Memories, Opinions, Stories & Moments
Beside the thrill and excitement of seeing Julia for the time, the next
best memory occurred a year later when I took my daughter to Joe's Pub
in NY for her birthday to see one of Julia's shows.
In her always gracious and personable way, Julia signed a Porcelain
poster; Happy Birthday, Lauren. I know she and I will always look back
on that 13th birthday with fond memories.
Larry Falco, The Bluesman
New York, NY
Drove an hour and a half through Arizona traffic, dust storms, and
monsoon just to see her. Never one to let her fans down, so despite
the rains, she continued to sing…while holding an umbrella! She was
absolutely charming!
Butch Dizon
Manila, Philippines
After listening to Porcelain, I became a fan of Julia's. Somehow, I
lost touch with her music during the next 10 years. On a business trip
to Pittsburgh in '98, I came across "East West". For some reason, I
didn't snatch it up but it renewed my interest in her music. With the
release of Concrete Love and That’s Life (which I purchased ASAP) I'm
now scrambling to add all of Julia's albums to my collection. "It's
Another You Day" form Concrete Love reminds me so much of my wonderful
wife that it has become one of my all time favorites. After missing the
east coast tour, I'm really
Paul Beardsley
Sumter, SC
We had the opportunity to meet and take pictures with Julia after the
show, and we told her that "Love Moves (in Mysterious Ways)" had been
our wedding song in July 1994. The band that played at our reception
was so impressed that the song was added to their standard set list and
they became instant fans!
Chris & Kerry DeBenedictis
Branford, CT
I witnessed Julia's gift of music during a trip to the UK during the
late 80's. I've been a fan ever since. I remember the day that "Falling
Forward" was released. I drove out into the deserts of Phoenix and
parked high on mountain. With the top down on the car, sunset upon me,
the winds making it's presence known, "I Can't Help Myself" started
playing. Julia's spirit was with me at that moment. Since then, my soul
feels incredible joy and ease every time I hear Julia's voice. Julia
will always be my musical Goddess. Thanks, Julia!
Xavier De Castillo
Phoenix, Arizona
LIKE CHAPTERS OF A BOOK JULIA'S MUSIC HAS SEEN ME AND MANY OTHERS WHO
HAVE HAD THE PLEASER OF HEARING HER MUSIC THROUGH THE UP'S AND DOWN'S
OF LIFE.FROM HER FIRST ALBUM TO HER CURRANT RELEASE JULIA NEVER FAIL'S
TO WRITE A SONG THAT HITS THE MARK WHICH MAKES YOU FEEL AS IF SHE HAS
WRITTEN IT JUST FOR YOU. JULIA MANY THANKS FOR THE MUSIC.
DEAN
CAMBRIDGE,UK
There's just something about Julia's voice and songs that connects with
people on a personal level. She has one of the most beautiful and
unique voices in music and she combines it with great British wit and
flair. She's simply enchanting... seeing her in concert is like
spending the evening with a dear friend and sharing the best moments in
life. I look forward to her next production.
Stephen Cieslukowski
Elk River, MN
We love to remember a show at Largo where Julia told the story of her
touring days with Grant Mitchell. She had her audience laughing out
loud while she waved her hands like a cheerleader as she explained how
the song "More Than I Can Bear" came about. As we were still laughing
to ourselves, Julia proceeded to relive the moment of that song.
Emotion, passion, pain, and immense beauty poured out of Julia while
she sang. The audience was numb, at least we were, and "More Than I Can
Bear" will always be added to the long list of treasured Fordham
moments.
Fans forever since 1988 Trace and Jen
San Diego, CA
Julia Fordham's music has escorted me through awkward teen years,
awkward grown-up years, broken hearts, blissed-out love, and every
experience in between, giving meaning to life's topsy-turvy. To borrow
loosely from Nietzsche, "Without Julia and her music, life (and love)
would be a mistake."
Jonathan Gibson
Montgomery, AL
In my six years of working at the Sundance Film Festival, I never once
got excited about any of the high profile movie stars and celebrities I
met. That is until Julia came to Park City in January 2001 to perform
in the Sundance Acoustic Music Café. I was reduced to instant starstruck jelly at the thought of meeting my favorite diva who I had
always adored since high school in the 80's. Her performance in the
room that day was at an all time high (and I'm not just talking about
the altitude.) My experience at Sundance had reached its peak when I
escorted Julia and her band into a sold-out film screening and sat her
down in the V.I.P section -- right next to Nicole Kidman. As I watched
the two beautiful blondes interact, I thought to myself...I'd take
Julia over Nicole any day.
Derek Horne
Orange, California
I've been a fan of Julia since "Happy Ever After".
I am Japanese and been living in London since 1979.
I just love her voice so much, her lyrics touch my heart, and of course
her music is always beautiful.
Julia's music always helps me to get on with life, especially when I'm
down.
It's always been important to me and always will.
Keiko Egawa.(Miss)
London, UK.
Julia's music has been a part of my life for 17 years, starting with
the very first album. The music and concerts are consistently
brilliant. Thank your or being part of the soundtrack to my life, and
for the amazing instrument that is your unmistakable voice.
Collin Kelley
Atlanta, GA
"It is hard to put into words the high I feel when Julia calls me
onstage to sing with her...what a gracious, incredibly talented
woman...the moment and memory stays with me as do her words and music."
Tina Angotti
Phoenix, AZ
"I first met Julia working on a Muppet shoot shortly after her first
album. She was enchanting and right at home singing and acting with
them. Since then I have become a shameless groupie. Her creativity and
music never fails to feed my soul. Thank you Julia, for every single
note, past, present and future.
