Uhuru), saxophonist John Pagnotta (Liberty Silver ,George Olliver) and bassist Roger Williams (Shakura S’Aida, Ivana Santilli, Quisha Wint).
Jillian Mendez is a Toronto-based vocalist and songwriter who began singing when she was two years old. Jillian’s key musical influences include Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin, and Patti LaBelle. Her early work including being the opening act for R&B band Midnight Star and a vocalist with Juno-nominated R&B band Something Extra. Jillian co-wrote the Juno nominated R&B dance single “Destiny”, and released a remake of Roberta Flack’s, “Feel Like Making Love” on a compilation album along with such artists as Dream Warriors and Boo-Yaa Tribe. Her current work and live performance includes multiple genres including jazz, R&B, soul and classical.
Personnel:
Jillian Mendez – voice
Bryan Humphreys – drums
Jason Larmond – keys
Tony Barrett – guitar
John Pagnotta – saxophone
Roger Williams – bass
Check out: “Chain of Fools” “Respect”
