NEW ORLEANS - Women's History Month is an annual declared month worldwide that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. It is celebrated during March in the United States. In keeping with the National Women's History Project's mission of recognizing and celebrating the diverse accomplishment of women; the New Orleans Agenda offers a salute to the following "Women in Jazz/Music" performers for their cultural contributions to the continued growth of America's only original art form, jazz.

The 100th United States Congress declared jazz a "rare and valuable national American treasure to which we should devote our attention, support and resources to make certain it is preserved, understood, and promulgated." Jazz has inspired some of the Nation's leading creative artists and ranks as one of New Orleans' greatest cultural exports. These women are to be acknowledged, recognized, and celebrated for their demonstrated commitment to the future of music, and jazz standards in particular.

New Orleans Women in Jazz

Keeping Jazz Standards Alive!

Germaine Bazzle

Germaine Bazzle is often referred to as one of New Orleans' important jazz vocalists. After graduation from Xavier University of Louisiana, Germaine began a teaching career and entertaining in the same year, teaching during the day and playing bass in a local traditional jazz band at night. After 12 years as a teacher, she left the classroom for a short time and began singing with various bands in New Orleans. 

Three years later, she returned to the classroom, but continued to perform with such jazz greats as Alvin "Red" Tyler, Peter "Chuck" Badie, Victor Goines, bassist/vocalist, George French, pianist Ellis Marsalis, Emile Vinnette, Larry Siebert, David Torkanowsky and many more. Germaine Bazzle can be heard on her CD entitled "Standing Ovation". 

One of the true legends of New Orleans jazz, Germaine Potter Bazzle has been under-recognized nationally and internationally through her entire career. On par with R&B queen Irma Thomas, her voice in jazz is as distinctive as any, with a sweet soul to match. Influenced by the greats like Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billy Eckstein, she took on a repertoire of classic jazz, American popular songs, show tunes, and the music of Duke Ellington. Sounds of the church were never far behind, and she sang regularly on Sundays with the Saint Louis Catholic Choir. A graduate of Xavier University, Bazzle chose to stay at home, instructing mostly young girls in choir and music appreciation at Xavier Prep. 

A teacher of music at heart, Germaine Bazzle is still a faculty member of the at the famed Louis Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp in New Orleans.



Lillian Boutté

On the musical scene for more than 30 years, Lillian Boutte' is a monument to jazz, Gospel and R&B. A talented singer, she has literally traveled the whole world, bringing her music from Asia to Europe. She was decorated Ambassador of Music by the city of New Orleans (the only musician since Louis Armstrong to receive this honored title) for her many decades of activity.

  

She can be seen in Stevenson Pallifi's award winning documentary "Piano Players rarely play together" featuring Professor Longhair, Toots Washington and her friend and mentor Allen Toussaint. She can also be seen in her cameo appearance in Allen Parker's film "Angel Heart" and is featured on the soundtrack with the Blues great Brownie McGee.

  

Her life long friend Mr. Vernell Bagneris molded her acting skills when he cast her in his black Vaudeville music ONE MO' TIME. He kept her busy with the show for 4 years; touring New Orleans, Sweden and Brazil. She has performed and can be heard on recordings with legendary music greats as Edward Frank, Lloyd Lambert, Joseph 'Smokey' Johnson, Jay Mc Shane, Harry 'Sweets' Edison, Milt Hinton, Gus Johnson, Sammy Price, Doc Cheatham, Arnett Cobb, Al Casey, Dr. John, Benny Waters, Danny Barker, Professor Longhair, Clark Terry and with England's trumpet great Humphrey Lyttleton and more.

  

With success in 1992 she spearheaded 45 of her New Orleans Music Friends and brought the sounds of Cajun, Soul, R & B, Gospel, Traditional N.O. Brass band and as well the New Orleans cuisine to 22 cities in Germany under the title SPIRIT OF LOUISIANA. In 1993 she originated the project GOSPEL UNITED in co-operation with 2 Danish organizers, where she was able to show her musical and social influences. This project in 1994 brought LILLIAN and her New Orleans Gospel group together with 1000 voices of students from all over Denmark - including a Live-CD and TV-coverage with great success, which went into another project in 1995 with a choir this time of 3000 voices on stage with her.

  

Lillian still continues to share her music throughout the world thru concerts, festivals special Music projects and her passion for workshops with kids and Adults have taken her around the world.

  

The unconditional love of her beloved city New Orleans was magnified on the 29th of August 2005 when Hurricane Katrina devastated the Musically Rich city. She was contacted on that morning by good friend and college Elmar Hoff whom together started a Musicians Fund to help her city in whatever means they could. An account was opened and over the last years the fund has been successful in sponsoring a New Orleans Elementary School, the New Orleans Musicians Clinic, Transportation Support for fellow musicians to travel over in order to tour and earn money in the midst of the disaster.

  

The Ascona Jazz Award 2006 is bestowed upon New Orleans singer Lillian Boutté for her profuse efforts in support of Katrina victims in her role as World Ambassadress of New Orleans music and Godmother of the SOS New Orleans Jazz Heritage Fund launched last by JazzAscona.



Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony

Topsy Chapman is one of New Orleans' finest singers, adept at gospel, blues, rhythm and blues and jazz. Her trio Solid Harmony - with daughters Yolanda Windsay and Jolynda Phillips - is one of the best, most soulful vocal harmony groups working today. The group records and performs their original compositions, as well as their signature arrangements of traditional and modern jazz, blues, and gospel, in New Orleans and around the world.

 

It all started for Topsy Chapman on a farm in Kentwood, Louisiana - a farm where gospel music was raised right along with the cotton. Topsy Chapman has performed for presidents and royalty (the Queen of England), received rave reviews from the New York Times, Variety and the New York Post, appeared in such publications as Time, Jet, Ebony, and Essence and most recently, performed in the award-winning Steve McQueen film, 12 Years a Slave (2013); The Modern Masters of New Orleans (2013); and No Cross, No Crown (2009). Topsy was also chosen as an original cast member and vocal arranger of the off Broadway hit One Mo Time which received critical acclaim.

 

As a solo artist, Topsy has toured all of Europe, Asia, Australia and has traveled the Americas performing gospel, traditional and Dixieland jazz. She has also performed and/or recorded with Nicholas Payton, the Magnolia Jazz Band, the Blue Serenaders, Willie Humphrey, Chester Zardis, Alvin Stardust, Butch Thompson, Dick Hyman, Herb Ellis, Lionel Ferbos, and has made several appearances on Garrison Keillors A Priarie Home Companion.

 

Through it all, her humility and genuine caring have endeared her to generations of New Orleans musicians. Topsy Chapman is quite simply one of New Orleans' living musical treasures.

Leah Chase

The daughter of trumpeter and bandleader Dookie Chase and restaurateur and namesake Leah Chase, vocalist Leah Chase grew up surrounded by music and undoubtedly good food. She cites her father's love of jazz and her mother's penchant for vocalists like Johnny Mathis as influencing her musical preferences - jazz and ballads. As a child, she became aware of her vocal abilities after winning praise for a performance and thereafter she was often called on to sing at various events.

 

Chase joined the high school choir at Xavier Prep and studied voice and piano at Xavier University Junior School of Music. Singing in the New Orleans Recreation Department Theater's production of Hallelujah Baby offered her further experience. She considers her first "professional" gigs as singing pop hits with a group called Market and also portraying a "woman of the blues" in a Las Vegas-type show.

 

While Chase was majoring in classical voice at Loyola University, where she earned a degree in vocal performance, she also participated in the jazz band. The mezzo-soprano went on to study classically at the Julliard School of Music but after a year, she says she realized that the style "wasn't where I think I live." It was the late 1970s when Chase came back home and got a job at the Chateau Sonesta, where she spent a year doing what she describes as a cabaret show. When her pianist, Craig Fisher, decided to head to California she went, too. During her 12 years on the West Coast she had the opportunity to sing more jazz. "I'm most comfortable with jazz," she says. "I like the freedom you have to create." After the sudden death of her sister in '90, Chase returned to New Orleans to help out at her mother's restaurant, Dookie Chase, "It was time to come back - it was good to have my daughter around family." She got back into singing again when Dolores Marsalis, the wife of pianist Ellis Marsalis, asked if she would perform at a program for St. Mary's High School. Afterward, Dolores said, "You really ought to be doing this." She has been back on the scene ever since, leading groups filled with New Orleans' finest. Chase is also an adjunct professor at Loyola and Tulane universities and the University of New Orleans, as well as being involved with Delfeayo Marsalis' children's theatre program.

Leah is a staple of the New Orleans music fabric, performing with such luminaries as Michael Pellera, Philip Manuel, Harry Shearer, Jesse Boyd, Larry Sieberth, Matt Lemmler, and Ed Petersen. She can be heard at the Windsor Court Hotel, Sweet Lorraine's, Snug Harbor, and notable festivals such as the French Quarter Fest and the Jazz and Heritage Festival.

 

After Hurricane Katrina and the federal levee failures, she, along with pianists David Torkanowski and Tom McDermott and clarinetist Evan Christopher were invited by the French Ministry of Culture to perform in Paris and throughout France. Leah can be heard on her CD entitled "At Last" and also on the Matt Lemmier CD "Portraits of Wonder".

 

Her sense of humor blends with her inimitable stagecraft and vocal skills, rending her one of jazz's most sought-after vocalists.

Nayo Jones

Nayo Jones (pronounced Nīyō) was born in Chicago, Illinois into a family of musicians and destined to be in show business. As an accomplished jazz musician and music educator, her father William “Doc” Jones groomed and nurtured her natural ability from a very young age. Nayo grew up listening to Jazz standards that proved to be a solid foundation and would later become a signature in her own show. Accomplished in her own right, Jones is also a classically trained flutist.

Currently Nayo is based in New Orleans, LA where she performs regularly with her band “The Nayo Jones Experience”. In addition to her own show, Ms. Jones also tours alongside New Orleans iconic jazz trumpeter, Kermit Ruffins as a featured vocalist. Recently, she has also joined forces with the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra lead by Adonis Rose. She will be featured on their upcoming album as well as live performances. 

Nayo’s vocal range has been compared to the likes of Natalie Cole, Nancy Wilson, even Whitney Houston. She has been the opening act for legendary George Benson, Chris Botti and more. 

Nayo has been on stage at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, French Quarter Fest and many other Louisiana festivals annually since 2012. She has consistently drawn rave reviews for her performances. Nayo and her band, “The Nayo Jones Experience” has a longstanding residency at the Carousel Lounge located in the historic Hotel Montelone and The Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta Hotel.

Nayo’s body of work includes her first original album “My Name is Nayo Jones”, a “Holiday Collection”, a compilation project featuring her dad Doc Jones, and her EP simply titled “Nayo”. Jones is excited about her latest project, “The Nayo Jones Experience Live at the Kerr Cultural Center”, which is a live performance recorded at the Kerr Cultural Center in Scottsdale, AZ in celebration of International Jazz Day.

NayoJones.com

Stephanie Jordan

Jazz at Lincoln Center notes, "every so often a new voice stands up and proclaims itself, but few do so with such supreme depth and understated soul...."  

