Jeremy monteiro is one of Singapore’s most successful jazz musicians, having performed across the world, as well as being awarded a cultural medallion in 2002. The King of Swing tells us about his life, quirks and musical influences.

Describe yourself in three words.
Hardworking. Lazy. Dreamer.

Which famous musician, alive or dead, would you love to perform with?
American singer-songwriter and guitarist James Taylor.

What is your greatest achievement to date?
The concert I held in 2010 for my 50th birthday. S.R. Nathan (the President then) graced the event as the Guest of Honor, and the concert managed to raise $1.1 million for community chest.

Describe your most memorable performance.
Playing on the main stage at montreux Jazz Festival in 1988 with my bandmates Redd Holt and the late eldee Young. We had a standing ovation from almost 4,000 people! The concert was televised live all over europe.

What are the three things that you absolutely cannot live without?
My mac Powerbook, brompton bicycle and custom-adjusted Kawai XO upright-grand piano.

If you were an instrument, what would you be?
Cello—I love the sound, expressiveness and range of the instrument.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
Flying—I would flit around the world to catch great gigs and concerts.

What is your greatest vice?
I drink too much coffee.

Jeremy Monteiro will perform on Jan 3 and 4, 9.30pm, at The Sultan Jazz Club, $25.

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