I just had had to do a music review on the woman that gave birth to me. Yes this is my mom, and she can sing like an angel. My mom “Debby Yeager” has been in the music industry my whole life. I am kinda proud to say that I grew up a garage band kid. Even though at times I think I got lost in between the loud speakers. She even took me out on tour with her to Japan; an expierence I will never forget. Being around musicians my whole life really made me appreciate all types of music and appreciate the crazy creative people that make it …

My mother, Debby Yeager started her own record label in 1996, did her own distribution, and climbed the charts as an indie artist with her first CD, “Mood Swing”. Around this time is when her repressed memories of childhood abuse surfaced. I won’t get into that too much but you can read the article about it in the LA times below. This CD is soooooo good; even if you are not a Jazz fan you will love it. I am not just saying this because she is my mother. My favorites on the CD are, “My Little Boat”, “Senor Blues”, “Summer Dreams”, “Reza”, and “Chances Are”. She mixes Bebop, Blues, and Brazilian; she even does a duet with the legendary Bob Dorough. Now if you don’t know who Bob is, remember growing up watching School House Rock? Early 80’s people, I sure do! Bob did all the music for School House Rock.

There are no studio tricks, or over producing either; she can sing live and really knock your socks off. Debby used to be a regular performer at the Ritz Carlton and tells a story of John Travolta getting up and dancing to “My Little Boat” then asking for the CD afterwards. I have seen her perform live many times. When I reached my early 20’s, it became a regular Friday night thing for me, going to the jazz club sipping on a drink, and just being under her vocal spell. She does “Reza” completely in protégées; a wonderful samba love chant. We went to Vegas to see her at the infamous “Blue Note” that is no longer there, but it was a great performance as usual.

My mom Debby also teaches vocal lessons and is currently wrapping up CD number two. I got to spend some time in the studio with her on this CD, and I am looking forward to its release.

I know the struggle the indie artists go through and the complications with major record labels and all the politics involved. Just know that it is possible to follow through with your own indie label. It will take a lot of hard work, passion, and dedication to make it, but you can do it. Once you put yourself out there and release yourself please know that the major labels will no longer touch you. Something to think about, but screw the major labels, freedom of an artist is doing what you are passionate about and doing it your way. I love you mom for having the courage to keep doing what you love. It is such a motivation to me to never give up on my passion or doing things my way.

From the LA Times article: Now a certified mediation and conflict resolution counselor, she filed a sexual abuse lawsuit in civil court against her father. Last month she was awarded a $2-million judgment by Orange County Superior Court Commissioner Jane Myers.

(FYI my Grandfather passed away and he did not have 2 million dollars, this award was just that, writing on a piece of paper for the emotional and physical damages)

MYSPACE: http://www.myspace.com/debbyyeager
EMAIL: debbyyeager@gmail.com
WEBSITE: www.DebbyYeager.com
CD Baby: http://cdbaby.com/cd/debbyyeager
Other articles to check out: Johnny Jazz, Los Angeles Times