Malene Mortensen
@ the PizzaExpress Jazz Club
14 November 2006

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Biography

Danish born Malene Winter Mortensen comes from a musical family. Her mother, Karen Mortensen was a respected drummer and her father, Jens Winther, is a composer, arranger and trumpeter of European fame. Malene would gain valuable experience performing in her father’s groups from a young age.

Mortensen may (or may not) be remembered for her attempt at Eurovision success in 2002. Though her appearance on the Danish edition of the BBC’s Star for a Night proved fruitful. Her subsequent Eurovision entry “Vis mig hvem du er”, which she performed in English failed to impress judges.

Not deterred by her Eurovision disappointment, Mortensen continued her musical quest. 2003 would see the release of Mortensen’s debut album “Paradise”(Universal Records). This album includes contributions from three of Denmark’s finest Jazz musicians: Niels Lan Doky (piano) Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen (bass) and Alex Riel (drums).

In 2004, Mortensen signed with Scandinavia’s leading independent Jazz label, Stunt Records. “Date With A Dream”, released in 2005 contains Mortensen’s self penned compositions, as well as renditions of Billie Holiday’s “Date With A Dream” and Joni Mitchell’s “All I Want”.

Mortensen can be found performing at Stunt Record live showcases and festivals throughout Europe. At just 22, she has a great deal to learn, but also has great deal to offer. Mortensen’s repertoire is such that she could go either way. The jazz world is always waiting with critical bated breath, while the glittered doors of the pop world are always ever so inviting.

Musicians:
Malene Mortensen - vocals

Robin Francis
© Michael Valentine Studio