lori williams

Biography

Lori Williams is an acclaimed international jazz vocalist, music educator, songwriter, producer, musical theater actress, and radio host, with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Born in Washington, DC, on January 22, 1967, Williams began her musical journey at age three, singing in the Children's Choir at Bethlehem Baptist Church. Her passion for jazz blossomed during her studies at Hampton University, where she earned a B.A. in Mass Media Arts and was mentored by influential figures in the university's jazz program. She furthered her education at the Jazz Studies Program at the University of the District of Columbia and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Music - Jazz Studies at Georgia State University.

Williams’s career is marked by a blend of performance, education, and advocacy. She has performed at major festivals and venues across the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, sharing stages with renowned artists such as Oleta Adams, Regina Belle, Eric Benet, and Maysa Leak. Williams is also a dedicated educator, having received numerous honors for her teaching, including the Excellence in Arts and Entertainment Award (2023) and the Vincent E. Reed Teacher of the Year (2010). Her musical style is rooted in traditional and contemporary jazz, with influences from gospel and soul, and she is known for her straight-ahead jazz performances and soulful vocal delivery.

Beyond her own recordings—six independent albums and numerous collaborations—Williams is a prominent mentor to young musicians through artist residencies and her radio program, 'Collector's Choice With Lori Williams,' which highlights women in jazz and emerging talent. Her legacy is defined by her commitment to preserving jazz traditions, empowering women in music, and inspiring the next generation of jazz artists.

Fun Facts

• Williams was nominated for a 2014 Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Resident Musical for her portrayal of Ella Fitzgerald.
• She has received letters of recognition for her performances from President Joseph Biden, Speaker of the House John Boehner, and Senator C. Anthony Muse.
• Williams is the producer and host of the 'Sunday Jazz Lounge' at St. James Live! jazz club in Atlanta, Georgia.
• She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity, and the Recording Academy.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Dr. Effie Gardner - Led the group 'JZAZZ' at Hampton University, providing early jazz ensemble experience and mentorship. (JZAZZ performances at Hampton University) [1980s]
• Robert Ransom - Professor at Hampton University who guided Williams into jazz and influenced her musical direction. (Jazz studies and performances at Hampton University) [1980s]

Key Collaborators

• Chris Davis - Composer and producer; co-wrote and produced singles such as 'Too Late (It's My Time)' and 'Take My Wings'. ('Too Late (It's My Time)', 'Take My Wings') [2022–2023]
• Eli Saitoh - Band leader in Japan; Williams sang and directed choir with 'Eli Saitoh and the Love Tambourines'. (Performances with Eli Saitoh and the Love Tambourines) [Early 1990s]
• Oleta Adams, Regina Belle, Eric Benet, Maysa Leak - Shared stages and collaborated as lead, background, or guest vocalist. (Live performances and studio sessions) [2000s–present]

Artists Influenced

• Lauren V. Highsmith (LAVAHI) - Williams's daughter; inspired and mentored in music and performance. (LAVAHI's solo projects) [2010s–present]
• Numerous jazz students - Mentored through artist residencies, workshops, and private coaching in the US and abroad. (College jazz programs, workshops, and residencies) [1990s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Let's Stay Together (A New Book)
2. Where's That Smile? (Out of the Box)
3. Hold On (Out of the Box)
4. I Like the Way You Talk (To Me) (Out of the Box)
5. Too Late (It's My Time)
6. I Can't Help It (Out of the Box)
7. Baby, Hold on (To Me) (A New Book)
8. Deja Vu (Behind the Smiles)
9. New Day (A New Book)
10. Let's Walk (Out of the Box)

External Links

• Spotify