Stephanie Jordan's current show continues her signature trademark of singing jazz standards from the Big Band era, including highlights from her "Stephanie Jordan Sings A Tribute to the Fabulous Lena Horne" CD which honors the legendary Grammy Award winner.  

 

Jordan is consistently praised for her poise, elegance, and soulful articulation. She draws frequent comparisons to her mentor-the legendary jazz chanteuse Shirley Horn-as well as Abbey Lincoln, and Carmen McRae. Critics have also likened Ms. Jordan to jazz stars Diana Krall and Nancy Wilson. As a late minute replacement for Grammy Award-winning singer Leis, Chicago Tribune's leading art critic Howard Reich was led to proclaim, "The woman can sing ...  

 

The Washington Post boasts of her Kennedy Center performance, "A poised, soulfully articulate vocalist, Stephanie Jordan turned in a performance that warmly evoked the influence of Abbey Lincoln, Shirley Horn, Carmen McRae and other jazz greats." JazzTimes Magazine wrote "Stephanie Jordan, a standout here, was the real discovery of the evening... Singing with a clarity of diction that recalled Nat "King" Cole. The London Monthly Herald declares, "Ms. Stephanie Jordan reminds me of the flashy dashy days of Josephine Baker at the Lido in Paris". Recognized internationally, the Sud Ouest French publication calls her "unbelievably superb."  

 

Just as she had ten years ago at Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Stephanie Jordan Big helped frame the moment of the evening at "The Power of Community: Katrina 10 Commemoration" on August 29, 2015 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. Jordan said "I am honored to have been asked by Mayor Landrieu to sing the classic tune "Home" from the Broadway musical "The Wiz" during the commemoration" 

 

Stephanie Jordan has performed before such dignitaries as President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey, Susan Taylor and a national PBS NPR televised audience. Jordan whose musical career began in the DC area has performed on such stellar stages as the Kennedy Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, the NBA All-Star Game, Chicago's Harris Theater, the Marians Jazzroom in Bern, Switzerland, and the inaugural International Jazz Day which was celebrated by millions worldwide.

 

Jordan has appears live on NPR's Talk of the Nation, the Kennedy Center, Jazz Standard, Club Dizzy's, Marians Jazzroom in Bern, Switzerland, St. Croix Blue Bay Jazz Fest, The Setai - South Beach Miami, Manship Theatre, Takoma Station, Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Duke Ellington Festival, Chicago JazzFest Heritage, Glenwood Springs, Co., Adagio's Jazz Club, Hayti Heritage Center, Sweet Lorraine's Jazz Club and is a regular at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.  

 

The Washingtonian Magazine labeled her "JAZZHOT." Audix Microphones has dubbed her "Lady Jazz!" 

 

Jordan is the fifth performer to emerge from a family of New Orleans bred musicians. As the daughter of saxophonist Edward "Kidd" Jordan, Stephanie's musical roots run deep; siblings include flutist Kent, trumpeter Marlon, and classical violinist Rachel Jordan. A graduate of Howard University, Stephanie is also a certified fitness instructor and creator of Jazz Pilates which is offered free to the public every Wednesday in partnership with the French Market Corporation and the New Orleans Jazz National Park Visitors Center.

www.StephanieJordan.com

Quiana Lynell

“Quiana Lynell is a unique talent. She possesses the maturity of a well-seasoned vocalist while having a forward-thinking approach to creativity, all while making her audience feel at home as she does her thing.”

— trumpeter/composer Terence Blanchard

“Quiana Lynell’s voice travels from Texas through New Orleans up out of the church where many of the very best gospel, blues and jazz singers have had their roots. She seamlessly operates from the heart of the matter and is at home singing all of the above without artifice, and more importantly, she tells a story. If you listen carefully, she tells her story and even your story because she brings the walls down between herself and the audience like all great singers do.” 

—A Little Love producer Brian Michel Bacchus

In 2017, Quiana Lynell made her salient mark on the jazz-and-beyond musical world as a wise, heartfelt, warm vocalist whose voice is singular in its soul, intensity, ecstasy and outright spiritual courage. She played with her trio at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival which led to her performing in Poland with trumpeter Terence Blanchard’s Spike Lee tribute with a 75-piece orchestra. In November, after considering for a couple of years whether she was ready, she decided to vie for the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition Award. She commanded the finals stage at NJPAC’s Victoria Theater and wowed the judges and audience with her vocal prowess that earned her the prize, which afforded her the opportunity to record an album for Concord Records. The result, 2019’s A Little Love, produced by the renowned Brian Michel Bacchus, is testament to what a rare, mesmerizing artist can achieve on her auspicious debut. 

A feast of soul, gospel, r&b, groove and jazz, A Little Love blooms with songs about searching, trying times, buoyant love, deep reflection and social action. Lynell sings with the voice of authority and the takeaway from the album as a whole is honesty. She’s a truth-seeking storyteller with a spirited resolve. She covers a wide range of songs, from Nina Simone to Chaka Khan, from Duke to the Gershwins, from Donny Hathaway to Irma Thomas, with the bookends of the album featuring songs by powerful modern artists Alina Engibaryan and Joshuah Campbell.

QuianaLynell.com

Sharon Martin

What makes a voice unique and entertaining is surely exemplified in the ever-changing expression of the singer of songs and the teller of musical tales. In New Orleans, that mistress of coal soul is none other than Sharon Martin, a petite frame that carries one of the most powerfully soulful voices around.

  

Martin is a deft performer, navigating her Billie Holiday through stages of disintegration onstage - but more to the point, her vocal mimicry of Holiday's distinct style is spot on," writes Gambit magazine. Martin appeared in two episodes of the HBO production of "Treme" as well as in T.D. Jakes' movie "On the 7th Day". Sharon Martin has been serving up exciting music not only to her loyal fans in New Orleans but also around the world, including a tour of Japan with the legendary Joe Sample. Her performance in the Republic of Georgia has earned her the respect and admiration of audiences everywhere.

Her versatility as a vocalist and an entertainer has garnered her many spots as an opening act for major artists such as Roy Ayers, Gill Scott Heron, Nagee, Ronnie Laws, Buddy Guy, and Boz Scaggs. In New Orleans, Martin helped to establish the once thriving Showcase Lounge as one of the city's most exciting addresses for Jazz and Blues. Her talents are unlimited. As Program Director for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation she furthered showcased her talents producing many of concerts for the NOJHF programs.

Voted as one of the best vocalists by her peers in the OffBeat magazine, Martin has shared the stage with some of the finest musical talents the music world has to offer including Grammy winners; Ray Parker, Jr., Benny Carter, Nicholas Payton, Alonzo Bowens, Donald Harrison Jr and Dave Bartholomew. She has worked with New Orleans legends, Wilson "Willie T" Turbinton, Deacon John, Ellis Marsalis, Walter Payton, Michael Ward, Herman Ernest and The House of Blues All Stars, The Carl LeBlanc Group, Donald Harrison, Jr., and a host of others.

Facebook: SharonMartin

Sasha Masakowski

"There is a rare musical triple point where talent, vision, and a wicked sense-of-humor meet. Damn few artists ever make it there. I believe it must be the address of one Sasha Masakowski."- All About Jazz, 2015

Sasha Masakowski was born into a family of musicians in New Orleans, Louisiana and has been a leading voice on the New Orleans music scene since 2009, when she was awarded "Best Emerging Artist" by the Big Easy Association.

"A charismatic performer and one of the brightest young talents in the Big Easy" - Offbeat Magazine, 2011

She has since performed major clubs and festivals across the United States and abroad, and leads three bands of her own that range from traditional New Orleans jazz (Sidewalk Strutters) to contemporary jazz and world music (Musical Playground) to experimental electronic art-rock (Hildegard). 

"Her material choice shows a daring disregard for the commercial mainstream and a courage to step out and do something different...very successfully"- All About Jazz

"Masakowski's marvelous voice can be sly, sexy, exotic and arresting as she works her way through an incredibly diverse array of music that crosses cultural and stylistic lines in interesting ways" - All About Jazz

"The young singer makes it clear that this is high-fashion music that lives beyond the borders of the Big Easy.." - All About Jazz

SashaMasakowski.com

Lena Prima

Lena Prima, the daughter of the famed New Orleans trumpeter/vocalist, Louis Prima, has become the newest addition to the exclusive roster of artists on the award-winning Basin Street Records. Prima joins ranks with artists such as Kermit Ruffins, Rebirth Brass Band, Dr. Michael White, and Jason Marsalis on the 21-year old powerhouse label based in New Orleans. A seasoned veteran of the music industry, vocalist Prima is rooted in the music of the Crescent City, and in the words of Basin Street Records’ founder and president, Mark Samuels, she’s a perfect fit on the label. The new album, Prima La Famiglia, debuted at #10 on the Billboard Jazz Chart and is available on all major digital platforms and stores that sell fine music. 

Prima now resides and regularly performs in New Orleans and has made over 3,000 musical appearances throughout her career.​

Prima was born in Las Vegas to legendary Louis Prima and his fifth wife and sometime singing partner Gia Maione.

As a young girl Lena loved the music her Dad made and would play his records constantly. She would travel with Louis on his summer road trips and would frequently join him on stage to sing and dance, much to the delight of his audience. Lena had found her calling!

Lena’s family split time between New Orleans and Las Vegas as she grew, depending on her Dad’s career demands. Sadly, Louis lapsed into a coma when Lena was 11 and passed three years later. Against her mothers advice, Lena began singing professionally, and has continued since the age of 19. A string of rock and roll bands in her early years gave way to lounge and “cover bands”. It was while with the “Spiral Starecase” (I Love You More Today Than Yesterday) that Lena was inspired to create her own show, “Louis Prima, That’s My Dad!”

That was the early 2000’s and her show has grown and evolved, but always contains a loving tribute to Louis Prima. Lena moved back to New Orleans in 2011 and began a seven year residency at the beautiful Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter. During those years she recorded her 4th, 5th and 6th albums and found time to sing with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, perform at Gretna Fest, Voodoo Fest, The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and French Quarter Fest as well as traveling around the country to perform at Jazz Festivals, Jazz Clubs, Showrooms and Performing Arts Centers. 

2019 will find Lena touring both nationally and internationally in support of her new album, further exploring and promoting her Italian American heritage through her non profit organization CIAO Women, continuing her popular Lena Prima Jewelry line and of course, proudly continuing the great Prima legacy.  

LenaPrima.com

Wanda Rouzan

Wanda Rouzan, THE SWEETHEART OF NEW ORLEANS MUSIC, is best known as one of the crescent city's premier musical ambassadors. Wanda is usually seen leading her band, "A Taste of New Orleans", as well as singing with other bands and orchestras, performing at night clubs, festivals, conventions, casinos, river boats and cruise ships. She has toured the United States, Australia, Europe, Brazil and Japan, taking her music all over the world. Wanda fuses Blues and Jazz, Gospel and Soul, into a 'Jump on your feet and sing along' music revival. Ms. Rouzan's performances will fill your heart and spirit. Her show business career has been greatly influenced by Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Nancy Wilson, Etta James, Dinah Washington, Irma Thomas, Mahalia Jackson and Ellyna Tatum, New Orleans' First Female Grand Marshal. She carries on the New Orleans Tradition of leading Jazz Funerals and parades and Wanda is one the few females to do so. Rouzan was honored by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival when her Grand Marshall portrait graced the 1999 promotional poster and program book commemorating its 30th anniversary. 

