Darlene Cooper (formerly Ketchum) started singing solos in church at the age of 3, and later found her musical passion in the soul, gospel, funk, and jazz music of the 1970’s. The vocal freedom of soul, combined with the rich chords and funky laid-back groove, continue to inspire her songs today. For Darlene, music is about connection and she uses her soulful and sultry voice to take her listener on an emotional journey through the song. In addition to being an experienced singer, Darlene is a songwriter, arranger, choral & musical director, keyboard accompanist and educator.

Excerpt: Ketchum, an internationally-known jazz and soul singer, will bring to the stage The Soul Connections Band this Saturday. They've performed alongside the likes of Celine Dion, David Foster, Kenny Loggins, Ray Charles and Colin James, just to name a few. The band includes Bill Sample (piano), Rene Worst (bass), Randall Stoll (drums), Steve Hilliam (sax) and guest vocalist Marcus Mosely. "We really had a desire to see the arts in Delta develop," revealed Ketchum, who's been living in Delta for 24 years.

Music by Darlene Ketchum Lyrics by Linda McAllister "Soul Connections (Extended Edition)" 2014 Artist: Darlene Ketchum Producer: Roy Salmond Keys: Bill Sample Bass: Rene Worst Drums: Randall Stoll

Excerpt: With a set of powerful pipes and dynamic delivery, Darlene Ketchum kept the rhythm and blues coming at Music in the Park on Thursday August 13. From Etta James’ At Last (My Love has Come to Me) and Billy Holiday’s God Bless the Child to the Motown sound of My Guy and You are the Sunshine of my Life, to the traditional gospel Wade in the Water, Ketchum showed her range.