Mike Quinn
San Francisco, CA
I first saw Julia Fordham live at the Gypsy Tea Room in Dallas, TX when
she was promoting Concrete Love. At that time, I was a bald chick in
the midst of chemotherapy treatments for breast cancer. When Julia sang
the tribute to Minnie Ripperton - Roadside Hero, I could not contain my
tears and it made me realize how short life is and how wonderful it is
to enjoy the simple things in life - like sitting and listening to a
talented and funny performer. After the show Julia was very gracious
and supportive when we spoke to her at the CD signing.
One year later, I brought my girlfriends with me to see her once again
at the Gypsy Tea Room. In that year, I lost my mom to cancer and saw my
sister go through a second round of breast cancer treatments. I gave
Julia Lance Armstrong's Livestrong yellow bracelet for Cancer
Survivorship at that show and she wore it - even though it's this tacky
yellow piece of rubber. When I think of Julia Fordham, I think of the
simple beauty of this world - that a song or a melody or a person can
lift us!
Julia - you rock! Peace out.
Terri Swain
Colleyville, TX
I am so thankful that I happened into a small club where Julia was
playing at the Smooth Jazz Festival in San Diego a few years ago. I
found there the most beautiful, melodic, mood-altering, life-changing
music I've encountered since Chris Isaak came on the scene many years
ago. I couldn't wait for Concrete Love to be released and played it
incessantly for months after I bought it. I love the entire CD and
still play it often. It's my mood elevator of choice and it does it
for me every time. I await her new CD anxiously.
A fan for life,
Beverly Bergman
I think that Julia Fordham is very good. I like her songs much better
than the songs I learn at kindergarten. I like to sing "missing man",
"Butterfly" and "Jump". I like her very much.
Peter Scherer
Los Angeles, CA
My mom is a biggest fan of Julia Fordham. Her music is everywhere
around us.
I have been listening her everyday for 12 years of my entire life. I
wake up with her songs, sing along with her on the way to (and from)
school in the car and go to bed with her songs. Her music makes us
happy. I love to see my mom looking happy listening to Julia.
And last summer,finally, I met Julia in person and greeted her for the
first time. She knew my name and talked to me so kind. It was very
exciting moment for both my mom and me. (My mom has been longing for
seeing her gig since she was pregnant with me!)
My mom bought me and my young brother a Julia's CD. Our own CD of
Julia.
She will see us, our family often at her gig from now on.
Paul Scherer
Los Angeles, CA
It was '88, I was a freshman at university in Tokyo when I first
listened Julia.
Since the moment, Julia has never left my life. I managed to go see
almost all her gigs everytime she visited Japan. Every night, I went to
listen her. She was amazing. Soon after, I left my country in '93 and
have lived in several countries, which has not been so easy.
I traveled with Julia's music everywhere. Her music has filled my house
with comfort, encouragement, compassion, peace and LOVE.
Last summer in 2004, I saw her gig at HOB in LA after more than 12
years, she was even more radiant. And she was as sweet and considerate
as ever.
And now, a marriage and two children later, I am going to start the
second act of my life. And Julia will be always there to fill my heart
with her incredible art of music. Because her music is the voice of my
life. It always has been and it will be! Thank you Julia, and I love
you.
Motoe Scherer
Fukuoka, Japan (currently residing in Los Angeles, CA)
julia's singing and songwriting is an inspiration and bring
colour,music ,and spirit to my life,everyday.
ludovic.
aix-en-provence.france.
As the years roll on, Ms Fordham's musical heights seem to have no end,
with each release surpassing the next.
The US should give thanks, in having the UKs finest now on their door
steps.
Come home Julia, soon (a gig or two will do just fine).
Darren Read (long standing supporter of 16 years)
London, UK
Julia is an engaging, powerful performer--a soothing voice with an
astounding range. She is charming, witty and soulful. I saw her in
Asia, enjoyed her in America, and would watch her again anywhere else
she performs.
Rita Nazereno
West Hollywood, CA
Hi there Julia
Just received your request for information for you new album, looks
good hon. Just thought i'd add my lil bits of information for your
perusal, lol. I've included a copy of the letter you sent to me when i
was in hospital getting my hip replacement. If you remember you phoned
me up but i was sleeping in bed, and the nurse wouldnt wake me up, I
fell out with her for 2 days after that because of it, lol. Hope the
new album goes well and look forward to hearing it, of course its about
time you did a tour of scotland, you still have a few old fans, here, (
well less of the old ha, ha)
Hope you can see the scan of the letter here, its a bit faded now,
probly been on the wall too long. I'll see if i can find any other
stuff and send em, searching under the bed at the moment lol
Take Care
All the Best
Bob Snell
I was on holiday in Spain, cycling high along a mountain pass,
surrounded by incredible scenery with eagles soaring on the thermals
all across the valley. I thought this is what life is for, these
beautiful simple moments.
As Julia sang yet another beautiful song, with her incredible range and
purity in her voice, it showed me the magic of listening to music live.
Nothing else can be created in an instant but leave you with memories
of a lifetime
Glyn Harper
East Sussex, United Kingdom
Thank you Julia! Your songs are always brilliant!
YASUHIKO
TOKYO,JAPAN
"Julia's brother joining her on stage for 'Where Does The Time Go' at
The Subterannia in London 2002......and then meeting him for a drink at
the bar, apres show!!"
Tony & Kerry
Reading, UK
You can use my Julia stories if you want. You can find them at:
http://members.tripod.com/gwagener/julia.html
Gregg Wagener
I realize this is 3 days later than the deadline---but wanted to send
it anyway for nothing other than if Julia is reading and choosing the
stories herself then she can read my story...even if it doesn't get
picked to be in the booklet (boohoo!). I've let it out and shared!
