Who is the World's Best 'New' Female Vocalist


It has to be Renee Olstead--she's remarkable, with talents that literally dwarf other female artists. Before you think of who is better, let me explain.
For me, it's about the voice first...I have to love the texture, totally personal here...a love it hate it kind of thing. For example, for many years including this one, I've felt that Karen Carpenter had about the most beautiful voice, I suppose, just in terms of texture, that I'd ever heard. Perfect pitch, (without pitch correction I believe) beautiful pronunciation, diction...all the components for my taste.
What was lacking was that 'style' that special vocalization that some performers, who are musically gifted have...think Clifford Brown's trumpet versus practically everyone else. Chris Botti emulates him, but isn't quite there...excellent but not really a Clifford.
Renee, does things with her voice, a 'cry' in her voice at times, going into her 'head' voice (falsetto in males) with ease...a probably 4 octave range...SHE'S remarkable.
Buy her albums!
Her first album is remarkable, and maybe better, (more a function of what music you prefer, as she matured some in the interim).
As a frequent poster on Audiogon, I think we have a responsibility to one another to make suggestions which have helped us find the 'magic'...this girl has the magic.

Good listening.

Larry
lrsky
Albertporter: "it's not a contest". No truer words have been spoken here! Each other is the best gift that we get in this world. Music is the truest art form.
Agree and perhaps I missed the point that Katie was new to others in this forum.

I was quick to list her when I first heard her music. The reaction at that time appeared members were not all that excited about her sound. That being said, I bought all her albums and enjoy her very much.

I think staying power is a true sign of talent, an artist that is no longer new to you but still enthralls you when you listen.

Kate Bush and Fiona Apple can still get to me and they have been in my library forever.
anything with a skirt and a smile :)

Are you sure "anything with a skirt and a smile?"

I've been to Flicker and some fitting that description are not female, also suspect they sing poorly :^).