Ruby Turner is a name that has been synonymous with soulful music for over 40 years. With a career spanning decades, she has been a key element of Jools Holland’s Hootenanny show on the BBC, and has also been a regular performer with Jools and his Big Band. But despite her success, Turner is not one to rest on her laurels. She is a constant innovator, always looking for new ways to express herself and connect with her audience.
In a recent interview, Turner spoke candidly about her approach to music, her experiences in the industry, and her upcoming concert with her own band. “I’ve always tried to stay true to who I am,” she said, “and for more than 40 years, that seems to have worked.” Turner’s music is a unique blend of jazz, blues, soul, and gospel, making her difficult to pigeonhole. She has released over 20 albums, each one showcasing her versatility and range.
When she’s not performing with Jools Holland’s Big Band, Turner is often found on stage with her own band, delivering intimate and powerful performances. Her upcoming concert at the Clitheroe Grand is a rare opportunity to catch her in a smaller setting, where she can connect with her audience on a more personal level. “I love theatre, but when you’re in a production, you’re saying the same lines every night,” she explained. “I like variety, I like to mix it up, and my career allows me to do that.”
Despite her success, Turner is not without her concerns about the music industry. “It’s very tough to be an individual in this industry now,” she said. “Everyone is on a guitar singing with angst in their voice because that’s what the industry wants. But I think people appreciate anything that’s genuine and authentic.” Turner is quick to praise the industry’s ability to produce talented artists, but she believes that the focus on commercial success can often overshadow the importance of artistic expression.
“Think of the artists who have succeeded over the years and are still successful today,” she said. “Look at Elton John or Van Morrison. You can’t think of them as one-dimensional; people appreciate anything they come up with.” Turner is also critical of the way the industry tries to pigeonhole artists, forcing them into specific genres or styles. “It’s so easy to get caught up in the industry which tries to pigeonhole artists; effectively the music industry is dictating what an artist should be and that’s not right,” she said.
As she prepares for her upcoming concert, Turner is excited to share her music with her audience. “I’ll have worked the setlist out before I go on,” she said, “but you also have to read the room once you get going. I know what I can bring in if I need to create a different mood.” Turner’s ability to adapt to her audience is one of her greatest strengths, and she is always looking for new ways to connect with her fans.
For Turner, music is a way to escape the pressures of the industry and connect with her audience on a deeper level. “Getting out in front of an audience with my band is a way to escape all the nonsense,” she said. “I get asked to do all these things which I know are not for me, but I’m in a position where I can turn them down. It’s difficult to avoid all the distractions and becoming caught up in all the nonsense.”
As she looks back on her 40-year career, Turner is grateful for the opportunities she’s had and the music she’s made. “I’ll fly the flag as long as I can,” she said. “I get asked to do all these things which I know are not for me, but I’m in a position where I can turn them down. It’s difficult to avoid all the distractions and becoming caught up in all the nonsense.”
Despite the challenges she faces, Turner remains optimistic about the future of music. “I think there are still some great artists out there, and I think people are still looking for something authentic and genuine,” she said. “It’s just a matter of finding them and giving them the platform to shine.” Turner is also grateful for the support of her fans, who have been with her every step of the way.
“I’m so grateful for the people who have followed me over the years,” she said. “They’ve been with me through all the ups and downs, and I’m so grateful for their loyalty and support.” Turner’s upcoming concert at the Clitheroe Grand is a rare opportunity to catch this soulful singer in an intimate setting. Don’t miss your chance to experience her unique blend of jazz, blues, soul, and gospel music, and to witness her enduring passion for her craft.
In the end, Turner’s story is one of perseverance and dedication. She has faced her share of challenges, but she has always remained true to herself and her music. As she takes the stage at the Clitheroe Grand, she will be surrounded by her band, her music, and her fans. It will be a night to remember, and a testament to the power of music to bring people together.