Hitching a ride with the cutest guy in my high school to meet our other
classmates (for a team project in History urghhh), he pops in this tape
and this deep enigmatic voice seeing "Happy Ever After" fills the car.
"That's a girl singing-you know...Julia Fordham" he says. Thus began my
journey with Julia. It was 1989 and I was in Manila Philippines. I was
completely enamored, by Julia's voice, not the guy!
After college, a few years later (4 to be exact) and in a different
continent all together, I was surprised when a friend gave me tickets
to see Julia at the Birchmere in Alexandria VA, to rid me of
homesickness. It was a dream come true to see her live, in person and
hear her live!! So starstruck was I, that I could barely breath and
mouth words for her autograph at the meet and greet after the show.
I immediately signed up to become a bonafide Banana Demon (BD) and a
true one to this day. I saw her again during her East West Tour and
this time with my new found BD status I was brave enough to ask for her
for a picture. And LOG (our lovely girl) as we BDs call her, was king
enought oblige.
Well the picture never turned out. I saw her the 3rd time during "The
Collection Tour" and told her of my sad state of affairs with the
picture and ofcourse, no hesitation she said "the picture lady" we must
take one again! Thus I became known as the Pictrue Lady! However this
picture lady was cursed since again that second was mysteriously didn't
turn out or is it our elusive OLG's effect on the camera!
A long wait and the Concrete Love tour came to town again at the
Birchmere, I told her that this picture lady needs another photo op
since I am cursed. She was tired and espite a "no picture" meet and
greet policy, she told me yes we must take another snapshot. This one
truned up but musch to my dismay and utter disappointment both Julia
and I looked frumpy!!!! It's have to keepo and it will be my treasure
till the next opportunity comes along!
It did. This past Sept 21, 2004. Julia stopped by the what she fondly
calls the "Bircheremria, Alexandria, Washingtonia" area again for her
That's Life Tour. A magical concert it was! She remebered me and we
chatted like old pals (without the cup of tea though!) and that made me
love her even more! She agreed yet again for another picture-- frump
free this time--she was absolutely radiant and beautiful! And she gave
me an endearing hug!
Can you believe 10 years later, the girl merely listening to that
wonderful voice in a car in a small tropical island a different
continent all together was staning side by side with the owner of that
angelic voice Ms Julia Fordham herself and known by her as the Picture
Lady! What a wonderful journey it has been so far and I look forward to
more adventures ahead. We've come a long way Julia. Thank you for
sharing your talent and yourself with us. We love you!
Marilyn Villanueva ("The Picture Lady")
P.S. This past picture was the best one...so far!
Centreville, VA
I greatly enjoyed That’s Live at the House of Blues. I have “followed”
Julia over the last 5 or so years. From Cebu Philippines, to that
little gig in Santa Monica & in LA. That night when she did “Loving
You” I realized I was madly & deeply in love with the guy I was with
(now my boyfriend). After the show, we walked up to the parking lot
holding each other‘s hands & I was singing “Mysterious Ways” for him.
Truly its surprising when love appears over the horizon & its always a
mystery how we ever came to be! But when love sets in, no heart can
ever flee, it will just surrender sweetly…. Its beautiful how Julia
brought us that spark through her songs. She’ll be remembered fondly as
she is responsible for the "story of us". P.S. We hope to get married
next year.
Mae Cordero,
Mission Viejo, California
"I still recall vividly seeing Julia for the first time on television
in a 30-second trailer when I was 18 - they were showing Porcelain in
Concert on primetime - and since that moment I have been following the
music of this lovely English muse; and oh what music ! Fourteen years
later she is still impressing, sounding as good AND looking as good as
ever. Meeting her backstage at a concert in 2002 and watching her sing
happy birthday to me during the concert has got to be one of my
favourite memories. Part of Julia's many charity efforts for the StepUp LA Breast Cancer Foundation was to record a short birthday tune to
the highest bidder in an auction, but being the true gem she is,
she surpassed that by surprising me and my mates at her concert by
performing it live ! Jules truly rules !"
Pomp H.Wong
Singapore
I discovered Julia while she was A WOMAN OF THE 80's. WHERE DOES THE
TIME GO? Julia through song has shown me LOVE, taken me to ITALY and
been my ROADSIDE ANGEL on endless road trips. Every night of my life,
I fall asleep COCOONED in my bed, to Julia's angelic voice. She makes
me feel SAFE. The first time I met Julia, under a MANHATTAN SKYLINE, I
was SWEPT away. I have been HAPPY EVER AFTER since that day.
In a DIFFERENT TIME, DIFFERENT PLACE (Atlanta), I met Julia again. I
designed a CONCRETE LOVE tour t-shirt for her. Julia thought it was
'bloody' GENIUS and made me feel like I was WALKING ON WATER. That
afternoon, she let me STAY for a private sound-check BEHIND CLOSED
DOORS. Those minutes were MAGIC. Her voice was treating my ears like
PORCELAIN. IF I were stuck on an ISLAND or in the ANTARCTICA I would
want Julia music by my side. I CAN'T HELP MYSELF, Julia is doing
SOMETHING RIGHT. To me, she is the greatest singer on earth. With
HOPE, PRAYER AND TIME, she will sing more songs and have more records.
Julia I am WISHING YOU WELL. Thank-you for great music the touches the
soul. You make my life richer. ALLELUIA.
thanks for considering my entry.
