Dream a Little Dream of Carole

By Meg Gilbert

Called a “21st-century Barbra Streisand” by the New York Times, Carole J. Bufford and her vivacious vocals are back and better than ever this summer with Come Together: When the 60s Met the 70s. Covering music from Nancy Sinatra, Dusty Springfield, and Jeannie C. Riley, and featuring hits like “Dream a Little Dream of Me” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Come Together is a fresh look at two of the most musically influential decades in American history.

“Researching this era, I was fascinated by how the changes in the sound of the music so accurately reflected our country’s history, specifically the years from 1965-1975,” said Bufford. “I was especially interested in the stories behind the songs—how were they created and what was happening in the music industry at the time?”

Through humor, storytelling, and song, Carole explores defining moments in ‘60s and ‘70s American history along with the lives of the decade’s most iconic songwriters.

In 1969, David Clayton-Thomas was inspired to write “Spinning Wheel” after seeing society’s desire for revolution and change. He wanted the song to be a lesson in patience and urge reflection on the life’s cyclical nature. A few years earlier, clashes between police and young people in California inspired Stephen Stills to write “For What It’s Worth.”

Part of what makes Come Together so special is Carole’s unique take on these favorites, along with the meaningful and historical connection she includes in every song.

“I listened to this music as a kid. If we’re talking favorites, I love Tina Turner and Dusty Springfield,” Bufford said. “Kris Kristofferson is one of the greatest storytellers in song. Otis Redding and Carole King move me to tears. Every single song in this show is attached to a story or anecdote of an artist that made the tune famous.”

Carole is a regular performer at 54 Below, one of NYC’s most renowned nightlife hangouts.

“I leave the stage exhausted in the best way possible,” shared Bufford. “There is a sense of urgency in all of the music, since the ‘60s were, in many ways, about chasing freedom. As an actress, nothing is more invigorating than high stakes.”

Carole will be joined on stage by a dynamic band made up of pianist Assaf Gleizner (The Music of the Night, The Swingaroos),  guitarist Chuck Davis (Always…Patsy Cline, Piano Men), drummer Tony Bruno (Always…Patsy Cline, Hairspray, Spamalot) and bass player Kroy Presley (Roar!, Million Dollar Quartet).

TimeOut New York has called her “one of cabaret’s rising stars,” and we can’t wait for you to see why.