Diana Krall
Rob Bennett was a proudly independent Canadian concert promoter from Toronto, celebrated for his remarkable contributions to the music industry over a career spanning more than 35 years. His passion for live music and promotion enabled him to work with an eclectic array of artists across various genres. Bennett began his career alongside "the Bernies"—Bernie Fiedler and Bernie Finkelstein—owners of True North Records and managers of the iconic Riverboat in Yorkville. In 1978, he founded RBI Productions, a company through which he organized concerts at prestigious venues such as Convocation Hall and Massey Hall in Toronto. Over the years, he worked with acclaimed artists including James Taylor, Robin Williams, Diana Krall, Michael Bublé, and Bruce Springsteen.
I first met Rob during tours with Jesse Cook and Diana Krall at Kitchener’s Centre In The Square. It was there that I gained an appreciation for Rob’s fondness for Crocs—they’re comfortable and functional!
Diana Krall, one of the artists Rob promoted, is a celebrated Canadian jazz pianist and vocalist known for her sultry voice, masterful piano skills, and sophisticated interpretations of jazz standards. Born on November 16, 1964, in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Krall was raised in a musical family. Her father, an amateur jazz pianist, and her mother, a choir singer, inspired her early passion for music. She began playing piano at the age of four and later attended Berklee College of Music in Boston. Following her studies, she honed her craft in Los Angeles under the mentorship of jazz greats like Ray Brown and Jimmy Rowles.
Krall’s breakthrough came with her 1996 album, All for You: A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio, which garnered a Grammy nomination and broad acclaim. Her ability to breathe new life into classic standards helped her bridge the gap between jazz aficionados and mainstream audiences.
Some of her landmark albums include:
When I Look in Your Eyes (1999): A Grammy-winning record with lush orchestral arrangements and hits like "Let’s Face the Music and Dance."
The Look of Love (2001): A commercial success showcasing romantic ballads and Krall’s deep, evocative vocals.
Live in Paris (2002): A Grammy-winning live album featuring vibrant performances.
Turn Up the Quiet (2017): A return to her jazz roots with beautifully arranged standards.
Married to British rock musician Elvis Costello since 2003, Krall and Costello occasionally collaborate musically. The couple has twin sons and balances family life with their artistic endeavors.
Throughout her illustrious career, Krall has earned numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy and JUNO Awards, as well as the Order of Canada for her contributions to jazz and music. Her timeless recordings and live performances continue to captivate audiences around the world.
Krall has performed at Kitchener’s Centre In The Square on multiple occasions. Notably, she graced the venue’s stage on May 27, 2015, and November 27, 2017, during her tours. I had the privilege of marketing and photographing these unforgettable performances, which showcased her extraordinary artistry and magnetic presence.