Dr. Jeffrey Schmidt
Naples, FL
Julia has been a true breath of fresh air in this polluted world since
I first heard 'Happy Ever After'
Mark Ridgewell
Cheltenham, England
Having first seen Julia on TV AM promoting "Where does the time go?"
and liked the song, I bought the first album and absolutely loved it.
I seemed to play it continuously!
After 'Porcelain' came out, I saw she was on tour and I saw Julia for
the first time in concert in November 1989 at Hammersmith Appollo.
Having seen other artists in concert, I was taken aback how Julia can
sound even better in concert than on her cd's. To this day, not many
artists can do this. Having loved the concert so much, I decided to
try and get to meet her afterwards and I did! She came across as such
a lovely person which as everyone knows she is! After this first
concert and having met her, I went to see her twice more on that
tour.
Since then I have followed Julia with dedication. Her songs really
touch me and her voice is amazing. Each album is better than the last
one.
I have now seen her in concert 15 times and each time it is such a
wonderful experience. What also makes the concerts amazing, is the way
she takes time out after the concerts to meet her fans, however tired
she may be. She makes us all feel special and having had the honour to
meet Julia on a number of occasions, has made her music even more
important to me.
JULIA - you are an amazing person and I hope to follow you as a fan for
many years to come. Your music is very special to me and to all the
dedicated fans around the world.
Jane Tillotson
Weston Turville
Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
I found myself spending a recent Friday night alone and at loose ends.
I ended up at a music store thinking that some new music would lift my
spirits. And there was Julia's "That's Life" album, newly released! As
soon as it started playing on my car's cd player I felt better. I hear
strength, vulnerability, joy, pain, and the dignity to bear it all in
Julia's voice. And I felt much less lonely. Thanks Julia!
Colleen Cunningham
Boston, Massachusetts
I have many pictures and thankfully many memories of meeting Julia over
the years, 22nd August 1989 is one that sticks out and one I will
certainly never forget. I found out that Julia was coming to Glasgow
to do a television interview and decided to take a day off of work and
pop along to say hi. The interviewer came over and asked if I'd like
to be in the interview with Julia on television, eek!! It was a day
never to be forgotten although I still cringe when I watch the tape
back.
Kindest Regards
Allison Dinnie
Glasgow, Scotland
Like a gourmet meal Julia's vocal stylings never fail to satisfy the
soul. Experiencing her live touches your heart and soul in a way that
lingers beautifully long after she has taken her final bow.
Cheryl Ann
Santa Monica, CA
The first time I saw Julia in concert, I turned to my friend Marcia and
said "we're witnessing something very special". She replied "yes, this
is magical". After the transcendent performance we were lucky enough
to meet Julia. She was charming and lovely as I told her the story of
how I used one of her songs as the first dance at my wedding reception.
Shawn Morrissey
Fitchburg Massachusetts
Dear Julia,
I have always find your voice mesmerizing, your melodies inspiring, and
your lyrics speak to me in a personal way. For me, your music is, at
times, comforting, often uplifting, and always soothing and hauntingly
beautiful. That's Life.
Best Regards,
Kim M. Steele
West Des Moines, Iowa
Dear Julia,
I heard about your upcoming DVD at the Birchmere in Alexandria VA last
week. I remember the first time I saw you live on 5/31/1990 which
happened to be my birthday and it was the last time my first wife and I
went out together- she did it sort of like a favor to me. My good
friends Chris and Renee joined us that night and needless to say you
put on a great show. I remember Dominic Miller may have been part of
your touring band that time. In the intervening years, my second wife
Linda and I, along with Chris and Renee have seen your shows each time
and have always been treated to a great show. Your genuine connection
with your audience and modest stage presence endears you to us forever.
I am looking forward to your upcoming live DVD so that I can stop
watching your old "Porcelain" VHS tape from 1990 although at least we
were all younger then.
Your fan, Phuong Trinh, M.D.
During the Concrete Love tour, we caught Julia at a Borders in St.
Louis in the afternoon. It was wonderful. We decided to spend the rest
of the afternoon and early evening near the concert venue she was to
perform at that night. We had already spoken with her, and gotten
autographs, at Borders. Hours later, while strolling near the Duck
Room, we were in a Starbucks across the street when, who waltzed in,
lost and looking for directions? Julia and her sister! We gave them
directions to their hotel, and laughed with them. That night, while
sitting right in front, Julia asked me to reach up and adjust her
microphone stand for her. A full day of Julia Fordham! It was
unforgettable!
Once, at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, we begged Julia to
sing "Swept", though she'd never rehearsed it or done it live with that
guitarist. She graciously performed the song to absolute silence and
rapture from the audience, and was so moved herself, that by the end of
the song she was crying while singing. I've never seen a concert moment
from anyone that could ever match that beautiful and awe-inspiring
rendition.
Lowell Richardson
Hello, there.
I've been a fan of Julia Fordham since the very start of her recording
career, and would be knocked out if the following could be considered
for her Live CD booklet:
"I first saw Julia in concert after the release of her first album in
1988. The venue - Bristol Colston Hall, England. The performance staggering. I immediately realized I was listening to a unique talent,
a wonderful voice. Superb albums - awesome live performances"
Many thanks.
Kevin Roberts
Rothbury
Northumberland, England
The first time that I heard Julia Fordham, her interpretation gave me
goosebumps. "Happy Ever After" is a very powerful and emotional song.
Luis A. Del Moral
San Juan, Puerto Rico
An opinion? Julia is, quite simply, world-class. Wonderful, insightful
songs, brilliantly executed. And a really smart synthesis of UK and US
influences.
A Memory? Of "Concrete Love" being the cd of choice for many behind the
scenes at Plymouth Argyle Football Club, as they worked hard to support
the footballers win the 2003-4 English Division Two Championship.