 

Her show business career spans nearly fifty years. She appears regularly at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival, Tulane University's Commencement, and as a regular in HBO's "Treme". Wanda has four recordings; Mama Roux, A Taste of New Orleans, It's What I Do, and Where Ya' At?! She fuses jazz and blues, funk and soul, R&B, second line, spiritual and show into a 'Jump on your feet and sing along' music revival.

 

Ms. Rouzan has a Master's Degree and teaches Theatre Arts at Audubon Charter School. Musical Theater plays a prominent part in Wanda's career. She's a veteran performer in Tours of Vernel Bagneris' Musical "One Mo' Time". She was also recognized for performances in " A...My Name Is Alice", and the CAC's 1960's hit musical, " Where the Girls Were", where she regularly received standing ovations for her portrayal of Tina Turner. The ovations continued for her brilliant performance as Billie Holiday in " Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill" with Ellis Marsalis for which she received the Gambit's 'Big Easy' Best Actress Award. She has also received a 'Big Easy' award for Best Female Performer and continues to be recognized as one of New Orleans' Treasures. Wanda served as honorary music chair for the 2000 Gambit Big Easy Entertainment Awards.

 

Critical acclaim says that Ms. Wanda Rouzan is not just a "Taste of New Orleans", but, a "Whole Meal".

WandaRouzan.com

Betty Shirley

Jazz Vocalist extraordinaire, artist and teacher Betty Shirley has come full circle in her life and is now reaping the benefits of her hard-earned endeavors. The Times Picayune declares "...her range and command of the stage make Shirley's a voice that should be heard round the world."

Blessed with all the range and tonal control one might expect from a first-class Jazz singer, Shirley can scat, propel, coax and hang on to a note. She improvises with unerring instincts and delivers exactly what a song needs, spinning notes like silk. Michael 'Mr. Jazz' Gourrier (of WRIR-FM, Richmond Virginia) says about Betty, "One of the top female vocalists on the New Orleans scene. sensitive, sassy, coy and a great interpreter."

Betty Shirley says, "most of my singing is a natural expression, the voice is an instrument and to be able to sing illuminates the entire world, it has given me a chance to express my sincere devotion to this music." Shirley's extensive repertoire ranges from original compositions, Jazz (modern and traditional), and Blues to R&B, and Bossa Nova. Lucy Galliher, Musician and former East Coast Editor - Jazz Now Magazine writes "... her songs are alive, mixing vocalizing, talking and scanting into a wonderful blend of colors..."

Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Shirley spent her childhood in Chicago, and "ran off" to study music and art in New York City at the age of 16. Betty Shirley honed her skills on the New York scene making use of Jazz Mobile, and performing in such clubs as Birdland, Green Street Café and the Village Gate. In the early 1990's she followed her muse and settled in the great Jazz city of New Orleans where she has continued to perform at such clubs as Snug Harbor, Royal Sonesta and Donna's.

She has sung with some of the best Jazz musicians in the world: Ellis Marsalis, Art Blakey Jr., Benny Green and Bross Townsend, to name a few and her tours have included Europe and Brazil. Her credits include the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, the Pensacola Jazz Festival, Essence Fest and the Women in Jazz Series.

Betty Shirley most recent award was being named and honored as a 2007 Jazz All-star by New Orleans Magazine. Her other awards received included Best Jazz Vocalist, Gambit Magazine's Big Easy Awards and Duke Ellington Concerts Award.

As a recording artist, Shirley has 3 critically acclaimed CDs to her credit as a leader. Unveiled (1995), Betty Shirley Sings (with the Chuck Chaplin Trio, 2002), and Close Your Eyes (released March 2007). Unveiled was described by Offbeat Magazine as "not another album of tired standards. Shirley works the songs into new forms and lets them fly into unaccustomed orbits." Her latest work "Close Your Eyes," was completed just at the time Hurricane Katrina was rolling in. Other collaborations include working with pianist Betty List to write the lyrics for the song Jazz Waltz that appears on the CD Unveiled.

BettyShirleyMusic

Anais St. John

Elegant and seductive, Anaïs St. John is a singer whose daunting stage presence sends sensual shivers up the spines of audiences in venues both intimate and grand. A native New Orleanian and daughter of jazz alto saxaphonist Marion Brown, this Creole songstress is a seasoned performer deft at jazz, opera and musical theater. 

With a master's degree in vocal performance and years of experience as a music educator, Anaïs challenges her audience to sit up and take notice. Influenced by a wide variety of musical genres, Ms. St. John sets herself apart with a boundless hunger to use lyric, harmony and vocal power to weave a spell around audiences.

Her operatic and theatrical training is evident as she sings and purrs through a myriad of moods and vocal styles. In keeping with a classic cabaret tradition, she sprinkles her tunes with a bit of naughty and a whole lot of spice.

As voracious as she is versatile, Anaïs continues to expand her musical repertoire. In 2004 and 2007, she attended the prestigious Cabaret Conference at Yale University. She received an invitation in 2009 to participate in the Sarteano Choral Conducting Workshop in Tuscany and in 2011 was awarded the Iona Richardson Award for Excellence in Teaching at Trinity Episcopal School in New Orleans.

Anaïs received a nomination for a Big Easy Award for her 2010 cabaret tribute, A Purrfect Evening... The Songs of Eartha Kitt. Named one of New Orleans Magazine's"People to Watch," she has also been honored by Gambit Weekly with its coveted L'Image award.

A longtime headliner at the Polo Lounge at the Windsor Court Hotel, Anaïs has graced the stages at some of New Orleans's most revered jazz clubs including Snug Harbor, D.B.A. and Le Chat Noir. As alluring on the big stage as in those intimate settings, she has been a staple at the annual French Quarter Festival as well as at Bayou Boogaloo and the steamy summer Satchmo Fest.

ANAïS, her first C.D., was released to critical acclaim in 2012. With 14 standards to showcase her talent, the collection combines St. John's skill and sensuality with an uncanny blend of lusty earthiness and elegant stylings. Terry McDermott, runner-up on The Voice, described "her remarkable voice... cradled by luxury and as warm as a single malt."

Summers and holidays send Anaïs to festivals far and wide. Most recently, she made her way across the Atlantic to take her place among the women in jazz featured at Switzerland's Jazz Ascona. In December, she helped ring in a sultry New Year at the Umbria Winter Jazz Festival in Orvieto, Italy.

New Orleans Women in Music

Masters of Funk, Blues, Soul, Jazz and R&B

Tarriona "Tank" Ball (Tank and The Bangas)

Tarriona "Tank" Ball leads Tank & the Bangas, a band fusing spoken word, R&B, hip-hop and New Orleans funk. Tank writes and sings straight from the heart and brings a one of a kind energy to her soulful sets. Her music is diverse and powerful and resists being put in a box, which is just what she intended. 

Originating in New Orleans, Tank and The Bangas have all the qualities that relates them, to the city that birth them but a flair that separates them as well. Their performances range from being "One of the most energetic shows you'll ever see" to "A gospel tent in Mississippi". Rummaging through their sound like a thrift store hippie, you'll find the Bangas to provoke a musical reference of Rhythmic Soul and Spoken word among other genres such as Rock, Gospel, Funk, and Folk. Combining the various musical techniques among the Bangas, coupled with the instilling play on lyrics from the lead vocalist; Tank and The Bangas have quilted a unique sound that singles them as one of the most distinctive groups to come out of New Orleans. 

Tank and The Bangas has graced the cover of one of New Orleans most recognized magazines, "OffBeat" and recently won band of the year at the New Orleans Big Easy Awards. The group has opened for acts such as LiAnne LaHavas, PJ Morton, Galactic, Big Freedia, The Revivalist, and The Soul Rebels. Tank and The Bangas are sure to give you an experience you won't forget.

They are winners of NPR's 2017 Tiny Desk Contest. The group also includes former American Idol's contestant Anjelika 'Jelly' Joseph.

Robin Barnes

With a voice that is as powerful with a whisper as it is with a bellow, contemporary New Orleans jazz singer Robin Barnes is here to stun audiences.

Robin grew up surrounded by jazz sounds, as made evident by a #5 debut on the Traditional Jazz Albums Billboard charts in 2016, but her current sound, Robin Barnes & the Fiya Birds, is more Chaka Khan meets Ella Fitzgerald.

“Growing up, all the children at my church were encouraged to join choir,” says Robin. “The first mass after my mom made me join (yes, she made me), I was given a solo in ‘Ave Maria.’ I closed my eyes and sung my heart out and when I opened them, I only looked at my mother. She was crying along with the rest of the congregation. That’s when I realized how moving music was, and that I wanted to sing for the rest of my life.”

-Robin Barnes

As Robin got older and mainstream music began to take hold, she began to marry the old and the new to create her own unique blend of funky jazz, soul and R&B. By captivating audiences with her renditions of popular songs and contemporary classics, she makes each song her own. 

She’s appeared on ESPN, BET, NCIS and more. She has also been featured in publications like Forbes, Southwest Magazine, Travel & Leisure, Marie Claire and Southern Living. In addition to being an award winning artist, she’s also one of the city of New Orleans’ biggest ambassadors, and she proudly carries the official distinction of the “Songbird of New Orleans.” 

RobinBarnesMusic

Mia Borders

Born and raised in New Orleans, Mia Borders’ powerhouse vocals and charismatic songwriting have made her a perennial figure in the regional music scene.

Heralded locally and nationally as one of the city’s best talents, Borders has been featured on AXS.tv’s coverage of The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and has performed at such renowned venues as Essence Festival, Brazil’s Bourbon Street Music Festival, House of Blues New Orleans, Tipitina’s, Santa Cruz Blues Fest, Chattanooga’s Night Fall, Voice of the Wetlands, Memphis’ Levitt Shell, Wakarusa, Long’s Park Amphitheater, 2012 Food & Wine Classic, and The Kennedy Center for Performing Arts. She has shared bills with B.B. King, Corinne Bailey Rae, Lee Fields, and Marc Broussard, among others.

Her live shows are regularly praised as “deeply funky” (USA Today) and “confident and cool” (The Times-Picayune). Borders herself is “a chanteuse of the highest order” with “miles of style and charisma” (AXS.com). 

Her expansive catalogue includes two EPs, various live albums, two singles, and six LPs – including 2016’s “completely authoritative” Fever Dreams (Offbeat Magazine).

MiaBorders.com

Tanya Boutté

Tanya Boutté; a member of the musical Boutté clan that includes Lillian and John Boutté sings a soulful mix of R&B, jazz, and gospel with an authority few other vocalists can lay claim to. A New Orleans native, Tanya grew up performing. A member of New Orleans Boutté clan with all its musical talents, she learned to sing as she learned to walk.

