Biography
Marva Wright, born Marva Maria Williams on March 20, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, emerged as one of the city's most powerful blues and gospel voices. Raised in a musical family—her mother, Mattie P. Gilbert, was a gospel singer and pianist—Wright began singing in church at age nine, often accompanied by her mother. Her early exposure to gospel music and the vibrant New Orleans music scene shaped her distinctive vocal style, blending soulful blues with gospel fervor. Despite her prodigious talent, Wright did not pursue a professional singing career until 1987, when she was nearly forty, initially performing to support her family. Her breakthrough came with a live recording of 'Mama, He Treats Your Daughter Mean' at Tipitina's in 1989, followed by her debut album 'Heartbreakin' Woman' in 1991.
Wright's career quickly gained momentum, leading to national television appearances and performances at major festivals, including the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Her 1993 album 'Born With The Blues' was first released in France before gaining international distribution. Known for her commanding stage presence and emotive delivery, Wright was celebrated as the 'Blues Queen of New Orleans.' She collaborated with a wide array of artists and contributed backup vocals for luminaries such as Allen Toussaint, Fats Domino, and Aaron Neville. Wright's later work, including the 2007 album 'After The Levees Broke,' reflected her resilience in the face of personal loss, notably the destruction of her home during Hurricane Katrina.
Marva Wright's legacy endures through her recordings and the indelible mark she left on the New Orleans music community. She passed away on March 23, 2010, at the age of 62, remembered for her passionate performances and her role in preserving and advancing the blues and gospel traditions of her hometown.
Fun Facts
- Marva Wright did not become a professional singer until she was nearly 40 years old, having previously worked as a school secretary.
- Her home and all her belongings were destroyed during Hurricane Katrina, an experience she addressed in her 2007 album 'After The Levees Broke'.
- She performed at both the 2008 Democratic and Republican National Conventions as part of the Louisiana Wetlands All Stars.
- Wright was affectionately known as the 'Blues Queen of New Orleans' and was honored as an 'Honorary Muse' by the Krewe of Muses in 2008.
Associated Acts
- Marva Wright & The BMW's
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Mattie P. Gilbert - Mother, gospel singer and pianist who accompanied Marva in church and on early recordings (Early church performances, 'I Walk With The King') [1950s-1960s]
- Mahalia Jackson - Family friend and early influence; renowned gospel singer whose style influenced Marva's vocal approach (General stylistic influence) [1950s-1960s]
Key Collaborators
- Allen Toussaint - Provided backup vocals for the legendary New Orleans musician and producer (Live performances, studio sessions) [1990s-2000s]
- Aaron Neville - Sang backup for the iconic New Orleans vocalist (Live performances, studio sessions) [1990s-2000s]
- Fats Domino - Provided backup vocals for the rock and roll pioneer (Live performances, studio sessions) [1990s-2000s]
- Louisiana Wetlands All Stars - Performed together at the 2008 Democratic and Republican National Conventions (Live performances at national events)
Artists Influenced
- Emerging New Orleans blues and gospel singers - Inspired a new generation of local musicians through her performances and recordings (General influence on New Orleans music scene) [1990s-2010]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Marvalous | 1995 | Album |
| Blues Queen of New Orleans | 2008-01-01 | Album |
| Heartbreakin' Woman | 2008-01-08 | Album |
| Bluesiana Mama | 2001-10-01 | Album |
| Glitter Queen | 2009-04-13 | Album |
| After The Levees Broke | 2007-05-08 | Album |
| Marva Wright............... | 2001-10-01 | Album |
| I Still Haven't Found What I Am Looking For | 2001-10-01 | Album |
| Do Right Woman: The Soul Of New Orleans | 1993-01-01 | Album |
| My Brother's Blues | 2017-09-15 | Album |
| When She's Gone | 2016-02-14 | Album |
| My Christmas Song | 2008-01-01 | Album |
| After the Levees Broke | 2007-12-12 | Album |
| Bluesiana Mama | 2007-10-02 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Shake a Hand (Marvalous)
- Built for Comfort (Blues Queen of New Orleans)
- Mr. Big Stuff (Ultimate New Orleans)
- I'll Fly Away (with Susan Tedeschi, Marva Wright & Preservation Hall Jazz Band) - Live (Live in New Orleans)
- Hearbreakin' Woman (Blues Queen of New Orleans)
- How I Got Over (with Marva Wright) - Live (Live in New Orleans)
- Pity on This Lovesick Fool (When She's Gone)
- Heartbreakin' Woman (Heartbreakin' Woman)
- Bluesiana Mama (Blues Queen of New Orleans)
- Bring It On Home To Me (I Still Haven't Found What I Am Looking For)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Marva Wright has been played 22 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.