(And among the female staff, one song in particular as they prepared
for nights out on the town!)
Peter Jones
Plymouth, Devon, England
"Julia is a songbird with rich beautiful velvety tones, a rare exotic
bird"
I first heard Julia Fordham during her "Swept" album period. Her voice
and songs blew me away and I've been a fan ever since. I always catch
her on tour and enjoy her live performances even more. Every friend
that I have introduced her music to, have become fans as well! She is a
true talent and a wonderfully sincere individual, having met here a few
times after a number of shows. She one of a kind!
Thomas Augusta
New York City, NY
I have watch Julia From the beginning. We met when we shared a gig
together, 21 years ago. I have always admired her dedication to her
craft. I remember when she was in Mari Wilson and the Wilsations, she
was trying to get her solo career going. Every afternoon no matter what
was going on or what she was in the middle of she would run home at the
same time everyday to practice her music and write songs. I watched her
grow from those days, as a backing vocalist/dancer, to become the
polished amazing performer she is today. I think those afternoon
practices paid off, don't you?
Lizzie Borden
Boston/NYC
my wife and I are so into her and her music that we just flew to
Minneapolis from our home in Chicago for one night just to see her
again even though we saw her the night before in Chicago. she even
played a song for us that I requested. being the down to earth person
she is, after the show she came out to sign some c.d.'s and not only
did we get to finally meet her she also spent a few minutes talking
with us. on top of all that I emailed her a couple of weeks ago and she
actually replied to me. we have seen her many times and we look forward
to seeing her again.
mike and flora west
mundelein,il
Julia performing at the Bloomsbury theatre in London on my birthday in
1997. My (then) boyfriend told me he fell in love with me all over
again that night as I'd introduced him to Julia's music.
Helen Blaby
Northampton, UK
Seeing Julia perform her songs, especially "Happy Ever After", live,
was a wish come true for me.
Julia, your voice is a comfort, and as soothing as a great cup of tea!
There is no better stress reliever than an evening with Julia and her
music!
With love always,
Barb P.
Becket, MASS
The first Julia Fordham record for me was the beginig of finding vocals
and creativity in a female artist who never sold out to sell tons of
records, never skipping on the things that got her here today. Your
great Julia
Patrick Pettey
Warren Michigan
I first heard Julia when she was a guest on David Letterman's show
performing "Happy Ever After". The sound of her voice was incredible. I
saw her perform here in Dallas at the Arcadia Theater and had 2nd row
seats in 1990. It was the most powerful performance I had ever seen at
the time. When she came out for the THIRD encore and started weeping
while thanking us profusely, I was genuinely touched.
I have seen her twice since then, in July of 2002 and August of 2004,
again here in Dallas at the Gypsy Tea Room. Both of these performances
were incredible, but as Sade would say, "It's never as good as the
first time."
Craig Woolheater
Dallas, TX
When I saw Julia Fordham LIVE at the PICC in Manila, Philippines, for
the first time EVER, I was in awe. The only song I knew back then was
“Invisible War” but I ended up loving all her songs. I became a FAN
that night. Plus, she sang “Invisible War” that night twice. She came
back I think, 2 or 3 times that night.
I think what separates her from a lot of singers is her humor. She has
such strong stage presence and her ability to make people laugh is just
amazing to me.
The most memorable for me is when I got a chance to finally meet her in
San Francisco a few years ago. She was so friendly. She knows me as
“Mirabel”.
julia has been with us forever and especially for my daughter carly who
started liking her beautiful voice in her mothers womb. we have met her
and she fills our life with the joy of life, music and positive
emotions. thank you special angel. remember when u fill the albert hall
with ur voice singin lovin u - magical.
love ss and c shed sylvie n carly x
It is quite astounding to think that one small event could change your
life forever, yet that is what happened to us, John and Jane. We
didn't know each other when we both bought our tickets to see Julia
perform at the Birchmere in Alexandria VA on August 20th, 1997, yet 6
months later we were married. John had been traveling back and forth
between the US and England, and was planning to permanently return home
to England the following month, but that night he could only think of
how over-the-moon he was about finally seeing one of his favourite
artists perform live. This was a first for Jane as well and she too
was filled with great anticipation. Her friend was one of the
architects for the newly built venue, so she managed to reserved table
up front for her party. John sweet talked someone into letting him sit
at his table, also near the stage. As Jane sat down John advised her
that the table was reserved, and she answered, "yes I know, it is
reserved for us." John managed to move one more chair closer next to
Jane and we've hardly left each other's side since! We stayed after
the show and met Julia together. The three of us met for the first
time on the same night and how fortunate we are to have a photograph of
it. Since that fateful night we have seen Julia several times, and
always walk away in disbelief that such a huge talent is not, more or
less, than a universal household name.
Love John & Jane
Queenstown, Maryland
xx
“Julia not only has a great voice, but a great wit. I am mesmerized by
both”
Walter Rich
Atlanta, Georgia
I still remember Julia's first appearance at Royal Albert Hall (1991?).
She wandered on stage in her Porcelain pajamas, and said "I can't
believe it's me, here. Imagine that!" An unforgettable night, an
unforgettable voice.
Regards,
David Bayendor
My favorite Julia moment is when she surprised my partner Daryll on
Valentine's Day 2001 at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano by
dedicating her song "Something Right" to him. Her performance of that
song was beautiful and moved us both to tears.
James Gibson
Riverside, California
“One of the most amazing shows I’ve seen in a LONG time – her grace,
spirit and humour are truly inspiring!! This is a show not to be missed
- even a second time around! Can’t wait for the DVD!”
