Vi Redd: Jazz Legend and Manifesting Generator

Vi Redd, born on September 20, 1928, in Los Angeles, California, is an American jazz alto saxophone player, vocalist, and educator, celebrated for her significant contributions to the bebop, hard bop, and post-bop styles of jazz. Known for her dynamic performances and rich musicality, Redd’s career spans over several decades, during which she has played with some of the most iconic names in jazz. Her 1963 album Lady Soul features many prominent jazz figures of the day, showcasing her exceptional talent and unique flair.

Early Life and Musical Influences

Vi Redd was born into a family deeply rooted in the jazz scene. Her father, Alton Redd, was a distinguished New Orleans jazz drummer and co-founder of the Clef Club, a pivotal figure on the Central Avenue jazz scene. This rich familial legacy profoundly influenced Redd’s formative years, nurturing her passion for music from an early age. Another key mentor in her life was her paternal great aunt, Alma Hightower, who played a critical role in shaping her musical journey.

Manifesting Generator: Redd’s Human Design

Incorporating Vi Redd’s Human Design adds a fascinating layer to understanding her life and work. As a Manifesting Generator, Redd embodies a unique blend of energy and creativity, characterized by her ability to multitask effectively and bring ideas to life with vigor and enthusiasm. Her Sacral Inner Authority guides her through intuitive responses to life’s opportunities, allowing her to make decisions that align with her true self.

Redd’s Strategy, “To Respond,” highlights her natural propensity to react to life’s stimuli, using her responses to navigate the musical opportunities that have come her way. Her Profile as a 5/1 indicates a powerful combination of leadership qualities and investigative skills, which she uses to delve deeply into her craft, emerging as a figure others look up to and learn from.

Musical Career Highlights

Vi Redd began her professional career in the early 1950s, quickly establishing herself as a formidable presence in the jazz world. She has performed alongside legends like Count Basie, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Linda Hopkins, Marian McPartland, and Dizzy Gillespie. Redd’s ability to infuse her performances with soul and authenticity resonates with audiences worldwide, making her an integral part of the jazz narrative.

In 1962, Redd showcased her talent in Las Vegas, and by 1964, she was touring with Earl Hines. Her leadership capabilities shone through when she led a group in San Francisco during the mid-1960s with her husband, drummer Richie Goldberg. This period also saw her collaborate with Max Roach, further cementing her status as a jazz powerhouse.

International Tours and Recognition

Throughout her prolific career, Vi Redd has taken her music to international stages, performing in Japan, London, Sweden, Spain, and Paris. Her unprecedented 10-week engagement at Ronnie Scott’s in London is a testament to her widespread appeal and the exceptional nature of her performances.

After settling in Los Angeles in 1969, Redd continued to enrich the local jazz scene while dedicating herself to education. She has recorded under labels such as United Artists and Atco, contributing significantly to the jazz discography. Her commitment to the arts extends beyond performance; she served on the music advisory panel of the National Endowment for the Arts in the late 1970s.

Awards and Legacy

Vi Redd’s contributions to jazz have not gone unnoticed. In 1989, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Los Angeles Jazz Society, affirming her lasting impact on the music industry. The Kennedy Center honored her in 2001 with the Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Award, recognizing her as a trailblazer and inspiration for women in jazz.

The Channels of Vi Redd’s Creativity

Exploring the channels of Redd’s Human Design can provide further insight into her creative prowess. Channels like “57-20” (Integration), “20-10” (Awakening), and “34-10” (Exploration) reflect her ability to integrate personal experiences into her art, awaken audiences through authentic expression, and explore new dimensions of music.

The “15-5” (Rhythm) channel underscores her innate sense of rhythm and timing, essential for any jazz musician, while the “42-53” (Development) channel illustrates her continuous growth and evolution as a musician and educator.

FAQs about Vi Redd

Who influenced Vi Redd’s early musical development?

Vi Redd was deeply influenced by her father, Alton Redd, a key figure in the Central Avenue jazz scene, and her great aunt, Alma Hightower, both of whom played instrumental roles in her musical upbringing.

What is Vi Redd’s Human Design Type?

Vi Redd is a Manifesting Generator, known for her vibrant energy and ability to multitask and manifest ideas with enthusiasm.

What are some highlights of Vi Redd’s international career?

Vi Redd’s international career highlights include performances in Japan, London, Sweden, Spain, and Paris, with a notable 10-week engagement at Ronnie Scott’s in London.

What awards has Vi Redd received?

Vi Redd has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Los Angeles Jazz Society in 1989 and the Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Award from the Kennedy Center in 2001.

What are some of the channels in Vi Redd’s Human Design?

Vi Redd’s Human Design channels include “57-20” (Integration), “20-10” (Awakening), “34-10” (Exploration), “15-5” (Rhythm), and “42-53” (Development), each highlighting different aspects of her creativity and growth.