Clare Teal is an English jazz singer from Yorkshire, born in 1973 and brought up in the Kildwick area of Keighley, West Yorkshire. She develops an interest in jazz at an early age through her father’s collection of 78rpm records, and becomes strongly influenced by big band singers including Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Loss.

Early life and education

Teal takes music lessons first on electronic organ and later on clarinet. She studies music at Wolverhampton University. While at university, she turns to singing when she does not have her clarinet for an unexpected examination, and the experience leads her to realise that she enjoys performing in public.

Career

After graduating, Teal works in advertising while continuing to sing in her spare time with amateur and semi-professional bands. Her break comes when she stands in for Stacey Kent at a weekend festival in Llandrindod Wells. Using her advertising experience to promote herself, she goes on to secure a three-album deal with Candid Records. Her profile then grows through radio and television appearances, and she later signs to Sony in what is described as the biggest recording deal ever for a British jazz singer.

Recording style and notable releases

Most of Teal’s recordings are standards, although her earlier albums include original songs and some post-swing material. One notable track is her cover of The Mamas & the Papas’ “California Dreamin’”, which draws attention from BBC radio presenter Michael Parkinson and brings her significant publicity during her time with Candid. Her 2004 album Don’t Talk reaches number one in the UK Jazz Chart and number 20 in the UK Albums Chart.

Live work and broadcasting

In live performance, Teal sings with a band led by pianist and musical director Simon Wallace. She also presents the BBC Radio 2 programme Big Band Special on Monday nights.

Recognition

Teal wins British jazz vocalist of the year in 2005 and BBC jazz vocalist of the year in 2006.

Selected discography

Clare Teal releases Nice Work in 1995, Messin’ with Fire in 2000, That’s the Way It Is in 2001, Orsino’s Songs in 2002, The Road Less Travelled in 2003, Don’t Talk in 2004, Paradisi Carousel in 2007, and Get Happy in 2008.

Personal life

Teal lives in Bath with her partner and manager, Muddy Field, and Field’s son. Although she lives in the south of England, she says she still feels strongly connected to Yorkshire.