Lara Schuler
West Hollywood, CA
The first time I ever heard and saw Julia was back in 1989 on VH1 back when VH1 played videos and had music specials. The special was
promoting the Porcelain album. From the moment I saw the gorgeous
video for Lock and Key, I was hooked! In addition, not only was Julia
incredibly forthcoming, honest and funny, her music and voice was full
of such passion and indescribable beauty, that I ran out the next
morning to Tower Records and bought the album. I've been a fan ever
since. Did I happen to mention . . . that Julia ROCKS!
GeneM288@aol.com
Let me give you two memories, one Julia specific and one general
I was on holiday in Spain, cycling high along a mountain pass,
surrounded by incredible scenery with eagles soaring on the thermals
all across the valley. I thought this is what life is for, these
beautiful simple moments.
As Julia sang yet another beautiful song, with her incredible range and
purity in her voice, it showed me the magic of listening to music live.
Nothing else can be created in an instant but leave you with memories
of a lifetime
Glyn Harper
East Sussex, United Kingdom
Anyone can see and
vocal style enable
so that you "feel"
continues to share
Michael Pelaia
Atlanta, Georgia
hear a live performance. Julia's lyrics and her
her to connect with her audience on another level,
her music as well. Her voice is a gift that she
with her fans.
I’ve seen Julia play both New York and Philadelphia on each of her last
four times through. I’ve seen her with full band, and I’ve seen her
acoustic with just a guitarist. Her vocal talent is so strong that she
carries every song regardless of the backup. Her songwriting is
superb. She has created a body of work that has the power to enrich the
lives of everyone who listens. The production by Larry Klein has helped
her last two albums achieve perfection. That’s Live documents an
amazing artist at the absolute top of her game. Thank you for it all.
Cheers.
William Kates
Buckingham, PA
It's one thing to see Julia perform live; it's another altogether to
have her hand you the microphone so you can propose to your fiancee.
Which is what I did at Julia's Boston show. Because my fiancee's ring
is engraved "I must have done something right to be here loving you,"
it only seemed proper to give it to her during the show. And Julia came
through for me, honoring an e-mail request to perform "Something Right"
for us. She did, and also added a beautiful rendition of "Happy Ever
After" to help make the evening a perfect memory.
John Shanahan
Quincy, MA
I've been hooked on Julia since a friend tossed a cassette of "Swept"
my way and said, "Listen to this. You might like it."
I never miss a
performance by her at the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA.
Jack Blaylock
Alexandria, VA
I have followed the magnificent sounds of Julia Fordham since her first
release of Happy Ever After. Her music is poetry, the realities of
love, passion and life performed to tremendously breathe taking jazz.
I attend various concerts from New York to Houston, San Francisco to
Boston and Chicago to Portland to watch her performance rendition of
her music live. Her vocals embody the soul, (a reminder that life is
wondrous and mystical).
Rhoda McKenzie
The first time I saw Julia in concert, I was expecting to see a pretty
English girl with an exquisitely beautiful voice, but one who was
likely to be shy, reserved -- possibly even a bit stuffy -- onstage.
Could not have been more right about the first half of the equation,
nor more wrong about the second. Her sense of humor can put many a
stand-up comedian to shame.
David Baker
Atlanta, Georgia
A couple of comments: It's tough to describe in words exactly all the
feeling and emotions that Julia's music can evoke in her audience in
her songs, but she manages to do it quite well. And I'm always amazed
that she can remember all of her fans. I'm constantly amazed that each
time I see her after a show that she remembers who I am. Truly a
remarkable artist who's music has stood the test of time in being of a
consistently high quality.
Eric Kwang
Palo Alto, CA
To whom it may concern for That's Live,
Earlier this year 2004 I emailed Julia about the domestic partnership
ceremony in 2002 where Julia surprised the 200 or so same-sex couples
participating in the ceremony, including my partner John and me, by
singing Something Right from her then new album, Concrete Love.
Julia's response, and the original email, are below.
Suffice it to say that Julia is now forever a part of our lives,
and the song, Something Right, is "our song".
Thank you, Julia, for your warmth and your love - and, of course, your
beautiful music.
With love,
Jim McBride & John Williams
way way back in the late '80s a pal and I went to see Transvision
Vamp live in Leicester, England. That gig was sold out and the only
other show in town that night was a Londonbeat gig with a certain
Julia Fordham on the bill - at the Uni. I knew the student union
chap and so blagged us in for free. I'd heard Happy Ever After and
liked it, so I thought I'd check Julia out. I was literally nailed to
the spot and spent her show near to tears, with my mouth open in
astonishment. I loved her voice, the tone of the songs and the
melodies. To this day, that remains one of my favourite live
experiences. I've since seen Julia all over England and California,
where she and I live (that's coincidence - I'm not a stalker). She's
lovely and her songs really do tug at the heartstrings and hit home.
Kev Lewin
Being almost as old as Jules, I first saw her play Manchester
University in about 1983 when she was a backing singer for Mari Wilson.
I was itching to sidle up to her in the bar later and offer her a
drink...or my heart...or something like that, but courage failed me.
Back home in London I saw several Julia gigs - most notably a great
show at the Riverside Studios when the first solo album came out.
Vinyl gave way to tapes to CDs - and now the DVD. While the woman of
the 80s may now be a California girl, this 40 year old geezer back in
Blighty is glad to be able to see such a great voice in action once
again.
Mark Shanahan
Princes Risborough
Buckinghamshire, England
" A voice to DREAM to. I remember playing Genius with Julia in NYC at
Joe's Pub. We had never rehearsed it. One of my greatest stage moments
ever. thanx Julia!"
