Valerie Giglio joined Mark and John in studio for a great conversation. Valerie is an accomplished Jazz musician who has modernized her performances and made herself into an Electric Swing Songstress. Valerie has released two CD's and is working on a new project in what one could call a miraculous second call for her career.
Valerie sang with the legendary AL Vega, her first CD release "Songbook" is a collection of her favorite standards backed by the Al Vega Trio. Her second CD release "The Italian Project" is an Italian language CD celebrating the music from the era of La Dolce Vita as well as Italian contemporary songs and Italian versions of classic American hits.
At 42 years old, Valerie was succeeding as a lawyer and flourishing as a vocalist. Her world was turned upside down when she suffered a brain stem stroke which left her paralyzed on her entire left side. Confined to a wheel chair and having to endure endless rehabilitation in order to regain control of her body, Valerie was faced with a very dark reality... she had lost her singing voice.
With fierce determination, the support of her husband Mark and family and her healthcare team Valerie overcame all hurdles. "Many amazing friends and family members stood by me during the tough times. They visited me in the hospital the week or so I was there, they came by or called or texted when I was home again. Even acquaintances became wonderful friends."
One year later Valerie took to the stage in her second act. With members of her rehab team and a reporter from the Boston Globe in the room, Valerie took to the stage at Johnny D's Uptown Restaurant and Lounge in Somerville. She was the featured singer on the bill for Chick Singer Night. In June, 2021 she released her debut Electro Swing release "Starlite Ballroom" with an upcoming album to follow.
What we learned during our interview with Valerie is that she is a determined fighter that doesn't give up! As part of her fight back she wrote a memoir, Singing In My Own Key, it details her triumph over stroke and it is a great read. She is also on the about to start appearing with a new duo project Starlight Vibes with fellow musician Samuel Cerra.
For more about Valerie, her career, story and upcoming events visit www.valeriegiglio.com.
