UNCONVENTION22: Mike Walker: Musician

"Here’s To LIfe - Shirley Horn - it's been one of my favourite albums since it came out about 20 years ago. When I first heard it I was attracted to Johnny Mandel's string arrangements which were typically lush.  

What was so interesting though was that Shirley Horn really takes her time when she sings.  

It’s almost like Mandel had listened to her phrasing and matched that.  

I’d be interested to find out whether he actually put them on afterwards or whether they did it together because the kind of sinuous feeling of them both is just incredible.  

Also it’s Shirley Horn - who I’ve always loved, who really personalises a song and tells the story of the song as well as telling her own story at the same time. 

I just think it’s a beautiful reflection of the ups and downs that we all go through, it’s great - it resonates with me. 

Beautiful." 

Mike Walker: Todmorden, 26th October 2011 

Shirley Horn: Here's to Life released 1992Johnny Mandel 

Mike Walker