This funding is to go towards the cost of producing and pressing the CD of Project Deep. This album will take you on a journey that musically blends soul, jazz, reggae and gospel with a harp, a guitar, drums and a cello and many other beautiful instruments played by incredible musicians. I am a story teller and a conscious writer, so my songs will make you smile and laugh, maybe cry a little tear and think a thought or two, but you'll definitely be feeling mine and Mr McKinley's groove! There is of course a pinch of humour, as without humour life would be very dreary! It’s going to be a soulful and funky, jazzy, happy, heart breaking, breath taking, sexy journey with a little plea for change! It’s gonna be DEEP!
Your funding is essential to help me produce the album that ‘Little Girl’ is a part of. The songs are about my journey before motherhood and beyond! There are a few songs from my first locally distributed album, Sweet Child, waiting to be recorded again to the same standard that Little Girl reached. Some of the songs on Sweet Child reached perfection, the title track was definitely one of them and West Coast is a favourite for many but then there were ones that were really just great demos. It has been my dream for years, to finally hear those songs as they are in my head and put them in their rightful place on Project Deeps timeline.
If I can raise more than 3k it will go towards the cost of muscians, artists, designers and producers who are making Project Deep with me. They are an amazing group of talented people who love my music and believe many others will too. To pay them a percentage of their worth will be the 'cherry on top' of this dream of mine.
Every donation, no matter how small can help me achieve something I've been trying to do for some time now. Please check out my website - http://www.sophiaripley.com to hear and read about my recent musical journey and please read my many endorsements below.
Sophia's first recordings have shown great promise and I'm sure that being given the platform to record an album will allow her artistry to grow immensely. I hope you can help. Jeff Young - Jazz FM
"In my opinion, Sophia Ripley has an incredible voice, and a song writing style that's both refreshing, and regal. Artists of her calibre should be heard, and celebrated!" Elbert Phillips – Producer
"Sophia Ripley is a joy to listen to. Her soulful singing is always from the heart and her songwriting talents unique and original". Claire Martin OBE - Jazz singer and BBC Radio 3 Broadcaster
Sophia Ripley 'brings it home' again with her sublime vocals. Such a talented singer/songwriter. Watch this space! Trisha Dickens – Jazz Singer
The music and vocal talent of Sophia Ripley has been showcased on my Music Without Labels show on Soulpower-radio many times and will continue too because it is that good xx David Lyn - Soul Power Radio
Sophia has great talent, her vocal range is terrific and has lovely rich soulful jazzy tones. Little Girl was one of the standout tracks of 2016 and I cannot wait to hear some new material. Xx Steve Laming – Soul Power Radio
What can I say about Sophia Ripley when I first heard her voice I said omg this young Lady is a big star in the making very soon, just love her voice and an amazing songwriter. Jimmy Davis from soundfusionradio big Love JD xxx
"I've known and admired Sophia's talents as a singer/songwriter for over 20 years now, and would love to see her finally have the opportunity, time and funds to realise a full album of her work, and allow the music loving public to hear what she's capable of!” Adam Benton
"It is around ten years since “Sweet Child”, the remarkable and exquisite debut solo album by Sophia Ripley arrived on the scene. I have eagerly awaited a follow-up ever since, so the news that Sophia was about to commence a crowd-funding project to produce another album was most welcome. Crowd-funding is a great way of supporting your favourite artistes and gives you a real feeling of ownership of the project from start to finish. I hope that many of you will join me in investing in this project and I eagerly anticipate the outcome." Stephen Clark
Sophia should record an album because her music is sophisticated, sublime, beautiful and her talent would be wasted if her music was not recorded. Gordon Gee - Cruise FM
"Wow the first time I heard Little Girl I was blown away - sublime I seem to recall saying! Had to get it straight away and I played it on my very next show - I wasn't alone everyone jumped on it - quality in the extreme!" Heddi Greenwood ‘Jazz not Jazz’- LickFM
“Sophia Ripley….incredible to work with!” Clem Curtis
"Sophia Ripley is a talented singer/songwriter with a superb voice. Sophia's single 'Little Girl' is a wonderfully soulful song with great production values and heartfelt lyrics that every parent can identify with and leaves a little knowing smile. Please help to support Sophia with the making of her album, you will not be disappointed. Paul Fossett - 'The Session' on Soulpower Radio."
