November 14, 2007. ROCHESTER, NY. The current JazzWeek Radio Charts, which monitor the most-played records in America, contain a history-making first for Filipinos. Vocalist Charmaine Clamor, the creator of jazzipino, is ranked in the Top-5 on two charts simultaneously. Her new album, "Flippin' Out," which combines American jazz with traditional Filipino kundiman and harana, is also among the Top-5 sellers on Amazon.com in the Vocal Jazz category.
Ms. Clamor, originally from Subic-Zambales and now residing in Los Angeles, California, is #2 on the JazzWeek World Music chart and #4 on the Traditional Jazz chart. This rare feat, seldom accomplished by any artist, and never before by a Filipino, comes on the heels of Clamor's appearance on NPR's "Weekend Edition," where she was interviewed by host Liane Hansen. The interview is archived at NPR Music: Charmaine Clamor's 'Jazzipino' Swing .
"More than anything, I'm thrilled that the music of my people is being heard all around America," said Ms. Clamor. "Filipino songs that my friends and family have loved forever are now being discovered by millions of listeners around America and the world. I can hardly believe that the Tagalog and Bisayan languages are being celebrated on American airwaves!"
Clamor's "Flippin' Out" CD has been commended by national critics for breaking new musical ground, introducing the culture of the Philippines to mainstream listeners. The album has already been hailed as "a classic" and "a tour de force," and the smash radio hit, "My Funny Brown Pinay," a reworking of "My Funny Valentine" with Tagalog lyrics, is among the most played songs on jazz radio.
For her contributions to raising awareness of Filipino culture, the Filipino Women's Network recently named Charmaine Clamor one of the 100 Most Influential Filipino Women in the United States.
Ms. Clamor regularly headlines the top jazz clubs in America, including Hollywood, California's Catalina Bar & Grill Jazz Club, where she will participate in the 3rd Annual Filipino-American JazzFest, Presented by ABS-CBN Global on December 7-9. Information on Clamor's tour schedule and the top-ranked "Flippin' Out" can be found at her official Website: www.CharmaineClamor.com .