Alex-Alexander.com
New York, NY
Your song is my life itself.
Even if it is where at any times.
Also the former and future.
From Taku'tulip'
Tokyo, Japan
She brings a rare window on life - a real uncaged bird! Let her sing.
Mark Wales
Our Julia Fordham memory is from the show at the Fez in NYC about 7
years ago:
We had the opportunity to meet and take pictures with Julia after the
show, and we told her that "Love Moves (in Mysterious Ways)" had been
our wedding song in July 1994. The band that played at our reception
was so impressed that the song was added to their standard set list and
they became instant fans!
Chris & Kerry DeBenedictis
Branford, CT
Our most incredible Julia concert memory was in July of 2002 at the Tin
Angel in Philadelphia...my partner Paula and myself drove from Northern
Virginia to Philly to see Julia's show (we had been unable to attend
the local Birchmere show due to a scheduling conflict.)
Julia's show was incredible and we were lucky to have seats against the
wall very close to the stage. We had befriended a couple of gals in
the audience whom we had chatted with prior to the show and inbetween
the opening act and Julia's show. Throughout the concert we sang along
and finger clicked our way through the songs....Julia referred to us as
the "Philly Clickers" and had the 4 of us come up and accompany her
throughout "Manhattan Skyline" along with a very gifted sax player whom
Julia had met earlier that day at a book shop signing. Afterwards we
hugged and stayed for the meet and greet. It was without question the
biggest highlight of my concert going life!!! It was absolute
heaven...something we speak of and recount to friends
frequently....thank you Julia, for your music...it has touched my life
in such varying ways and through so many personal emotional
milestones....thank you for it all.....
We can't wait for the DVD and are looking forward to the opportunity to
pre-order as soon as we're able!
Warm regards,
Michele McQuay & Paula De Vilbiss
1/2 of the Washington/Philly Clickers
Herndon, Virginia
That's great to hear about live album. Since 1988 I'm a big fan of
Julia when I was in Japan, but I still have no chance to see live
performance except video. And now I'm living in Germany and she lives
in USA... I'm waiting for long time... But I think I can wait more with
this new live album. Hope to see Julia very soon.
Maki
Frankfurt, Germany
During the radio promotion tour for Falling Forward in 1994, we had the
privilege to have a 1 – 2 – 1 with Julia after a PA at Signal Radio in
Stoke on Trent. She was very friendly, amusing and kind, and
recognised us from a previous gig at Birmingham.
She has always had time for her fans, and regularly recognises and
acknowledges the core of ardent fans that have supported her for over
15 years.
On a lighter note, It’s always great to see Miles Bould at her gigs –
he is still as cute as when he was in the Lock & Key video !!
Our favourite albums are PORCELAIN and CONCRETE LOVE.
From Teresa & Julie from Crewe Cheshire
At my second Julia concert, 9-28-94, I was lucky enough to sit in front
of her at the show. I was mesmerized with the music and she picked up
on it. She graciously granted me a 'special request' as I was so into
all the music! Of course I was thrilled to hear her sing 'comfort of
strangers' with Grant Mitchell's keyboards!
Afterwards, when we and queued up to talk with her, I noticed a video
or film crew in the room. I thought nothing of it as though they were
supposed to be there! LOL! I was thrilled to have Julia see the
painting I did for her and sign it for me. She was so kind and
gracious, it was our first meeting and I was thrilled!
Several months later I received a call from a friend who said that
Julia had been on PBS the night before and I was in the video! I
suddenly remembered the camera crew that was there that night.
Through the TV station, I was able to track down HMS media. When Scott
heard my tale he asked' are you the girl with the painting?" I said yes
Ii was, and he said;"Oh yes, you need to see this video!"
And there it was, caught on tape for all the world to see, one of the
happiest nights of my life, Meeting Julia! I was overcome with tears of
Joy and Shock at the same time! Just Passing Through will always be
special to me as a reminder of that Magical Night!
New Year's day 1989, after breaking up with my then boyfriend the night
before, Turned on my radio and heard this sultry voice singing: "don't
ask me why, I'm running out of laughter.." and I was instantly caught
in the magic of Julia fordham.
I searched from shop to shop to no avail. Nowhere could I find this
magical music. Finally, out of sheer desperation, I entered a small
funky cd store by my house that had a very uninviting look!
When I asked the very handsome clerk at the desk if he had the cd, he
cheerfully handed it right to me and told me it was fantastic! I was
shocked and happy all at once! We talked a bit, and realized we liked
much of the same music. The conversation lasted quite a while, and I
went on my way.
I then began stopping in to this shop once or twice a week, and got to
know the young man better. He got me an import copy of "Porcelain"
which was so wonderful!
Within a year, He and I became a couple, and here we are 15 years later
celebrating with Julia as her sincere fans and more, as Pattie Nolan &
John Kowalski!!
Thanks Julia for bringing us together!
Pattie Nolan
Chicago, IL
Shortly before the birth of our son, my wife and I went to see Julia
play at the Jazz Cafe in London as part of her 'Concrete Love' tour.
At the time my wife was 8-months pregnant, and our unborn son had taken
a particular liking to one of Julia's new tracks, "Missing Man". Every
time the track was played 'bump' (later to be named Adam) began kicking
and punching, one time so hard that my wife, who was driving at the
time, had to pull the car over until he calmed down. After the gig, we
hung around in the hope of meeting Julia along with a hoard of fellow
fans. We may have been last in the queue but the wait was well worth
it. After telling Julia the "Missing Man" story, she unexpectedly bend
down and sang the chorus to our unborn son, who in turn gave the
obligatory kick in gratitude. It was a very moving and special moment
for us.
