Imelda May: Burlesque Singer

With her unique fusion of rockabilly, blues and jazz, Imelda May has already made a huge impact on the live scene, performing frequently alongside Jools Holland, who’s a big fan.

The singer has now released her debut album, Love Tattoo, described as “a timeless collection of jazz-a-billy, delivered in Imelda's contemporary, direct and inimitable style”, and comes to Liverpool for an intimate live date at Live Lounge at Baby Blue, on February 11.

Dublin-born Imelda got her first break through UK boogie- woogie maestro Holland, and has also shared the stage with an impressive array of musical talent, including the late Kirsty MacColl, Alison Moyet, Dionne Warwick, Diana Ross, Van Morrison and Scissor Sisters.

Her influences of Billy Holiday, Dinah Washington and queen of rockabilly, Wanda Jackson, can be heard in her unique blend of music.

Her sassy, burlesque-inspired style and performances last year earned Imelda the nomination of Best Burlesque Singer 2007, as well as her movie debut as the singing voice in the forthcoming American gangster move, Dark Streets.

Check out Imelda May performing Johnny got a Boom Boom:

You don't just watch Imelda perform, you experience it, "She holds her audience by the scruff of the throat, reaches down and tears out your heart".

Whether it's her infectiously unique fusion of rockabilly, blues and jazz, her extensive self-penned repertoire, her sassy burlesque-inspired performances or her distinctive interpretation of classic standards, her appeal is both seductive and undeniable.

You can grab Imelda May's rocking debut album Love Tattoo online: