Imogen was born in London into a theatrical family, both parents were actors (her father was the late David Ryall) and her great uncle was Robert Eddison. She made her singing debut at the age of 17 at the Chichester Jazz Festival supporting Kathy Stobart and went on to study jazz at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and whilst there, was lucky enough to study and work with the likes of Norma Winstone, John Taylor and Kenny Wheeler.
She soon became a regular performer on the London jazz scene and over the years has worked extensively both nationally and internationally including residencies at the Dorchester Hotel, London and for the Crown Plaza group in Seoul, Dubai and Oman and at venues closer to home such as the 606 Club, Jazz Café, Ronnie Scott’s and The Barbican Hall
Described as possessing “a very lovely voice indeed” by Jazz FM’s Sarah Ward, Imogen’s skillful improvising and her unique and heartfelt interpretations of the jazz standard repertoire have made her a popular performer with both audiences and musicians alike.
In 2014, Imogen began recording and performing with Mark Edwards’ band Cloggz at venues including The Old Market, Brighton; Watermill Jazz Club, the 606 Club and at Love Supreme, Cheltenham, Brighton and South Coast Jazz Festivals. They launched their debut album ‘Sawdust and Spangles’ in 2016 which reached No. 5 in the ITunes Jazz chart.
“The input of vocalist Imogen Ryall also brings a subtle power to the musical pallette” Kevin Le Gendre, BBC Radio 3
As a lyricist, Imogen has penned lyrics to a number of compositions by various composers including Larry Goldings and Carla Bley. Most recently, her lyrics appear on two albums by multi award-winning vocalist, Claire Martin OBE: ‘Bumpin’ – A Celebration of Wes Montgomery’ for Danish label, Stunt and her most recent release for Linn Records, ‘Believin’ It’.
Imogen has recorded 3 self-produced albums, ‘Alone Together’ with guitarist Andy Williams; ‘Waltz for Ruth’ with Rod Hart and Dave Green and ‘There Will Be Time’ with the Jack Kendon Quintet featuring Julian Nicholas.
I love Imogen's voice. She sings with heart and intelligence, sensuality and style; a natural musicianClaire Martin OBE
The addition of the honey-toned but incisive voice of Imogen Ryall was the icing on the cake. Her pitching flawless, she somehow manages to combine an apparently effortless precision with a warm, inviting sound, drawing the listener in to her beguiling worldLondon Jazz News