  

Tanya found the spotlight and developed her unique style and interpretations with a passion found in New Orleans musicians who not only know the ropes they feel them and use them to spell bind listeners. She began her public performances with the J.F. Kennedy Senior High School Gospel Choir, and soon became a mainstay with the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

  

Matching her expansive vocal range her repertoire includes R&B, Jazz, Gospel, Top-40, reggae and Motown. She has opened for and performed with musical legends: Latimore, Shirley Brown, B.B. King, Allen Toussaint, Bonnie Raitt, Harry Connick Jr, Leroy Jones, Craig Klein, Mark Braud, Walter Wolfman Washington, Wendell Brunious, and of course, Lillian and John Boutte.

  

Her dynamic presentation and stage presence has endeared her audience around the world. She is a regular at international music festivals including Ascona Jazzfest Switzerland, Slida Jazzfest Norway, Tuna Festival, Denmark, and The Gospel United Tour, England. Her reputation for powerful soul renditions have many a night flowed into the hot sultry air of the French Quarters where she is the new generation ensuring New Orleans always sounds like New Orleans.

 

www.tanyaboutte.com

Tonya Boyd-Cannon

Mississippi-born, Louisiana-raised singer-songwriter and soul artist Tonya Boyd-Cannon is no stranger to the music scene. The daughter of a preacher, she has been singing since she was a child. Although most of her musical training came by way of high school and middle school band directors, auditory and observation, Boyd-Cannon is a classically trained vocalist studying vocal performance in college. She says of her musical background, “I love to sing. Whether I’m singing jazz, funk, classical, rock, gospel, reggae or neo-soul, I perform like it’s my last time. I try to use all my gifts to my fullest potential.” She continues, “I believe I have grown so much as an artist. My songs are really about me sharing my love of music and my soul with other music lovers. I am extremely excited and dedicated to music and musician-ship.” As an artist, Boyd-Cannon plays piano, organ, drums and saxophone. 

Boyd-Cannon got her professional start as a background vocalist for Jean Knight, best known for her 1970’s hit single, “Mr. Big Stuff”. Boyd-Cannon’s professional career also includes work as a music vocal coach, educator, creative arts teacher and minister of music. Additionally, Boyd-Cannon is credited with creating the first, combined male and female mass choir in the Orleans Parish prison. She states, “In working with inmates I made it clear, ‘I’m not the judge and jury. I’m not here to convict you or condemn you. I’m here to help you and to revitalize you.’” Clearly, these words of inspiration are strongly reflected in her artistry as a performer, composer and writer.

Boyd-Cannon’s fairly rare contralto voice, almost identical to that of a countertenor, pushes the envelope with amazing musical arrangements and jazzy lyrical content. Her current single “No Approval” is the self-validating anthem for the new millennium. Boyd-Cannon states, “This is a song of self validation! I lived my life for everybody else. I took their opinions over mine. The decisions that I made were theirs, not my own and now I’ve found myself. I loved myself. I approved of myself and put the stamp of approval as Tonya Boyd-Cannon.” Her international single “In New Orleans” captures the true heart of the city. The catchy chorus is in your head long after the song is over. Even if you have never visited New Orleans, Boyd-Cannon brings the personality of the city to life by using her sultry voice in every description.

Boyd-Cannon’s delivery is sharp yet inspirational; contemporary and authentic. Boyd-Cannon’s combination of sounds and instruments is a vocal kaleidoscope. She strategically blends creative vocals and instrumentation into a fusion of musical gumbo. In 2006, Boyd released her CD Rise My Child. The self-titled single is delivered with innocence and surrender. Boyd-Cannon shows her soulful vocal range, including fresh lyrics and robust harmonies....

In 2012, she performed with the Stooges Brass Band at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Essence Music Festival. Her appearance at Essence Fest, led to an onstage performance with Grammy-Award winning rapper-songwriter, Eve. Boyd-Cannon has performed with Cassandra Wilson, Rhonda Richmond, Danny Glover and many others.

Most recently, she returned home to New Orleans after ranking in the TOP 20 on NBC’s Emmy-Award winning show, “The Voice, where she was on “Adam Levine’s team. Not only did Tonya move the world with her voice, but she also wowed her coach, where he told others on her team to “Do what Tonya does!” Today, she continues to bring her distinctive style to the stage as she shares her musical quest. She states, “Music is a healer. It has allowed me to heal myself and bring vitality and happiness to others. I don’t care which genre it is. It can be the hardest metal rock to the most heart-wrenching ballad; with each lyrical and melodious piece, I will find a peace in the music...” 

Today, Boyd-Cannon is the executive director for the "Rise My Child" Foundation. This foundation has programs for children, ranging from ages 3-18 years old. When Tonya is off stage, she directs the "New Orleans Citywide Youth Choir" and facilitates vocal music workshops worldwide. She believes that GOD is allowing her to do what she loves!

TonyaBoydCannon.com

Gina Brown

Gina is New Orleans' best kept secret....not anymore. Especially since she's become the new face and voice for Louisiana Lottery. She grew up in Mobile, Alabama. New Orleans has been her home base for the past 20 + years.

She first started her career as a Radio announcer for WBLX-AM/FM in Mobile. That's where she started singing commercial jingles. From there her career as a vocalist took flight.

From family functions (which is where it really all started) to wedding ceremonies, underground jazz clubs, outdoor festivals, 5 star hotels and international tours.

On one of those tours she recorded her first CD while on tour in Bangkok in 2002. Self titled "Gina". Currently she has released a CD entitled "G's Spot"featuring her line dance hit the"G-Slide" and a Live CD with her band Anutha Level. She's on several compilation CD's like, Fulton St. Live, The Joints Jumpin, Treasures of New Orleans Christmas and recently finished 2 children's Cd "Grant the Red Bear" and more.

Gina's shared the stage with many artist like, Freddie Jackson, Gerald Levert, Etta James, Pattie Austin, Earl Turner, Fantasia and Ruben Studdard from American Idol.....and let's not forget her favorites, Maze, Bad Company, Roberta Flack, Jon B., Regina Belle, Ann Nesby, the legendary Billy Paul. Her musical style varies from Blues, Jazz, Motown, Pop, Oldies, Hip-hop, Funk, Southern Soul you name it.

Gina's exciting, exhilarating performance has been seen all over the world. Her travels include: Brazil, Taipei, Taiwan;Yokohama, Nagoya, Tokyo, Iwukuni, Japan; Hong Kong, Bangkok, Jakarta, Indonesia and also a tour in the Middle East Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Her performance is guaranteed to be a memorable one for anyone who see her.

GinaBrownOnline.com

LaTosha Brown

LaTosha Brown is a remarkably talented singer/songwriter dedicated to creating music that inspires the world to love more and that motivates people to be more. Her moving and powerful voice is featured on the YouTube video of the traditional spiritual "I Know I've Been Changed." The impromptu video, which debuted on YouTube's Top 100 music chart at #78, received over 1.1 million views in two weeks, and it was featured on AOL's "You've Got..." series.

Ms. Brown is also the vocalist for the Bridge the Gap ensemble that was recently selected as a finalist for the American Music Abroad program sponsored by the U. S. State Department. The American Music Abroad selects American singers and musicians to perform as cultural ambassadors to more than 40 countries around the world.

  

Ms. Brown has been a performer and cultural artist her entire life. At the age of 18, LaTosha and her high school jazz band won a contest that landed her first major performance in front of more than 40K people as the opening act for the Beach Boys. For more than 15 years she performed throughout the south as a vocalist with a cover band called Uneek. During her career she has opened for acts such as Millie Jackson, Roger and Zapp, Bobby Blue Bland, Lenny Williams, Tony Terry and many others.

In 2011, after a seven year hiatus from music, she reignited her desire to write, produce and perform music that reminds people about the extraordinary power of storytelling through song. Her goal is to help heal broken hearts, restore hope, connect people across the globe and spread love around the world.

  

In addition to her musical gifts and talents, Ms. Brown is also an award-winning community organizer, philanthropist and love activist. She is received numerous national awards for her social and environmental activism. In 2011, she was invited to the White House where she was recognized as a White House Champion of Change for her rebuilding efforts in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast Region after Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill.

LaToshaBrown.com

Naydja CoJoe

A native to New Orleans and premier vocalist and entertainer, her eclectic performances evoke the colorful spirit of her hometown and mainstream influences. Her sound is reminiscent of such greats as Tina Turner, Bonnie Raitt, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday and Patsy Cline; touching the very heart of every music enthusiast. It also includes an array of today's hottest hits! 

She has marqueed at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage, French Quarter and Gentilly Festivals and to sellout crowds throughout Europe. She has become a perennial favorite and a must have for corporate events, conventions, private parties and wedding receptions. 

Naydja can now add SAG credits to her name as an actress with principal roles: One, as the daughter of screen and television, legend the late “Della Reese”. Two, as a vocalist in Lee Daniels’ motion picture, “The Butler”.

Her performances are just short of brilliant as they engage guests and get them out of their seats. Her class and energy will leave you in love with her amazing sound. She has become a perennial favorite and a must have for festivals, corporate events, conventions, private parties, and wedding receptions. Naydja CoJoe and her band, the Lagniappe Section, will feed your soul, stimulate your mind, and tug at your heart. --Naydja "Some people never have the opportunity to do the things that they desire most in life. I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to live out my dream."

NaydjaCoJoe.com

Rechell Cook

Rechell Cook is one of the most sought after local female vocalist in New Orleans and the surrounding

areas.

Born and raised in this musical city, to a musical family; she possesses a soulful sound that R&B Diva's are

made of....

Rechell formed her own band, "Rechell and The Regeneration Band" in 1991 and is taking the music world by storm… Performing opening acts for mainstream artist such as Chante Moore, Kenny Latimore and LL

Cool J.

She has performed our National Anthem for professional sporting events and graced the stages of many local major events, such as New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Lundi Gras and the French Quarter Festival (just to name a few of her many accomplishments as an entertainer).

Often compared to the sultry talents of world renown artists such as, Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, and Jill Scott....whether it be a small audience, or a sold out venue; Songstress, Rechell Cook brings to the stage a powerhouse performance of Old School, R&B, Jazz and Blues music that pays homage to some of the greatest artists of our time.

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Denisia

Singer/Songwriter DENISIA has been on the music scene for over a decade with her sexy, sassy, confident and angelic sounds, with catchy lyrics of love, life and happiness. DENISIA ’s music will bring you through an eclectic collaboration of R&B, dance, pop, and inspirational sounds that crossover all genres. In 2015, DENISIA landed her first major placement on Grammy nominated artist Tamar Braxton’s “Calling All Lovers” album which led to many more placements including Juvenile, VH1 & more.

With her unbelievable vocal ability and performance skills DENISIA has been granted the opportunity to open for Llyod, Tank, Melanie Fiona, Lyfe Jennings, Kendrick Lamar, Rickey Smiley and more. She was named BET's Music Pick of the Week and awarded a National Music Award for “Best New Female R&B/Pop Artist.” DENISIA continued to showcase her talents and was allowed the opportunity to open for a plethora of special events, cruises and festivals such as the Jazz & Heritage Festival and much more.

