Setting the tempo of the beginning of celebrations for the legendary hotel’s 110th anniversary on 16th December, 2013, British Blues singer-songwriter and actress Dana Gillespie enthralled guests with her eccentric performance at Starboard, The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. Laced with catchy one liners, Dana gave the motley crowd more than they ever asked for. Backed ably on piano by boogie - woogie man Joaquim Palden, the night belonged to her rightly so, even though Palden gave out some brilliant solo pieces on the piano. Dana also played the piano with Palden on a few tracks, bringing out her true musical skills of a musician. 

Known as the custodian for eclectic music, Starboard has been a platform for many talents like Free Spirit, award winning DJs like Junkie and the best of comedy talent, including Varun Thakur, Aditi Mittal, Karan Talwar, Amog Rana Dive since its inception in December 2000. In keeping with this tradition, Starboard is proud to present Dana Gillespie, who has been touring the world as an ambassador of the risqué blues captivating audience with stellar performances.

With a four decade old music career, Gillespie got guests charmed with her blues numbers, styled from the 1920s to the 40s. Infused into Starboard’s vibrant atmosphere, the portside bar echoed of the melody that welcomed a night of harmony, along with exclusive margaritas and exceptional Mexican cuisine.

Gillespie was voted 'Top British Female Blues Vocalist' by the British Blues Connection and Blueprint Magazine between 1992 and 1996 and has now been elevated into their Hall Of Fame. She also has a strong India connect on a karmic level and has recorded 3 albums in Sanskrit and several albums with Sai bhajans and songs dedicated to Swami.

It is no wonder then that Dana is regarded as the Queen of British Blues.

By Verus Ferreira