Darlene Cooper is a multifaceted artist whose work is defined by a single core principle: connection. Known for a soulful, sultry voice that navigates Jazz, Soul, Gospel, and R&B with ease, Darlene treats music as an emotional journey. Whether she is leading a full band with a roaring horn section or performing an intimate jazz standard, her goal remains the same—to impact the heart and soul of her listener.

Following the intimate success of 2021’s You & I, acclaimed vocalist and educator Darlene Cooper and co-writer/arranger Bill Sample have released their most ambitious project to date: It’s All About Love.

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.