Being a native New Orleanian, DENISIA has a deep connection and appreciation for the culture of her beloved Crescent City. Aside from the food and the Mardi Gras Indians’ News Orleans is also known for “THAT BEAT,” which is a faced paced syncopated rhythm of a song’s tempo that all but forces you to dance. So when she heard this powerful song, “Hello,” by London based artist, Adele, DENISIA instinctively knew she had to turn this ballad into a “bounced out” dance hit.

After teaming up with fellow New Orleanian, Big Choo, known as the “Voice of the Beat” and DJ Blaza, one of the biggest bounce producers in New Orleans, DENISIA’s version of “Hello” has reached over 3,000,000 views and has been featured on all local media outlets as well nationally known social networks.

DENISIA uses her passion for music as a platform to inspire others by creating songs that capture her personal journey through life.

Get her album "HIM" available now on all digital download sites before the release of her new Ep this year.

reverbnation.com/WHOISDENISIA

Erica Falls

Soul singer and songwriter Erica Falls credits her unique vintage sound to her childhood growing up in New Orleans’ 9th Ward, where her parents introduced her to Roberta Flack, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sarah Vaughn, and Whitney Houston. Whether on stage or in the studio, she channels a sassy, soulful tone that recalls an earlier era. But Erica cautions her fans: “Vintage soul is not about bringing the listener back to a time of authentic music, it’s about reminding them that it never went anywhere,” she says.  

Erica’s latest project re-released album 2018, HomeGrown, that she co-produced showcased her vocals, arranging, songwriting talent, and introduced her to a wider audience in the world of neo-soul. Through out her career, Erica has recorded and performed with icons including Grammy®-winner Allen Toussaint, Sting, No Doubt, Joe Sample, Dr. John, Jennifer Hudson, and John Fogerty, among others. In 2013, she was hand-picked by Lee Daniels to star in the lead singing role of the award-winning film Lee Daniels The Butler.

Her show-stopping performances did not go unnoticed; Offbeat Magazine nominated Erica twice for Best Female Vocalist in which she won in 2017 where she was also nominated for Best R&B Artist and Best R&B Album.

Currently, Erica is touring nationally with renowned New Orleans funk band Galactic, and will be releasing a new single early next year 2019. The highly-anticipated original track will definitely showcase her prowess as a singer, songwriter, and live performer.

EricaFalls.com

Michaela Harrison

Michaela Harrison is an international vocalist whose career is rooted in relaying the healing, transformational power of music through song. Whether she’s singing at an intimate gathering or on a festival stage before thousands, Michaela invites her diverse audiences to come inside her musical healing room. Fluent in French and Portuguese, and familiar with Spanish and Swahili, Michaela has an expanded repertoire of world music and renders songs in their original language.

Michaela is based in New Orleans, LA yet spends extensive time in Brazil where she has headlined music festivals, performed at various venues and events and has regular appearances at the Ace Hotel and Café Istanbul. She has toured in Jamaica, France, Germany, Italy, England, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and has recorded with members of Sweet Honey and the Rock, Bill Summers, Kermit Ruffins, and Mother Tongue.

Michaela is as comfortable with a full band, a choir or an orchestra as she is with a guitar or piano as her only accompaniment. Michaela brings the same passion, intensity and sincerity to every setting, offering her music as love medicine for the body, heart and mind.

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Venessa Joseph

Venessa Joseph was born in New Orleans and her musical gifts became apparent at an early age. Venessa began singing at the tender age of 7 yrs old with New Orleans R&B Legend Tommy Ridgely. Her love of music led her to sing with many local bands at 13 at many favored establishments with the aid of her Mother who would allow this without Dad's permission. These little outings led to her receive her first paid gigs leaving her with the desire to further pursue the stage.

Some of her first paying gigs as a teenager took place singing at St. Augustine High School and singing a duet with the soulful Teddy Pendergrass at New Orleans premier performance theater, The Saenger Theatre. Venessa has also been on stage with New Orleans's musicians like Anders Osborne, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Kirk Joseph's Backyard Groove, George Porter Jr., Charmaine Neville, and Dr. John as well as with her own band "Fleur de V". Williams. She has three Grammy credits, has recorded with various musicians and has performed at Jazz Fest for 15 years.

Venessa is married to New Orleans own Sousaphone player Kirk Joseph of the Dirty Dozen Brass Band. She is the current president of New Orleans Women in Music, on the executive board of the famous New Orleans "Dew Drop Inn's" Purple Dog Foundation, and radio host for WWOZ Radio.

Her vivacious attitude and vocal talent has allowed her to be onstage with local, national and international acts, including with Cyril Neville and Tribe 13 performing live in Japan. Her affiliations with many of New Orleans music celebrities and life in the music world led her to join NOWIM (New Orleans Women in Music) in 2009, and in 2012 elected as President of the group.

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Lilli Lewis

Lilli Lewis is known for her powerful vocals and progressive message. The "folk-rock diva" is a sought after featured performer on mainstages across the United States and abroad.

A prolific writer, composer, pianist, and producer, Lilli has appeared as both artist and sideman with elites like Dr. John, Kirk Joseph's Backyard Groove, Little Freddie King, Dash Rip Rock, Gina Forsyth, Sharon Martin, Betty Shirley, and Dr. James Walsh to mention a few.

Lewis and her band have been Regional Finalists for the Mountain Stage New Song Competition as well as Hard Rock Rising Global Band Battle. Notable festival appearances include the National Black Arts Festival, Atlanta's Music Midtown, the Southern Womyn's Music Festival, and various Pride festivals throughout the US.

The daughter of a southern minister and a Chicago reared civil rights activist, her bent towards social justice is reflected in her music and stage show. In keeping with the groundbreaking and pioneering spirit, Lewis is the only female artist on the Louisiana Red Hot Records emerging artist roster alongside Corey Henry, Colin Lake, and Jonathon Boogie Long. Louisiana Red Hot was OffBeat Magazine's 2015 Record Label of the Year and is known for launching and supporting the careers of southern favorites such as Trombone Shorty, Hunter Hayes, and Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk, among others....

Lilli’s scope has definitely broadened. She has integrated elements of the funk rock vibe that was born and bred in the Crescent City. She has also taken a seat among tradition holders, singing lead for Dirty Dozen Brass Band founding member Kirk Jospeh’s Backyard Groove, and running Louisiana’s oldest indie record label, Louisiana Red Hot Records with a catalog that has included Trombone Shorty, Cyril Neville, and Allen Toussaint protogé Roland Guerin. Humbled by the charge to help build something forward thinking and positive for New Orleans and Louisiana musicians, Lewis says her end game is to bring more music industry to the city is while helping artists realize their vision of success. 

Lewis herself has two releases on Louisiana Red Hot Records, her 2016 single “O, Let Your Light Shine Bright” and the 2018 critically acclaimed solo piano album “The Henderson Sessions,” and also available on vinyl.

LilliLewis.com

Charmaine Neville

As the daughter of one of the highly acclaimed Neville Brothers, Charmaine is heir to a rich New Orleans musical legacy but is busy putting her own stamp on this musical heritage. Neville and her band dish out a spicy mix of the best of New Orleans music, from the nastiest of blues to some V-8-driven R & B. Add a funky rhythm and some jazzy ballads, and you've got yourself one helluva Crescent City gumbo!

 

The band, certainly one of the best to come out of New Orleans, is co-led by Charmaine and natty piano wizard Amasa Miller. Devoted fans worldwide acclaim the Charmaine Neville Band. They've played festivals and clubs in cities all over the world including Rome, Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, Zurich, Berlin, Copenhagen, Aukland (NZ), San Paulo (Brazil), Sasebo (Japan) and Barbados. Along the way, Charmaine has appeared with such notables as the Rolling Stones, Dr. John, Bobby McFerrin, Steven Stills, Harry Connick, Jr., and Linda Ronstadt.

 

It's no surprise that the band is a popular fixture at the colorful New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and at clubs around New Orleans. And despite their tight schedule, Charmaine and the band always find time for helping others - playing gigs at the Children's Hospital in New Orleans and at numerous local neighborhood and cultural festivals. They've even played such odd venues as Angola Penitentiary, where inmates raised the money to bring the Charmaine Neville Band to the prison...

Charmaine herself has been described as a crowd magnet, a frisky dynamo, versatile, vivacious, technically impressive. Her talent for comedy, her rhythmic wizardry, her spontaneity, her vocal and dramatic range all make for a spectacular, energetic, riveting presentation. One reviewer claims, "Listening to Charmaine is like swallowing electricity and then washing it down with a roomful of appliances!" · Another writes, "Neville never sings a dull note. She sneers, laughs, swoops high, giggles, scats, glides, talks, and talks again, playing with her words as if trying to catch the music off guard." In her own words, "I'm an entertainer. And make that entertainer with a capital E!"

                                                              

"All music is good music," Charmaine Neville says firmly. "I try to cover the whole spectrum and do just everything. I don't want to be stagnated and stuck in a rut... People ask, 'Oh, what category would you put your music in?' And I say, 'Good!' "Born into the third generation of the New Orleans legendary musical family, Charmaine has nonetheless worked hard to get where she is and make her music known as her own.

The work has paid off -- as one reviewer recently wrote, "Charmaine Neville is beginning to rival her father and uncles in terms of popularity in New Orleans." She started out backing up The Neville Brothers and went on to perform with The Survivors, a band whose alumni list includes Harry Connick Jr. and Bobby McFerrin. Today, Charmaine and keyboardist Amasa Miller co-lead the now five piece band. Fans flock to catch them at their regular gig, Snug Harbor, as well as to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, where the band has become a well-known attraction.

CharmaineNevilleBand.com

Margie Perez

Margie Perez is a vivacious Singer and songwriter specializing in a versatile blend of Blues, Pop, and Latin with a New Orleans Funky touch. Dubbed by Offbeat Magazine as "One of the hardest working musicians in New Orleans" she performs in a wide range of musical acts, most importantly her own band that performs her original music. She is also leader of Muevelo, a hot Salsa band that performs Cuban music. She is one of The Honeypots, a dynamic harmonious girl group, as well as another female collective, The New Orleans Nightingales. She also lends her vocal talents to the Afro-Cuban Sacred music band Moyuba and with West African percussionist Seguenon Kone in Ensemble Fatien and Payo Afrobeat. She tours with The M&M's, a super group including Stanton Moore and Robert Mercurio (of Galactic) and John Medeski (of Medeski Martin and Wood) and Papa Mali (7 Walkers).

She released her New Orleans debut CD, "Singing For My Supper" on Threadhead Records in 2010, which WhereYat Magazine called "a pleasing mix of styles and tempos". More recently with The Honeypots, their 2013 Threadhead CD, "Something Sweet" was nominated for Best Roots CD by "Offbeat" Magazine. She will soon be releasing her next record, "Love Is All", with songs performed with her band plus many other New Orleans musicians she plays well with. 

