Few vocalists are more admired than Linda Eder. Inspired as a child by Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand and opera singer Eileen Farrell, she began performing cross country, then spent time as a lounge singer until a 12-week win on the television show “Star Search” invited her. to Broadway. For her starring role in Jekyll & Hyde, she won the Theater World Award for Best Actress in a Musical, as well as Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle nominations.
Fourteen solo albums later, he presents “Now”, his latest CD. All the songs were composed by Frank Wildhorn, her ex-husband, who writes with his art in mind. Styles range from beautiful, soulful Broadway ballads to big-band pop numbers.
The thought-provoking and intimate lyrics were created by several of Wildhorn’s regular contributors, including Leslie Bricusse, Don Black, and Maury Yeston. Although most of the songs are new; several of Wildhorn’s previous musicals fit the mix very well. Among them are “No Finer Man” by Cyrano de Bergerac, “The Heat of the Night” by Waiting for the Moon and “Mad Hatter” by Wonderland.
Eder used to choose songs more based on melodies, but confesses that today he is looking for intelligent and meaningful lyrics. The lyrics to “No Finer Man” move her deeply because it reminds her of her father, a wonderful role model. He also loves the simplicity of ‘Ordinary People’ and the drama of ‘What’s Never Been Done Before’
Having heard Wilder talk about his Wonderland show, she was familiar with the song ‘Mad Hatter’ and really liked it. She chose “Heat of the Night” for its kind of big band swing that suits her naturally. She works thoughtfully. After Wilder has composed a melody, he gives it to them and they talk about it. The next time you choose a lyricist, the three of you will work back and forth until it seems right.
Eder is very selective about her commitments. At this point in her life, she limits them to weekends and relaxes on her 80-acre horse farm during the week to be a full-time mother to her son, now 12 years old. and his frequent colleague Michael Feinstein at his cabaret at New York’s Loews Regency, his fans flock to partake of his exuberant voice and dramatic performances. They are so devoted that she produces an official fan newsletter called The Voice. The June issue contained a “Now” lyric guide that you can follow as you sing along with Linda’s recording.
Like Feinstein, he has always held to the standards of the American songbook, but happily takes a chance on pop, country, and jazz. “Now” takes her in a new direction without losing her signature full tones and flexible instrument.