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By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief
Few artists encapsulate the essence of storytelling through music like Jacqui Dankworth does. Her latest album, Windmills, is a masterful blend of jazz, classical, and contemporary sounds, showcasing her unparalleled vocal talent and expressive depth. In an exclusive conversation, Jacqui shared insights into her upbringing, creative process, and the deeply personal connection she has with her music.
Growing up in the Dankworth household meant living in the midst of music royalty. Jacqui’s parents, Dame Cleo Laine and Sir John Dankworth were icons of the jazz world, paving the way for a legacy that Jacqui now proudly carries forward.
“Our house was always filled with music,” Jacqui recalled. “My parents were constantly rehearsing or hosting music schools. I didn’t realize as a child how extraordinary it was to have people like John Williams or James Galway in our garden giving lessons. Looking back, it was magical.”
However, music wasn’t Jacqui’s initial career choice. “I rebelled a bit,” she admitted. “I trained as an actress at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and went on to work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and in the West End. Acting gave me a foundation in storytelling that influences how I approach music today.”
Jacqui’s latest album, Windmills, represents a culmination of years of experience and a deep connection to the material. “These songs aren’t just songs to me—they’re stories I’ve lived with for years,” she explained. “I wanted to record pieces that were under my skin, songs that had become a part of me.”
The album features a stellar lineup of collaborators, including her husband, Memphis-born pianist and arranger Charlie Wood. “Charlie did all the arrangements for this record,” Jacqui said. “We also worked with the BBC Big Band, the Carducci String Quartet, and some incredibly talented musicians like Oli Hayhurst and Ralph Salmins. It felt like a musical family reunion.”
Each song on Windmills carries its own emotional weight. One particularly poignant track is “Will You Wait for Me?” which Jacqui wrote shortly after her father’s passing. “It came to me while I was waiting for my mum to pick me up,” she shared. “There was this mixture of sadness from losing my dad and the comfort of waiting for my mum. It’s a deeply personal piece.”
While Jacqui is often associated with jazz, she resists being pigeonholed. “I see myself as a singer who tells stories, regardless of genre,” she said. “Windmills reflects that—it’s not strictly jazz. There’s Brazilian music, folk, and even a touch of soul. For me, it’s about the emotion the song conveys.”
Her ability to transcend genres stems from a lifetime of musical exploration. “I love all kinds of music,” she noted. “While I’m proud of my jazz roots, I think versatility allows me to connect with a wider audience.”
Jacqui also credits her acting background for her ability to connect deeply with songs. “I approach music the way an actor approaches a scene,” she explained. “It’s about drawing from your own life experiences to bring authenticity to the performance.”
As Windmills finds its way into the hearts of listeners, Jacqui is preparing to take the album on tour. “We’re focusing on the UK for now, but I’d love to perform in the US again,” she said. “It’s been a while, but I’m hopeful we’ll make it happen.”
Jacqui’s hopes for the album are simple yet profound. “I want people to feel a sense of connection,” she said. “Music has this incredible power to heal and unite. If Windmills brings comfort or inspiration to someone, then I’ve done my job.”
Jacqui Dankworth’s Windmills is more than an album—it’s a reflection of her journey as an artist and a storyteller. With its mix of timeless classics and personal compositions, it’s a testament to her ability to evoke emotion and connect with her audience.
As Jacqui tours the album and continues to share her remarkable talent, she remains a shining example of artistry and legacy. For more on Jacqui Dankworth and Windmills, visit her official website or stream the album today.
You can listen to the unedited interview with Jacqui Dankworth on the Savoir Faire Audio Experience