“She’s a true extrovert…even when you watch her sing, she engages you and makes you feel like you’re part of the story.”
— Terell Stafford, Jazz trumpet player
In October 2012, vocalist Chelsea Reed brought five of her friends together to play some tunes in a South Philly dining room. Her plan was to form a band that played for swing dancers, so she could finally have the chance to sing her favorite songs for an audience that loved early jazz as much as she did. Since that fateful day, she’s been living that dream and couldn’t be happier about it.
Now, Chelsea Reed and the Fair Weather Five are at home at swing dances, jazz clubs and concert halls alike. They have played renowned Philadelphia venues and travel the country year round to perform at both Lindy and Blues exchanges and workshops. They’ve had the honor of sharing the stage with trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, and he’s featured on their July 2017 release, Spreadin’ Rhythm Around. They love exploring the roots of jazz and finding creative ways to interpret forgotten songs. Drawing upon the intensity of powerhouse vocalists, the ingenuity of 20th century composers, and the soul of the dance floor, Chelsea Reed and the Fair Weather Five honor the heritage of jazz with fresh arrangements and original songs. They are silly, passionate people who love playing this music.
And that’s all there is to it.