Album Notes

Ruby Chew's passion for music started early. She grew up singing along to her family's records and listening to the beautiful sounds of Aretha Franklin, Lesley Gore, Diana Ross on television during Ed Sullivan and American Bandstand just to name a few. She was also influenced by other up and coming artist as well. She continued to sing as she made her way through school, but less and less as everyday concerns eclipsed her passion.

Originally from Beloit, WI, Ruby went to school for Education and ultimately ended up in Madison, WI. Throughout her life music has been there, a vivid background coming to the fore now and again as she performed for school or local functions.

During a discussion with a friend she learned about the opportunities that the internet was starting to provide artists who had never pursued professional careers, but whose talent begged to be heard. Her voice has led her here, to offer her first CD, “A Simple Gift,” a collection of well-known and seldom-heard spirituals.

Ruby’s rich, full, gospel- and pop-infused tone, coupled with her love of these pieces and a style clearly inspired by her musical influences, displays this talented vocalist’s natural gifts. This CD makes for a listening experience that is moving and satisfying on multiple levels.

All vocals are performed by Ruby Chew

Vocal Coach – Marilyn Fisher

Anthony Cao, co-arranged pianist, with the help of other studio musicians, such as, Tom McGirr on upright bass.

Additional instrumentation – Jay Lechler
Cover Photograph by Angela Kidwell

Recorded and mixed by Bill Maynard and mastered by Jake Johnson at Paradyme Productions- Recording Studio, Madison, WI.