She has a long list of Festival appearances such as The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, The French Quarter Fest, Congo Square Rhythms Festival, The Freret street Festival, The Voice of the Wetlands Festival, Telluride Jazz Fest, High Sierra Music Fest, and The Radio Indigo Blues Festival in Bangalore India. She is excited to be performing with Meter's guitarist Leo Nocentelli at Jazz Fest this year.

Here's what New Orleans music legend Allen Toussaint had to say about Margie: "Not only is she a great singer, but she's also a great songwriter. She's taking New Orleans music in a direction I've never seen before." He invited her to sing backup for him at the 2007 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. She also sang for the late, great Blues Queen of New Orleans, Marva Wright who said about her, "If you don't know her now, you will."

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Dawn Richard

Dawn Richard, aka DAWN, evolved from her membership in Danity Kane to become one of the more progressive forces in artful left-field pop and R&B. Prior to mainstream visibility, the New Orleans, Louisiana native -- the daughter of Chocolate Milk percussionist and vocalist Frank Richard -- recorded as Dawn Angeliqué. 

The independently released contemporary R&B album Been a While (2005), produced while the singer was attending the University of New Orleans and working as a cheerleader for the NBA's New Orleans Hornets, was released around the time she made her first appearance on Making the Band 3. The third edition of that reality series produced Danity Kane, a group that released two Billboard 200-topping albums, Danity Kane (2006) and Welcome to the Dollhouse (2008), prior to splitting. Then, along with Diddy and Kalenna Harper, Richard became one-third of Diddy-Dirty Money, a short-lived group that debuted in 2009, released an album (2010's Last Train to Paris), and then a mixtape (2011's Love Love vs. Hate Love) prior to ending in 2012.

Richard continued a solo career that developed during and after the split, reunion, and second split of Danity Kane. Her self-released material was progressive and often conceptual, willfully oblivious to genre restrictions as it twisted R&B, pop, and electronic music with emotive and frequently thrilling results. The Prelude to a Telltale Heart (2011), a mixtape, and Armor On (2012), an EP, preceded her second official album, Goldenheart (2013). Part two of her "heart" trilogy, Blackheart (2015), went farther out and topped Billboard's Top Independent Albums chart. Short-form releases for the Fade to Mind and Local Action labels preceded her fourth proper album, Redemption (2016). ~ Andy Kellman, Rovi

On August 10, 2016 Dawn made a cameo appearance on Season 2 of Rosewood (TV series) with Morris Chestnut and Gabrielle Dennis. On September 15, 2016, Dawn began filming the lead role, Joyce, in the 2017 movie "Kinky" written by Jean-Claude Lamarre. In addition to Dawn in the lead starring role, the film also stars Robert Ri'chard, Gary Dourdan and Vivica A. Fox. November 10, 2016 Redemption was made available to stream exclusively on NPR one week ahead of its release. The album was officially released on November 18, 2016. Richard is the first artist to have a USB necklace album. She provides guest vocals on the song "Cool Your Heart" from Dirty Projectors' self-titled album, which was released February 21, 2017.

On January 25, 2019 Richard released her 5th solo album, New Breed.

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Amanda Shaw

Mix a little bit of country and Cajun, with a touch of Rock-n-Roll and Blues, and you have a funky Louisiana flavor that fiddler and singer Amanda Shaw brings every time her high heels dance across a stage. Amanda's passion for her culture is evident in the diverse blend of music she creates with every note she plays.

Becoming a classically trained violinist at age four, Amanda studied music at Southeastern Louisiana University Community Music School, and has been memorizing fans with locally-infused performances for nearly twenty years. As a young child, Amanda was inspired by artists like Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Bonnie Raitt and others that influenced the entertainment industry. Similar to those artists, Amanda made a name for herself by achieving goals and breaking records like becoming the youngest soloist to perform in the Baton Rouge Symphony at the tender age of eight.

Music has been engrained into Amanda’s world for as long as she can remember. That exposure greatly paid off as the Louisiana-raised musician has carved out her place in Cajun culture, and has become one of the most recognizable brands in Louisiana music. From national appearances on the Rosie O’Donnell Show, to once in a lifetime performances with Cyndi Lauper, Amanda’s magnetic presence helped her to build an extraordinary following of fans and supporters....

Amanda’s award-winning music and high-energy performances with her band, The Cute Guys, produce a unique balance of mainstream harmonies with grassroots charm. She continues to master her technique by putting a personal Louisiana twist on performances at festivals and events around the world – locally, regionally and internationally. With regular appearances at iconic events like French Quarter Festival and Jazz Fest, Amanda has become a crowd favorite and a festival staple.

Amanda works extremely hard to give her fans the best she has to offer, and her passion for doing her best has been recognized with prestigious honors and awards throughout her career. The local artist has received dozens of awards including the Big Easy Award for Best Female Entertainer, Louisiana Music Hall of Fame Future Famer, Offbeat Magazine’s Best of the Beat.

Singer/Songwriter of the Year and many, many others. In the past, she has also collaborated with Grammy award-winning musicians, such as Chubby Carrier, and renowned songwriters, including Matthew Gerrard, to give her fans a superior way to experience Louisiana-rooted, world-class music....

Amanda’s fiddle continues to make wonderful melodies as she holds a firm place in music history in a city that delivers harmony like no other. Between the release Good Southern Girl in 2010 and the announcement of her latest EP in 2016, Amanda has invested years fine-tuning her craft by taking part in writing and recording sessions in Los Angeles, CA and Nashville, TN. Amanda also spent some time touring with music industry legends Michael Franti and Spearhead, Steve Winwood, Carlos Santana and others. Amanda’s world travels and opportunities for creative expression have added a deeper dimension to her music and she looks forward to sharing those experiences with her fans as she takes the stage with every performance.

AmandaShaw.com

Irma Thomas

The unrivaled Soul Queen of New Orleans -- a title officially bestowed by local officials is New Orleans' most enduring musical ambassador. "She remains one of America's most distinctive and classic singers, a treasure from the golden age of soul music who remains as compelling and powerful as ever..." says Rounder Records.

HistoryMakers reports, "Blues vocalist Irma Thomas was born Irma Lee on February 18, 1941 in Ponchatoula, Louisiana. She was raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, and attended New Orleans' McDonald 41 public school. Thomas displayed her early vocal talents as a teen. She sang with a Baptist church choir and a gospel quartet at Home Mission Baptist Church. Her very first recording was a school song, which was recorded at Cosmo's studio with fellow classmates. At the age of eleven, Thomas won The Ritz Theater's talent night and two years later, she auditioned for Specialty Records.

Her comeback as a recording artist started in 1986 when she produced an album, The New Rules, with Scott Billington of Rounder Records. Thomas received her first Grammy nomination in 1991. She received her second Grammy nomination in 1998 along with Marcia Ball and Tracy Nelson. In 2006, she received a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album, for After the Rain, 2006; Blues Music Awards, Soul Blues Album of the Year, for After the Rain, 2007; recipient of numerous humanitarian awards for public service work in New Orleans. She has continued to maintain an active recording and touring schedule since.

IrmaThomas.com

New Orleans Women in Music

Opera, Classical and Traditional Jazz

Rachel Jordan

Classical violinist Rachel Jordan who serves as the String Instructor for the Talented Music Program at Jefferson Parish Public School and is a member of the River Oaks Chamber Orchestra in Houston, Texas. Rachel has served as adjunct faculty at Xavier University, Southern University, and Dillard University, Loyola University, and a Professor of Music at Jackson State University. She is also a former member of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in New Orleans. She received both her Bachelor of Music and her Master of Music from the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland where she studied with Berl Senofsky.

Rachel has performed with her siblings for Jazz at Lincoln Center Higher Ground Hurricane Relief Benefit Concert, as well as numerous concerts throughout the United States. Ms. Jordan performs on and is the executive producer of the Marlon Jordan Featuring Stephanie Jordan CD titled “You Don’t Know What Love Is.” In addition, Ms. Jordan co-manages J Group Consulting, a family music management entity.  She also served in both role for Christmas with the New Orleans Ladies of Jazz CD which featured Germaine Bazzle, Leah Chase, and her sister Stephanie Jordan.

Rachel has been a featured performer in numerous solo recitals, most notable the Kennedy Center, the Mozart Festival in Salzburg, Austria, the Music Center of Houston, the Mozart Festival in Washington, D.C. While at Jackson State, Rachel performed, “The Lark Ascending” with Jackson State University Orchestra for the Congressional Black Caucus Inaugural Ceremony of President Barack Obama.  

 

While at Dillard University, Rachel started the Jesse Dent Recital series, which features African American Musicians performing classical music. She also produces the annual "An Afternoon of Classical Music" chamber music series.  She is also the founding director and artistic director of the “Music Alive Ensemble”, a classical and jazz ensemble of musicians, composers, and arrangers. 

RachelJordanMusic.com

Givonna Joseph

Ms. Givonna Joseph is deeply committed to the culture of New Orleans, city of her birth.This is most evident in her concerts featuring the 19th Century classical music of New Orleans Free People of Color, and in her appearance on "Le Grand Tour", a French documentary.

The mezzo-soprano, Founder and Director of award winning  OperaCréole, was recently honored as one of Southern Living Magazine's "Southerner of The Year 2017", along with her daughter, Aria Mason. She was of 5 finalists in the Arts-Based Business Pitch at the 2017 New Orleans Entrepreneur Week, interviewed by The New Yorker, and NPR in promotion of the production of La Flamenca. 

Ms Joseph sang the role of Leonor in La Flamenca, and Marie Laveau in OperaCreole's 2015 production of William Grant Still's Minette Fontaine. 

She was also seen in the role of "Sylvia" in the New Orleans premiere of the new opera "Wading Home, an opera of New Orleans" by Mary Alice Rich based on the novel by Rosalyn Story. The performance starring Donnie Ray Albert was in remembrance of the 10th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. And was Alto Soloist for Messiah with The Symphony Chorus of New Orleans, at the Orpheum Theater.

She has been honored as a standard bearer for Louisiana culture with a profile interview on WWNO Radio/NPR, and as the recipient of the 2012 Louisiana Creole Research Association Recognition Award.

Ms. Joseph has performed with New Orleans Opera in roles such as "Lily" in "Porgy and Bess",one of the three "Abati" in "Manon Lescaut", and and one of the Gossips in Noah's Flood. She is also a member of the professional chorus.

In addition to performing , the multifaceted award winning artist is a private vocal instructor, a Master Teaching Artist with Young Audiences of Louisiana, a teaching artist with New Orleans Opera's "MetroPelican" program, a writer, and public speaker.

Ms. Joseph has performed in concert at such venues as The American Church In Paris in Paris, France and La Chiesa di Santa Susanna in Rome, Italy. She has been a soloist with the William Grant Still Orchestra, the Symphony Chorus of New Orleans, and as a cantor for Blessed Teresa of Calcutta's New Orleans visit. In the 2006-2007 season, she was a chorister with Houston Grand Opera . The creator of "WomanSong", a one woman show, she was also heard as an opening artist for Ray Charles in Concert at Jones Hall in Houston, TX.