Vernon, Tanya and Adam Jenner
Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.
having been annointed "the official no. 1 fan in the philippines" by no
less that julia fordham herself, i think i'll die a happy man. she's
simply to me the most important singer-songwriter to have emerge in
this lifetime. to say that her music is the soundtrack of my life
would be a complete understatement. her work is like a fertile ground
where i plant memories that makes an enriching splendid harvest each
time. i am just blessed to have met and known julia fordham, the
artist and julia fordham, the person (and that's an entirely different
story). the list of memories will take up too much space, needless to
say: higlights would include her first manila concert in 1994 where she
sang an impromptu "loving you" *dedicated to me --in exchange for the
gift i gave her! he he* then meeting her and her lovely dad afterwards.
then to a *teary* reunion in 1999 in her second visit then meeting her
sister claire. fast forward nine months later, i proudly joined the
circle of "manhattan skyline" backing vox! and to top it all, i think
my "julia" tattoo (etched from her own signature) remains one
of the best decisions i've ever made in my life.
there's nothing like a "julia" always behind you.
oDILoN JoSE LUCIANo
angeles city, philippines/
dubai, united arab emirates
From the very first time I heard your luscious voice streaming across
my radio I knew we would be happily everafter. I remember thinking,
"How could you possibly perform 'acoustically' any of the music I had
witnessed on your Cream-Colored-Tailored-Suit Tour when you played with
a full band?" And afterwards, completely blown away by experiencing
your voice so intimately, I again was Storybook happy! I walked away
with a new appreciation for not only that luscious range of octaves,
but you personalized each song in such a way I couldn't help but feel
you wrote each song for me! It was the fifth time I saw you live in
that steamy 'seam-ripping' over crowded Starbucks that you finalized
the deal. Once more I witnessed how you wowed the crowd, but this time
there was more. You shook hands with every waiting fan, took pictures
with the coffee staff and yes even kissed babies. And then you smiled
me over to your autograph table where I could only kneel at your feet
and became for the next 45 minutes not just a fan, but a friend. It
was all like a dream looking up at you, yet comfortable enough for me
to say, "My God Girl, now I know why you're such a fucking-silly-thing
on stage, you're exhausted!" We howled...You are the hardest working
artist I've ever seen and yet so friendly, so smart and so funny.
Thank you for spoiling me that afternoon and staying connected with
each new cd. Love, Michael
Michael VonTanner
Portland, Oregon
Hairs standing on the back of my neck... Shivers down my spine... all
she did was walk on stage! More than 10 years ago, now. The Glasgow
Royal Concert Hall, the only time I've managed to hear that sweet
crystal clear voice live. Come back to Glasgow, Julia. After all,
that's pretty much where your journey began.
Danny McCabe
that's live and that's true:
my moment with julia mas magic, we've meet at Joe's Pub, july 10, 2002
and i go on dreaming of that moment. She is so unusual and close to the
public when she performs that made me felt a part of her music world.
Amaizing artist and lovely person.
From Ana Paula Correia
Portugal
Its been an unforgetable experience to witness my
favorite singer live in concert in house of blues and
in the coach house. I hope to hear more albums and i
will not stop listening to them, and more concerts in
los angeles.
Joy Maglantay
Hi there,
Fantastic! Just what we have wanted for ages - Julia 'Live' and some of
the superb videos that just don't seem to get airplay.
I was fortunate to see Julia when she played the Jazz Cafe Camden and
again at the Village Dublin last year and after so long a wait was
still blown away by her down to earth relationship with the audience
and her ever-improving depth of song.
My memory however is thus;
In 1983 I had been working in a little independent record store in the
centre of England when one day we played a new 7" that came in as a new
release. It was a slightly electronic track 'Friends' by an artist
called 'Jules' - do ask her if she remembers this! - anyway I was blown
away by the voice and although it didn't do well here, I bought the
record, played it to death and actually still have it today. Sometime
later when I was at university, I heard on the radio this unmistakable
voice singing 'Happy Ever After' and knew it had to be the same person.
Frustratingly the DJ never announced the name so it took me a while
until I found the eponymous album. From then on I have been hooked and
have slavishly bought the albums and visited the tours wherever I knew
Julia was playing close to home.
The singer and without doubt the mistress of the song.
Good luck Julia, we follow you from afar but thankfully you say in your
songs what we experience in our hearts and lives.
Adrian Hanstock
London, UK
I met Julia twice in one week when she played concerts in Bristol and
Birmingham in England in May 1994 (the Falling Forward tour). On the
Tuesday evening in Bristol, she spotted me in the second row of the
audience wearing my t-shirt from the Porcelain tour - "ooh look someone's been before! Bless her little cotton socks!" said Julia
proudly... Afterwards, my friend Lynne and I hung around the stage
door in the hope of meeting her - and she saw me and said "it's you! I
saw the t-shirt! Well, I saw the picture of the coat on your breast" then we joked about this and she signed one of the tour postcards with
"To Angela - I saw your bristol at Bristol! - Julia Fordham". I still
have it. On Friday that week, I saw her show at the Birmingham
Symphony Hall - and queued up again afterwards - and she remembered me.
"It's the Bristol girl!" she said, winked and smiled, and posed for a
photo with me.
OK. So it may not be much of a story for some people, but to me, it
felt great to have been spotted for wearing the t-shirt, great to be
remembered a few days later, and FANTASTIC to have had the opportunity
to meet Julia.
Angela Garry, Newcastle West, County Limerick, Republic of Ireland.
Formerly of Exeter, Devon, England