Dianne Reeves to Sow Hope & Happiness in Holiday Concert at Macky Auditorium

In the midst of natural disasters, political polarization and negative news headlines, everyone could use a positive pick-me-up every now and then. Singer Dianne Reeves is happy to help.

"At its essence," says Reeves, "life is beautiful, and I want to celebrate that which is too often overlooked."

For years, the jazz vocalist has been committed to using her gift for good, spreading hope, love and joy far and wide. Judging by the fan messages she receives, it's working: "What food for the soul you provide," says one. "Thank you for lifting our spirits," says another. "Your voice continues to soar to the most special of places," a third rhapsodizes.

This December, Reeves, widely considered the world's greatest living jazz and R&B singer, comes to Macky Auditorium for a concert of seasonal favorites and more.

Reeves, who briefly studied music at CU Boulder and started her career touring with jazz, rock and pop greats, has been on the scene for more than 30 years. She's won five Grammys. None other than Wynton Marsalis has said hers is "one of the most powerful, purposeful and accurate voices of this or any time." Clearly, she needs no introduction.

But even if you haven't heard her name before, you've probably heard her voice. She sang on the film soundtrack for "Good Night, and Good Luck;" she's recorded and performed extensively with the most prestigious symphonies and conductors; she's sung at the White House numerous times; and she's toured the world with musicians from countless genres and countries.

In short, she's seemingly been everywhere and sung everything. But what's most extraordinary is that her ubiquity hasn't changed her: In concert, she's still the same inspiring ray of sunshine her fans love and crave.

"Warmth, diamond-like precision and generosity, in her music and in her approach to the world at large, make her the sort of artist that is a delight to hang out with," says the Huffington Post. "She can sing up and down the scales, interpret any song in a style that will stun you and still keep it real. What makes Dianne Reeves so mesmeric is the humility that underscores the mastery."

CU Presents offers the best in performing arts on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, including the Artist Series, the College of Music, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, the Eklund Opera Program, the Holiday Festival, the Takács Quartet Chamber and Encore Series and CU Theatre & Dance. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @cupresents.

IF YOU GO:

Dianne Reeves
Saturday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.
At Macky Auditorium
Cost: $20 and up
Tickets: Visit the CU Presents box office in person (972 Broadway), call 303-492-8008 during business hours or visit us online anytime.