Prior to Hurricane Katrina, Givonna served as Music Director/Cantor at St. Rose of Lima Church, and Director of Education for the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

She has served as cantor at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church on St. Charles Avenue, and at many other churches around the city.

Ms. Joseph, a Loyola University alumna, has studied with Charles Paddock, Philip and Ellen Frohnmayer, George Shirley (Metropolitan Opera, University of Michigan), Patricia O'Neill (LSU), and Kathleen Kaun (Rice University). 

The arts advocate is also a member of LA Creole (Louisiana Creole Research Association) and member of American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), and The Louisiana Touring Directory

GivonnaJoseph

Doreen Kitchens

(WGNO) - She plays classic New Orleans jazz and most days can be heard in the French Quarter plying her trade, and while many folks find their way to music by some complex design, how Doreen Ketchens found the clarinet was much simpler.

She was in the 5th grade at Craig Elementary as Ketchens recalled, "I was actually just trying to get out of a history test." (laughs) "And I looked at the sky and said 'God if you get me out of this, I'll do anything', and I kid you not about 2 minutes later the principle came on the loudspeaker and she said anybody interested in joining the band, report to the band room immediately (laughs)."

We have that fateful afternoon to thank for the beautiful tones we hear from Doreen Ketchens, who went on to excel at clarinet, eventually studying at NOCCA and on a music scholarship at the University of Hartford.

How this classically trained artists arrived at playing jazz is also a story that's uniquely Doreen.

"Well it could be some scientific reason or anything like that, but the real I play traditional New Orleans jazz is because I fell in love with a tuba player who played traditional New Orleans jazz (laughs) that's it," says Ketchens.

To this day Doreen and her husband Lawrence Ketchens still manage to share a bandstand. In fact daughter Dorian is a talented drummer who also shares the stage. That jazz would play such an important role in her life isn't, however, all that far fetched. She grew up in Treme.

Ketchens says, "Even before I started playing the music, it was embedded in me. I'd hear it all the time, I'd see it all the time, just a blessing you know"

Certainly we'll see Doreen's Jazz New Orleans band packing them in at all the festivals this year, but she says the streets of the (French) Quarter offer a lot as well.

According to Ketchens, "It's exposure, and it gives us an opportunity to reach youngsters as well, so the music can continue. They don't always listen with a learned ear but it gets in just like when I was a little kid and I was growing up around the Treme, and jazz funerals happened. I wasn't all that interested in them, but they're embedded in me now."

Doreen can be heard most days on the corner of St. Peter and Royal St in the French Quarter

Aria Mason

Aria M. Mason is a professional operatic mezzo soprano and is a founding member of OperaCreole, where she also serves as Production Manager and assistant researcher. She is the owner and artistic designer of Belle Lafaye: Creations by Aria, an online boutique specializing in handmade crafts. She is also a member of the New Orleans Opera Chorus and has been featured in comprimario roles with the company. 

She has more than 7 years experience providing arts education, school administration, community outreach, volunteer engagement, and school culture support to public charter schools in the New Orleans community.

Prior to beginning her professional life, Aria served two years as a corps member and service leader, respectively, with City Year Louisiana. Through her service with City Year, Aria was an integral part of the foundation of the inaugural programs in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and appeared at national City Year events and on national television sharing her personal story of loss and the collective story of post-Katrina New Orleans. 

She is also a member of the American Guild of Musical Artists and the National Association of Pastoral Musicians.

A native New Orleanian, Aria is a graduate of New Orleans public schools and is delighted to be serving her community and its children and to continue acting on her belief in arts education, exemplary leadership, community responsibility, and a commitment to helping all achieve their greatest potential...

Ms. Mason is a graduate of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where she studied voice with Regina McConnell. She received bachelor degrees in History and Music, and was the recipient of the Student Activities Award. At CUA, she was featured in the role of Second Lady in a production of Die Zauberflote, and was in productions of La Traviata and The Tender Land. She is also an alumna of Benjamin Franklin High School and the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. She has been a featured soloist in works by Mozart and Bach at the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis, King of France in New Orleans, and has been featured in concert and recital around the Gulf South.

Aria has continued to show her commitment to the renaissance of the New Orleans community. Through her work on the inaugural faculty at Morris Jeff Community School (and past service as a founding member of City Year Louisiana and as the New Orleans Outreach Coordinator at S.J. Green and Arthur Ashe Charter Schools), she has demonstrated her commitment to work toward providing greater opportunities for success for the next generation of New Orleanians.  

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Original Pinettes Brass Band

Whoever said, "A dream can't become reality" didn't know the Original Pinettes Brass Band.

 

The Original Pinettes Brass Band, World's Only All female Brass Band, was formed by Mr. Jefferey Herbert in 1991. Each member born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, attended St. Mary's Academy High School an all-girl catholic school. Beginning with 16 or more members, the Original Pinettes ended up with not only St. Mary's females but other females around the town.

 

The Original Pinettes Brass Band can be seen at many different venues, such as: The Jazz & Heritage Festival, The Satchmo Festival, The Essence Music Festival, and The French Quarter Festival, just to name a few. They also experienced traveling overseas when they performed in Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara Turkey and Ascona Jazz Fest in Ascona, Switzerland. The ladies also have a long resume around the town for doing parties, wedding, conventions, schools, nursing homes, etc....The band has very much in common with the other male brass bands around the city. The only difference being is the Original Pinettes are all females! The ladies gained more respect when they were crowned the winners of the 2013 Red Bull "Street Kings" brass band blowout competition when they beat three other male brass bands changing the name to Red Bull "Street QUEENS!" The ladies have also performed with Arcade Fire and Katy Perry.

 

Some of the ladies specialize in other careers, also. From college students to a computer tech, some of the ladies are mothers and wives. Nothing will get in the way of these ladies who consider one another sisters. "We're not blood related, we're love related...." says leader, Christie Jourdain. 

 

Riding down the disloyal roads of the entertainment business, the ladies still haven't had a chance to show much of the world their skills. Knocked down so many times, the band remain standing tall and faithful. "Not even Hurricane Katrina could stop us from doing what we love." Said Christie Jourdain of the band. "The band member were misplaced after the storm hit. We were in six different cities, not knowing if everyone (and their families) made it out safely. But now, we are back like you never heard us before! The Original Pinettes Brass Band is here to stay....Thank you, GOD!"

 

Today, the band is still on a journey of becoming the best in the business and to take over this male dominant industry. The Original Pinettes Brass Band dream is to travel worldwide and to show everyone that music definitely is a universal language!

OriginalPinettes.com

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Note: The referenced biographical information and images were compiled from each artist's official website, bio, or the artists themselves and is not the property of The New Orleans Agenda.

#TheNewOrleansAgenda

Join us at the New Orleans Jazz Museum on Friday, March 22 at 7:00 pm for Marlon Jordan Plays the Harlem Renaissance. Jordan will perform the music of Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and others from the Harlem Renaissance era. Tickets are only $16.00, available at the door or online here and include admission to the Jazz Museum exhibits.

Music Alive Ensemble in partnership with New Orleans Jazz Museum (NOJM) presents jazz trumpeter Marlon Jordan in concert on Friday, March 22, 2019 at 7:00 PM at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Mint (400 Esplanade Ave. New Orleans) in “ Marlon Jordan Plays the Harlem Renaissance”.  Jordan will perform the music of Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and others from the HARLEM RENAISSANCE era. 

The Harlem Renaissance was the development of the Harlem neighborhood in New York City as a black cultural mecca in the early 20th Century and the subsequent social and artistic explosion that resulted. Lasting roughly from the 1910s through the mid-1930s, the period is considered a golden age in African American culture, manifesting in literature, music, stage performance and art.

African Americans had endured centuries of slavery and the struggle for abolition, followed by the end of Reconstruction, disenfranchisement and Jim Crow laws which led thousands from the Deep South to head north in search of a new life. By 1920 this GREAT MIGRATION resulted in some 300,000 African Americans having moved from the South with Harlem being one of the most popular destinations for these families, igniting an explosion of cultural pride.

The music that percolated in and then boomed out of Harlem in the 1920s was jazz, often played at speakeasies offering illegal liquor. Jazz became a great draw for not only Harlem residents, but outside white audiences also. No aspect of the Harlem Renaissance shaped America and the entire world as much as jazz with its syncopated rhythms and improvised instrumental solos.  IMPROVISATION  meant that no two performances would ever be the same. Some of the most celebrated names in American music regularly performed in Harlem— Louis Armstrong ,  Duke Ellington ,  Billie Holiday , Bessie Smith ,  Jelly Roll Martin , Fats Waller  and  Cab Calloway , often accompanied by elaborate floor shows. 

Jordan was one of the "Young Jazz Lions" who were signed, recorded and promoted on major record labels. He recorded three impressive LPs for Columbia from 1998 to 1992, For You Only ; named "one of the best debut albums of the year" by the  Washington Post ,  Learson's Return , and  The Undaunted , and one for the Arabesque label entitled  Marlon's Mode  in 1997. His latest album, Marlon Jordan featuring Stephanie Jordan, You Don't Know What Love Is marked the return of an exceptional trumpeter.

"The comparisons of Jordan's style to artists such as Charlie Parker and John Coltrane put him in the upper echelon of jazz history. However, he has the resume and the style that would be hard, if not impossible, for anyone of his own generation to beat".

An accomplished classical musician as well, Marlon has performed solo with the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra, but his true joy is his constant performance in the streets and nightclubs of New Orleans and Brazil.

Marlon took his quintet on the road, joining Wynton Marsalis, Miles Davis and George Benson as a headlining act in a series of JVC Festivals produced by George Wein in Atlanta, Dallas and other cities. They also played in some of the country's top jazz clubs, including the Blue Note and the Ritz, highlighted by a run at the Village Vanguard.

Marlon is the youngest of seven children of musician-educator Kidd and Edvidge Jordan, a classical pianist. As he continued his musical studies, he had the day to day inspiration of Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, and many others to draw on. The young musicians often hung out at the Jordan household where they would practice music with Kent Jordan and take lessons from Kidd. Marlon graduated from the famed New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts.

The Marlon Jordan featuring Stephanie Jordan, You Don't Know What Love Is, CD “…dancing and delicious document reveals a mature artist who sounds like himself. You can hear Jordan's clean, boppish lines laced with power, and an encyclopedic knowledge of the entire jazz trumpet tradition, signed in own unique sonic signature.”

The full CD “features the Jordan family. Stephanie's tone and diction combine Nancy Wilson's razor-sharp diction and phrasing with Shirley Horn's economy. Saxophonist Edward "Kidd" Jordan, a pioneer artist and educator, was instrumental in forming The World Saxophone Quartet is the patriarch. Marlon's older brother, Flutist Kent, also recorded a number of well-crafted recordings on Columbia from 1984 to 1988. The Peabody-trained violinist Rachel is a former member of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra….”

Marlon Jordan Electronic Press Kit

#NewOrleansAgenda

Music Alive Ensemble of New Orleans (MAE) is a non for profit (501c 3) founded in May 2002. MAE is a blend of professional classical and jazz musicians, composers, arrangers and educators living in Louisiana. MAE is dedicated to the ideal that music as art communicates the breadth, passion and intellect of society. Through concerts, artist demonstrations, and teaching workshops MAE provides musicians, composers and arrangers a platform for artistic expression.



