Ginette Reno Live

I had the privilege, and I truly mean privilege, to attend the concert of Ginette Reno on Thursday night. As an icon in Quebec, I have heard her name my entire life.  I would hear a song here and there and occasionally see a television performance but I never really knew much about her story or her music.  By fluke, a ticket was given to me at the last moment.

From the moment she stepped on stage, you could feel the love from the audience.  I have never felt such a respect for another artist.  Not only is she an amazing and genuine singer, I believe her exceptional aura is what makes her a star.  Someone that takes her life experiences and shares it with her public through her music. I could actually feel her pain, the sorrow, the joy and her triumphs.  I related to her stories and her experiences.    Her sense of humor and all around empathetic nature moved me.   Even with her son (who is the orchestra conductor); you could feel the relationship was one of love and admiration.  There is nothing about this woman that I didn’t admire.  There is no longer any doubt in mind as to why she is so highly regarded within Quebec.  The only shame is that it took me so long to discover such a great artist.

I want to give a big thanks to Claudia and Micheline for helping me to discover this wonderful woman.   She has left a mark on me and if ever I return to a stage, I could only hope that I would appear as real as her and sing as honestly as she did.  She is one to take example from. 

If you have a chance, don`t hesitate to get your tickets.  In case you’re not aware, the show in Quebec is 90% French (although she did an amazing rendition of ``The Way We Where``).  The concert will be playing in April and in May at the St-Denis Theatre.