Born in 1966 in Heywood, Greater Manchester (England), Lisa Jane Stansfield grew up in an unpretentious household with a pronounced passion for music evident even during her early years.
When she was 14 years old, her journey changed dramatically after she appeared in and emerged victorious from the British talent competition. "Search For A Star" (This precursor to The Voice) paved the way for her initial professional engagements. She soon gained recognition and primarily began working in television, where she notably served as a host for youth programs.
Her genuine musical journey didn't start until the 1980s, at which point she launched a band together with Ian Devaney and Andy Morris called Blue Zone , seamlessly fitting within the "blue-eyed soul" genre prevalent in Northern England. Blending elements of pop with soul music, the band put out several singles; however, these did not achieve international recognition. Despite this, this period in her career remained quite significant. Lisa Stansfield To establish her personal style and build confidence in her skills.
In 1989, she put out her debut solo album, "Affection" , an album that catapulted her into international prominence. It seamlessly combined elements of soul, funk, pop, and R&B with a distinctively '80s/'90s sound. groove It was created by her companion Ian Devaney and Andy Morris , where she had previously collaborated with Blue Zone.
When talking about Lisa Stansfield , one must not ignore her global smash hit "All Around The World", Which debuted at number one in the UK, entered the top ten in numerous other countries, and earned her acclaim for her distinctive “American” soul vocals—a remarkable feat for an Englishwoman, particularly a Caucasian one. This track went on to become her vocal trademark, known for its iconic characteristics. gimmick I can't locate my child... It flawlessly represents her aesthetic: somber, sensuous, and refined.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Lisa is recognized for her low-key but genuine dedication to various initiatives, such as combating HIV/AIDS and backing independent musicians. She embodies compassion, which she conveys warmly via her artistry, remaining true to herself without any affectation.
(MH featuring Larisa Lungu - Image: © Etienne Tordoir)
Image: Lisa Stansfield performing live at Ancienne Belgique in Brussels (Belgium) on November 4, 2019