Pianist, vocalist and entertainer extraordinaire Darnell White is known to bring audiences to their feet, summoning standing ovations for his singular style and heartfelt renditions of popular tunes. We recently sat down with Darnell as a part of our new series, TAKE 10, where we asked him 10 quick questions about his history and musical style. Get to know Darnell before his slate of May gigs at Club Room beginning May 3rd. Reserve HERE.
Hometown? Harlem, NYC
First piano teacher? Joseph Williams. He was the Dean of Music at Columbia University, and he was also the musician at our church. He discovered I could play and was my first big mentor.
Tell us about your first professional gig. Noon mass at Saint Paul’s on 60th Street.
Biggest musical influences? Glenn Gould, Oscar Peterson Stevie Wonder.
Most memorable show you’ve ever seen? The original “The Wiz” on Broadway.
Most memorable show you’ve ever played? A recent one with Melba Moore at 54 Below. Melba was one of the first Broadway stars I had become familiar with in “Purlie.”
You’re known for unusual covers of famous songs – tell us about one in particular. Radiohead’s “Creep” is my favorite song. I heard it when it was a new song have loved it ever since!
Give us 5 of your favorite places to eat/go/hear music in NYC. Any good Broadway show, Le Bernardin, Porterhouse, 54 Below, and of course, the Roxy Bar and Club Room!
Strangest song request you’ve ever received? ”Jolene,” Ice Cube’s “Today Was a Good Day.”
Why do you love performing at The Club Room? It’s classy and intimate and has a great sound person, And the staff are awesome!
