Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder are just a few of the noticeable names to have worked with Diane Schuur. Diane headlines the Fairmont Beijing with the sounds of soul and jazz.

Who have been your biggest musical influences? Stevie Wonder, Nancy Wilson, George Sherring, Dinah Washington, Ella Fitzgerald, to name a few.

What was your big break in the music business? The night I was called up on Stage at the Monterey, CA Jazz Festival and sang with the Ed Shaunnesy Band. Stan Getz discovered me and took me to a Special Evening of Jazz: Showcasing Four Generations of Jazz at the White House.

You've worked with some amazing legendary artists such as BB King, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder. What are some highlights of your collaborations? I would say that with each artist the memories I took away were the personal stories we were able to share with each other about our personal lives. We all have personal lives which influence our performances and the songs we sing or play. It was very special for me to share some very tender moments with each gentleman as well as to share my own experiences with them.

On the flip side, who have been some of the unsung heroes in your journey through the music industry thus far? Would-be performers who are mega-talented but do not get all the fame and fortune that goes with it? I wouldn't classify them as unsung heroes. We're all just trying to share our experience with the audience through our medium which is music. I have had the honor to perform with so many talented musicians who are giants in their own right in the industry for the music they created. Ernestine Anderson, Karrin Allyson, Freddie Cole, Abbey Lincoln, Natalie Cole, Dianne Reeves, Cassandra Wilson,Dave Koz, Monty Alexander … to name a few.

You also play the piano. What are your favorite songs to play? Will we be hearing them this trip? The Man I Love, It Don't Mean a Thing, The Land of Make Believe, Deedles Blues.

What are you looking forward to most for this trip to Beijing? Meeting new people. Having a cultural experience with music. Trying the different cuisines you have to offer. Feeling the vibe of the City.

Diane Schuur at Fairmont Beijing, February 25, 8pm, Free. Tel: 6436-8998