Well I heard Sophia's single little girl on jimmy Davis show bought single/eps straight away on iTunes also love colour blind -brilliant got a Jill Scott feel to it. Really looking forward to more from in my opinion a very talented singer. Dean Collery
I first heard Sophia Ripley live at a birthday party for Clem Curtis and recognised a quality vocalist. She is also an accomplished song writer after hearing and playing her single 'Little Girl' on the radio, I look forward to playing more on my Soul Selection Show, Sundays 10am - 12 on Delite Radio, DAB in London & Manchester - Louie Martin
I can’t tell you how proud I am, to hear Sophia’s sublime voice finally transmitting across the airways. I know that voice in an instant. I’ve witnessed the hard graft and effort that Soph has had to make in the past 20+ years, paying her dues to the music industry. There have been many, many times we felt she was on the brink of breaking through, but then the realisation, not this time. As you would, she wondered if her music was ever going to reach and touch a wider audience. Working with the artists she has, performing at the esteemed venues she has, we knew it was only a matter of time. Sure she was writing fantastic songs, and locally, her first album 'Sweet Child' was hot property, but struggling to reach across the county boundaries. And then Sophia was blessed with a child, her beautiful daughter. Soph wrote a song. Damn, she wrote a song! Now! Now is her time, her moment to share with you all, her beautiful, touching, deep, soul searching, truthful songs, that make up her forthcoming album. But, she’s not quite there yet, she just needs that little extra help. She has a daughter – her Little Girl she has to provide for, but at the same time she needs to create. If ever there was an artist, who needed some help at a pivotal stage in their career, this is that person. Sophia is a singer, a songwriter, a mother, sister, daughter, aunt and a friend, but most of all she is a talent, that must not go unnoticed. Alison Lloyd, friend and advocate
"Sophia has the voice and dedication of a true professional. Well worth helping her get to the next stage in her career." John Mercer - Producer Riverrun Records
Little Girl by Sophia Ripley - This beautiful track was dedicated to me by a great friend of mine after I gave birth to my beautiful baby girl. Despite her being both early and very small and spending time in the baby unit, this became our anthem as soon as she came home, it felt like it was written for us. Melts me every day that I play it to my baby girl, as does she and this comes straight from Sophia's heart... the perfect track for anyone with a little girl. Victoria C Harper
Sophia Ripley is a very talented singer and songwriter, whose rich and soulful voice gives me goose bumps - always a pleasure to hear her sing and I fully support her song writing talent and look forward to hearing more. Sheryl Day of Day-2-Night Musical Promotions
Sophia's voice and talent says it best but what is does not say is how hard she works, how determined she is and how deserving she is. This is one committed, lovely lady who can really deliver. Peter Parker – Clever Captures
Sophia Ripley a truly delightful performer who never fails to please with her artistry a pleasure to endorse such amazing talent xxx Keith Stewart – Vibe Radio
Really blown away with 'Little Girl' the first release from Sophia Ripley. Got lots of air time on my show 'Soul Fever' on zeroradio.co.uk. Superb vocals from an exciting new British talent. Steve George – Zero Radio
One of my favourite tracks of 2016 Little Girl by Sophia Ripley can't wait to hear an album from her! John Rodgers - Soulbeat Radio
If the album is going to be as good as Little Girl it's going to be absolute quality! Ray New – Soul power Radio
Sophia sings in a way that moves you....real feeling is expressed and I just love her voice. Carol Henderson – Artist
Sophia Ripley's first single Little Girl has been well received by others. I really enjoyed it and look forward to hearing more from this engaging talent. Paul Jolly - 33 r.p.m.
This album is one of sensation, a must have! Greg Lassiter – CEO/Platinum G Records
"I love listening to Sophia. She has rich smooth vocals with a great range!" Sandii Mac – vocalist
"Sophia is an amazing artist with liquid gold vocals. Her songs are beautifully written, each telling a story that relates to many different aspects of life. I can't wait for this album to finally be released for all to enjoy" Jo Godfrey – vocalist
“This talented lady has been hidden away for far too long. I've had the pleasure of seeing her perform both jazz and soul with a seemingly effortless style. Sophia deserves a platform to bring her to a wider audience”. Gavin Selwood
I really love hearing Sophia sing! My favourite is her cover of Jill Scott's "Golden". She has a unique sound and I could listen to her sing all day. Maria Davis
"Sophia Ripley has a stunningly beautiful voice. I wish her every success. She deserves it." Nick Page
This woman's voice needs to be heard; she brings a unique sweetness and ultimately authenticity to jazz soul which is what all great music is all about. Stuart Warwick
Sophia is a hardworking musician who has to get a break. There are too many tunes that need to get heard so don't miss out. Ian Lawrence
Sophia epitomises the very best of the UK Soul Independents; a superb musician and songwriter, with an amazing vocal talent. Definitely an artist for the future. Andrew Ackerman – MKFM
" Songs from Sophia Ripley make me travel on my mind to a sweet and beautiful place where is a happiness to be there! her voice is so sweetness and I feel something smooth and sugar!! so if I want relax myself and traveling!! Sophia's songs are perfect for!!! THANKSSS;)" Tony Balbera