The New Orleans Jazz Museum celebrates jazz in the city where it was born. Through dynamic interactive exhibits, multigenerational educational programming, research facilities and engaging musical performances, the music New Orleans made famous is explored in all its forms.

Housed in the historic Old U.S. Mint, strategically located at the intersection of the French Quarter and the Frenchmen Street live music corridor, the New Orleans Jazz Museum is in the heart of the city’s vibrant music scene. Through partnerships with local, national and international educational institutions, the New Orleans Jazz Museum promotes the global understanding of jazz as one of the most innovative, historically pivotal musical art forms in world history.



The Louisiana Museum Foundation (LMF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charitable organization whose mission is to preserve and promote Louisiana’s history and culture by making community donations, grants, and other support possible for the programs and mission of the Louisiana State Museum (LSM). 

The LMF conducts many activities on behalf of or in support of the LSM by raising awareness of LSM’s programs and properties, providing assistance in raising community and other support, and administering funds for collections care, exhibitions, public programming and maintenance of many state-owned historic and other facilities entrusted to the LSM.

NEW ORLEANS – Jazz vocalist Stephanie Jordan will be the closing act for the Hilton Stage in Jackson Square opening day on Thursday, April 11, 2019 from 5:30 to 6:45 pm at the 36th Anniversary French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron . The free festival takes place April 11-14, 2019 . Billed as the world’s largest showcase of Louisiana music, food, and culture, French Quarter Festival will bring regional cuisine from more than 60 local restaurants, 1,700+ Louisiana musicians on 23 stages, and special events that showcase New Orleans’ diverse, unique culture.

“I am excited to return for a second consecutive performance on the Hilton Stage in Jackson Square at the French Quarter Festival. Jazz is America’s most original art form and the festival planners and sponsors are to be commended for keeping this music form alive”, said Jordan.

 

Dubbed “Lady Jazz!” by Audix Microphones, Stephanie Jordan is consistently praised for her poise, elegance and soulful articulation. Jazz critic Sandy Ingram says "She's a singer with poise and pizzazz, with a voice and an appealing look that bring to mind Carmen McRae and Lena Horne." Stephanie's lyrical style has also been compared to her mentor Shirley Horn, and that of Diana Krall while other critics say it's more like living legend Nancy Wilson.

All About Jazz writes, "Her (Stephanie Jordan) tone is crisp, perfect, but not in that polished way that sounds like an opera singer attempting jazz. She is more like a master of technique, yet with plenty of soul."

Stephanie has performed worldwide including the Kennedy Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Marian's Jazzroom in Bern Switzerland, Duke Ellington Jazz Festival in Washington, D.C., and in the presence of the President and First Lady Michelle Obama at the Washington Convention Center. Jordan sang at the inaugural International Jazz Day presented by UNESCO which was celebrated by millions worldwide. Just as she had a decade ago at Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Stephanie Jordan Big helped frame the moment of the evening at " The Power of Community: Katrina 10 Commemoration " with her performance of classic tune "Home" from the Broadway musical "The Wiz" during the commemoration".  

 

Recognized internationally, the Sud Ouest French publication calls her "unbelievably superb." The Washingtonian Magazine labeled her "JAZZHOT."

In addition to Stephanie’s performance in Jackson Square, the Hilton Stage returns with an all-star lineup of New Orleans' most respected artists and culture-bearers including Ellis Marsalis, John Boutté, Leroy Jones, Shannon Powell, Robin Barnes, and James Andrews.

French Quarter Festival is consistently voted ‘local favorite’ while attracting a tremendous out-of-town audience. The appeal is the authenticity: attendees experience a broad range of Louisiana artists from several genres. In 2019 the free festival will feature music from more than 250 acts on 23 stages throughout the historic French Quarter, including 43 new acts. Those making debuts include Galactic, Big 6 Brass Band, Keith Burnstein’s Kettle Black, Lil' Glenn & Backatown, The Royal Teeth, and Magnolia Sisters. In addition, musicians whose performances were cancelled due to inclement weather during the 2018 event were rebooked whenever possible.

French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc., (FQFI) the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest presented by Chevron in August and Christmas New Orleans Style in December. FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans.

For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org .

 

 

Please visit www.StephanieJordan.com to learn more.

NEW ORLEANS – The Music Business Institute (MBI) announced the return of the Cruisin’ New Orleans Car Show as part of Cutting Edge’s NOLA Downtown Music and Arts Festival . Cruisin’ New Orleans is a celebration of antique, classic and hot rod vehicles showcased in the heart of New Orleans’ Downtown Development District (DDD) at Duncan Plaza (across from City Hall) at 343 Loyola Avenue. The car show will take place during the NOLA Downtown Music and Arts Festival on Friday, August 23 and Saturday, August 24, 2019.

In New Orleans, music is more than a cultural expression; it’s also business opportunities and what better way to compliment great music than with hot cars! The NOLA Downtown Music and Arts Festival features free musical performances from local, national, and international acts from places as far as Canada, London, Guadeloupe, and South Africa featuring various genre of music.

The setting at Duncan Plaza; one of New Orleans’ largest greenspace in the DDD is the perfect place for the displaying such fine antique vehicles. Presented by Cutting Edge Music Business Institute, Sylvain Solutions, and hosted by the Downtown Development District, Cruisin’ New Orleans is certain to develop into one of New Orleans’ premiere events.

Car enthusiasts, collectors, and dealers are encouraged to Save-the-Date for participation in this event. Awards and prizes will be given to the top vehicle in several categories. Cruisin' New Orleans Car Show is open to 25-years-old and older vehicles.

Registration details will be posted soon at www.cuttingedgenola.com.

This event is part of 27th Annual Cutting Edge CE Conferences and Events (formerly the Cutting Edge Music Business Conference) which brings together music industry personnel from across the country; including representatives from ASCAP, BMI, ReverbNation, Music Connection, eOne Music, and many others. The four-day conference runs from Wednesday, August 21- Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the InterContinental Hotel.

Started in 1993 as a conference dedicated to educating musicians and music professionals about the latest trends in the music industry, it has evolved into entertainment workshops; the areas of interest covered are the Cutting Edge Business Sessions, Cutting Edge Entertainment Law Seminar, and Cutting Edge Film Workshop. The sessions also includes the NewWorks Showcase for new and emerging artists seeking special exposure to record executives, booking agents, managers and the media.

In addition to the musical acts on the main stages at the festival grounds in Duncan Plaza, there will be musical performances throughout various downtown venues.

It’s an event in the legendary city of music you’ll not want to miss!

Not since Tulane University was located downtown has the New Orleans’ Central Business District experienced such a mix of commerce, art, music and residential growth. From the art, music and culture of the Ogden Museum, the renovations of the Saenger Theater, the Contemporary Arts Center, the new developments of the Hospital District, re-opening of several downtown hotels, the new trolley line and the many developments of the South Market District, “Downtown New Orleans is the Place to Work, Live and Enjoy!”

Come cruise with us as we showcase the best of what Downtown New Orleans has to offer.

Sponsorships and vendor opportunities for food booths, and arts and craft space will be announced soon.

Media contact: Vincent Sylvain

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 504-232-3499

Click here to Join Facebook Group: Cruisin' Cars - Owners & Fans

"Jazz Pilates with Stephanie Jordan"

New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint

400 Esplanade Ave New Orleans, LA 70116

Map venue location

Tuesday, March 12, 2019

Renowned jazz vocalist Stephanie Jordan created Jazz Pilates which is set to the recorded music of major jazz composers like John Coltrane, Kidd Jordan, and Kent Jordan. Stephanie Jordan developed her Jazz Pilates technique after receiving her certification from Wise Body Pilates. Jazz Pilates integrates traditional Pilates and dance movements with jazz to enhance the mind-body-spirit connection. It is a muscle lengthening and strengthening program designed to improve balance and transform the body so that it functions at optimal capacity. 

Jordan believes that the whole fitness movement is too focused on "Buy a membership, join a spa, purchase this equipment and you'll be beautiful." Jazz Pilates participants are able to use what they were born with-their bodies. The New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old US Mint provides the perfect venue to allow French Market District/ New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park visitors to create movements that is beneficial to both physical and mental health-in a mere 45 - minutes to an hour. Participants are introduced to the works of major jazz composers and performers while developing a lifelong physical fitness and emotional wellness through arts and fitness integration.

  

With all of the distractions in the world, the human body naturally retains the basic urge to create movement, to physically "get a lot of stuff out." Jazz Pilates is designed to improve balance and transform the body so patrons may function at optimal capacity while working, playing, or just living life to the fullest.

Please bring your own fitness mat and arrive at least 10 minutes before class begins. 

"Jazz Pilates with Stephanie Jordan"

Through dynamic interactive exhibits, multigenerational educational programming, research facilities and engaging musical performances, the music New Orleans made famous is explored in all its forms.

Housed in the historic Old U.S. Mint, strategically located at the intersection of the French Quarter and the Frenchmen Street live music corridor, the New Orleans Jazz Museum is in the heart of the city's vibrant music scene.

Through partnerships with local, national and international educational institutions, the New Orleans Jazz Museum promotes the global understanding of jazz as one of the most innovative, historically pivotal musical art forms in world history.

Jazz Collection

The New Orleans Jazz Museum's collection is the largest and most comprehensive of its kind in the world.

The Jazz Collection chronicles the music and careers of the men and women who created, enhanced and continue in the tradition of New Orleans jazz at the local, national and international levels. It consists of instruments, pictorial sheet music, photographs, records, tapes, manuscripts and other items ranging from Louis Armstrong's first coronet to a 1917 disc of the first jazz recording ever made. It includes the world's largest collection of instruments owned and played by important figures in jazz- trumpets, cornets, trombones, clarinets and saxophones played by jazz greats such as Bix Beiderbecke, Edward "Kid" Ory, George Lewis, Sidney Bechet and Dizzy Gillespie.

Other artifacts in the Jazz Collection include some 12,000 photographs from the early days of jazz; recordings in a wide variety of formats, including over 4,000 78 rpm records that date from 1905 to the mid-1950s, several thousand 12-inch LPs and 45 rpm records, approximately 1,400 reel-to-reel tapes; posters, paintings and prints; hundreds of examples of sheet music from late 19th-century ragtime to popular songs of the 1940s and 1950s - many of them first editions that became jazz standards; several hundred rolls of film featuring concert and nightclub footage, funerals, parades, and festivals; hundred of pieces of relevant ephemera; and architectural fragments from important jazz venues...

Stephanie Jordan 

"Lady Jazz!"  

"Every so often a new voice stands up and proclaims itself, but few do so

with such supreme depth and understated soul."  

- Ted Panken, Jazz at Lincoln Center Playbill

Jazz Vocalist Stephanie Jordan is a proud user of Audix Microphones!

 Available for Bookings:

Vincent Sylvain

504-232-3499

[email protected]



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