Tatiana Eva-Marie Brings Django Reinhardt's Music to Life with Djangology

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief

Tatiana Eva-Marie, often hailed as a modern "songbird," is redefining the scope of jazz with her latest project, Djangology. This album is a heartfelt tribute to Django Reinhardt, the pioneering Gypsy jazz guitarist and composer whose influence resonates deeply within jazz history. However, Tatiana doesn't merely emulate the iconic instrumental style Reinhardt is known for; she breathes new life into his compositions by crafting original lyrics and arrangements. Her approach bridges eras and languages, offering audiences a fresh perspective on the timeless essence of Django’s music.

Tatiana’s connection to jazz and Gypsy culture runs deep. Born into a family immersed in the arts, she grew up surrounded by music, from her father’s vast vinyl collection to the theater projects she collaborated on with her mother. “I basically came out of the womb singing,” Tatiana said during an interview, recalling how music was always central to her life. This intimate relationship with her craft has shaped her as an artist who, in her words, sees music as more than a profession—it’s an extension of her identity.

With Djangology, Tatiana’s aim is personal yet universal. “I grew up in jazz manouche circles, which are dominated by swarms of guitarists—it’s not always easy to fit in as a singer!” she shared. This challenge pushed her to reinterpret Reinhardt’s music in a way that reflects her journey and artistry. Her lyrics, spanning English, French, Romanian, and Rromanes (the Gypsy language), weave stories of her heritage and experiences. The album narrates her life’s odyssey—from the bohemian streets of Paris to the sophisticated jazz salons of New York City.

The creative process for Djangology was both challenging and transformative. Tatiana approached Reinhardt’s instrumentals as if they were modern standards. “I imagined Django Reinhardt wrote all his music for me to sing, as if he were an Irving Berlin or Cole Porter,” she explained. This reinterpretation required her to manipulate melodies designed for guitar into singable formats. Songs that initially seemed unsuitable for vocals were transformed into ballads or given entirely new rhythmic identities, such as bossa nova. She laughingly admitted, “I joke around that I destroyed Django’s music to make it singable.”

One standout track, Sweet Chorus, exemplifies Tatiana’s playful creativity. Originally an instrumental piece, she added an entirely new verse, drawing inspiration from her own late-night experiences. The lyrics depict a scene of two friends, tipsy on champagne, attempting to remember lyrics from the Great American Songbook. This lighthearted moment captures the album’s blend of sophistication and humor, resonating with listeners on both emotional and nostalgic levels.

Tatiana’s reinterpretation of Django’s work is not confined to the music alone. She also took the reins on the album’s visual concept. The album cover, a collage of ancestral Gypsy dress fabrics, holds deep significance. “The bits of fabric I used are photos of my ancestors’ Gypsy dresses from my family’s village in Romania. They are over a century old and still strong and beautiful,” she explained. For Tatiana, this tactile connection to her roots mirrors Django Reinhardt’s music—an enduring art form that evolves with each interpretation yet retains its original soul.

Beyond Djangology, Tatiana’s artistic endeavors extend across multiple disciplines. Known for her work with the Avalon Jazz Band, her influence has positioned her as an ambassador of 1930s French swing. She has starred in films, written opera librettos, and launched Shrine Magazine, an online publication dedicated to arts and culture. Despite her myriad projects, jazz remains the heartbeat of her work. Tatiana is committed to making music that, as she puts it, “brings back the human element” and allows audiences to escape into moments of joy and connection.

Tatiana’s live performances are equally transformative. Her shows channel the energy of Parisian cabarets while infusing them with a contemporary flair. “I want to make music for people to escape their lives a little bit, to have a drink, to steal a kiss, to get up and dance,” she said. Her deep respect for tradition, combined with her modern sensibilities, creates an experience that is as enlightening as it is entertaining.

The release of Djangology isn’t just a milestone in Tatiana’s career; it’s a cultural statement. In an era where pop music often veers toward the ironic or detached, her work reminds us of the emotional and communal power of music. By revisiting and reinterpreting Django Reinhardt’s legacy, Tatiana not only honors the past but also ensures its vitality for future generations.

For fans of jazz, or anyone seeking an authentic musical journey, Djangology is available now on major streaming platforms. As Tatiana tours globally, audiences have the opportunity to witness her talent firsthand, where her artistry truly comes alive. Whether she’s performing in a cozy jazz club in New York City or on a grand stage in Europe, Tatiana Eva-Marie remains a beacon of creativity, seamlessly blending the old and new in a way that feels timeless.

Through Djangology, Tatiana invites us into her world—a place where history, innovation, and emotion converge. And as we listen, we’re reminded of the enduring magic of music and the power of an artist who dares to dream beyond the expected.