"Black Cat Radio is pleased and honoured to associate with Sophia. A beautiful, soulful singer with a voice as smooth as silk. We are happy to support her as a local talent. She has featured on Steve Luff's show and David Thomas too" Black Cat Radio
Voice of an angel with more than a sprinkle of funk!!! Sarah Humphreys
You have all seen the film with Matt Damon in it, ‘The talented Mr Ripley’, well this is the female version in music ‘The talented Miss Ripley’ Everyone needs to hear this new Album xx can't wait to hear more tracks form the very talented, professional Sophia Ripley. Steve Carr
"Sophia Ripley is a wonderful vocalist. Respectful of both the traditions of jazz and the spirit of soul she has forged her own unique path on the British music scene. a natural performer and voice teacher she has worked hard at her craft and you can hear it”! Kate Williams - jazz singer
When I was show business journalist between 1983 to 2010 reviewing and meeting many International Artists from home and abroad, one of the best feelings I had and still do today was being totally blown away by new and often unsigned artists and this was most certainly the case when I first had the pleasure of working with Sophia Ripley, who at the time performed on the same stage as the award winning Kenny Thomas, let's make no mistake to Sing and perform Black Music to such an incredible level was sensational, and at the time I do believe she performed some original self-written tracks, which I am sure are already earmarked for her debut album. If anyone deserves sponsorship to bring the album about its the Incredible Sophia Ripley, it's one thing doing lots of touring up and down the country and mesmerising crowds but her album release for the masses is long overdue. Thus I'm Awarding Ms Sophia Ripley a Don Neufville 5 Star ' Brilliant!! Don Neufville
Sophia Ripley. A singer and songwriter so talented and dedicated that more people must hear her songs and voice. Her song little girl is an inspiration and touching. I have had the pleasure of working as a backing vocalist for Sophia and her energy is unmeasurable. Sophia is a very committed artist and she invests in every rehearsal and performance with patience and respect for every detail musically... Tee Ward
Sophia is an emerging new talent in the soul world. I look forward to hearing more of her hugely evocative vocals. Mandy Morrow – Radio Wey
Sophia Ripley is probably one of the hardest working artists on the British independent scene. I "met" Sophia in a music forum on Facebook called "RGL" (Rare Groove Lovers). Her love of all things soulful was apparent. Unbeknown to me, she was carving out a career of her own. "Little Girl", written by Sophia is her first solo and self-produced release, inspired by her daughter. I played it on my Wednesday afternoon radio show, "The Soulful Jamboree" which airs on www.jfsr.co.uk. It was well received. Definitely one to watch. "Lawless"
Here is one absolutely superb vocalist, performer, musical lady who is a dedicated artist in her craft. This is a chance for you all to support her creative work. It's always been a pleasure contributing to her performances. Love and peace. Bryan Paul – bassist
Hi Sophia, been a long time. How’s you?... I can remember the 1st time you came to the 3rd Floor and I said to Keni Stevens I thought you could go all the way, now I hear your putting an album together? ...Happy days, keep in touch and let me know when it’s due out. Take care x Nigel Gilbert
'Sophia is a consummate professional. Her voice never ceases to impress me and her dynamic music allows you to connect with her feelings on an intimate level. I have no doubt that a talent this great, will deliver an album that is truly a breath of fresh air and will connect with every listener.' Ray Lloyd – Livewire Studio
Sophia Ripley is a very talented singer and songwriter. Her single "Little Girl" was produced to a very professional quality. Her music is an inspiration to me, and can't wait to hear her next masterpiece. Rob Kitchener
I have heard Sophia Ripley sing live and her voice is amazing. Her recent release of Little Girl is well written and heartfelt. A beautiful song sung beautifully by Sophia. Her voice is memorable and carries you away. From Little Girl alone I can see how incredible an album of hers would be. Joanne N Davey May
"Sophia is an incredible new female artist with her own unique style, a strong and colourful vocal presence which is a rare and beautiful thing to find within the mass of music blandness." Boon with Music Is Da Answer Show (MIDAS) between 1-4pm every Saturday. Ian Schofield – Boon – Soul Power Radio
“Angelic voice that soothes the soul.” Kelvin Wright
Gorgeous AND talented........ Russ Bramley
Sophia Ripley ..very talented and a beautiful soul... when I listen to her sing...I hear a little Jill Scott very soulful and jazzy ...Love her two songs Colour Blind and Little girl... Wishing her the best in her endeavors.. GL from USA xxx
“Loved Little Girl and looking forward to hearing more from Sophia Ripley.” Cheryl Frances-Hoad – composer – cellist
Sophia has certainly mastered her craft. She has an ability to amaze everyone who hears her beautiful voice. Sophia's skills as both a singer and as a vocal coach are second to none. She is extremely passionate about her music and has helped so many by teaching others (like myself) to develop their vocal range. Her name is synonymous with talent. She's also a very nice person! Charlene Samms – vocalist
Sophia Ripley has such a soulful and warm voice. She's an accomplished vocalist and an intense (but ever so cool) artist bringing bags of passion to her music. Silvia Marson
Sophia is a unique talent with an amazing voice, she captivates and charms her audience. It's always a delight to see & hear her. Jeanette Devine
“Great singer with an enchanting voice.” Mark Whitlock – vocalist