Role

:

Performer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

July 28, 1954 in Cambridge, MS

 

Nnenna Freelon is a renowned American jazz singer, composer, and arranger. She was born on July 28, 1954, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Charles and Frances Freelon. Her father was a dentist, and her mother was a teacher. Nnenna grew up in Durham, North Carolina, where she attended Hillside High School. She later attended Simmons College in Boston, where she earned a degree in health care administration. Nnenna's love for music began at an early age. She grew up listening to jazz, gospel, and R&B music. Her mother was a pianist and singer, and her father played the trumpet. Nnenna started singing in church choirs and school musicals. She also took piano lessons and played the clarinet in her high school band. After college, Nnenna worked as a health care administrator for several years. However, her passion for music never waned. She started performing in local jazz clubs and began to gain a following. In 1987, she released her debut album, "Nnenna Freelon," which received critical acclaim. The album featured jazz standards and original compositions and showcased Nnenna's soulful voice and impeccable phrasing. Nnenna's career took off in the 1990s. She released several albums, including "Heritage" (1993), "Shaking Free" (1996), and "Soulcall" (2000). Her music blended jazz, blues, and gospel influences and showcased her versatility as a singer and songwriter. She also collaborated with other jazz musicians, including Ellis Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, and Kirk Whalum. Nnenna's performances were always a highlight of any jazz festival or concert. She had a commanding stage presence and a warm rapport with her audience. Her concerts were a mix of jazz standards, original compositions, and soulful ballads. She also incorporated spoken word and poetry into her performances, adding another layer of depth and meaning to her music. Nnenna's talent and hard work were recognized with numerous awards and accolades. She received six Grammy nominations for her albums "Shaking Free," "Soulcall," and "Blueprint of a Lady: Sketches of Billie Holiday." She also won the Billie Holiday Award from the Academie du Jazz in France and the Eubie Blake Award from the Cultural Crossroads Center in Baltimore. In addition to her music career, Nnenna is also a philanthropist and activist. She is a spokesperson for the National Mental Health Association and has worked to raise awareness about mental health issues. She is also a supporter of the arts and has served on the boards of several arts organizations. Nnenna's music continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world. Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have touched the hearts of millions of fans. She is a true ambassador of jazz music and a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work.

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