Natalie Merchant, Abena Koomson-Davis

Biography

Abena Koomson-Davis is a dynamic performer, educator, and vocalist known for her powerful presence in both the jazz and activist music scenes. Born and raised in New York, she earned her bachelor's degree from Sarah Lawrence College and a master's in Education Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University. Her early career was shaped by a love of music and social justice, leading her to roles as an educator and as ethics chair at the Ethical Culture Fieldston School, where she teaches ethics and social justice to middle and upper school students.

Koomson-Davis has built a diverse musical career, originating the role of Fela’s mother in the Off-Broadway and Broadway productions of 'Fela!', and serving as lead vocalist for the funk rock band Van Davis for over 15 years. She is also the musical director for the Resistance Revival Chorus, a group dedicated to bringing women's voices to the forefront of social change. Her jazz debut album, 'Where is Love' (2024), showcases her versatility, blending standards from the American songbook with original compositions co-written with her husband, jazz trombonist Steve Davis. Koomson-Davis's recent collaborations include duets with Natalie Merchant on the acclaimed 2023 album 'Keep Your Courage,' where her expressive vocals are featured on 'Come on, Aphrodite' and 'Big Girls.'

Her musical style is rooted in jazz, soul, funk, and gospel, often interwoven with themes of resistance, empowerment, and community. Koomson-Davis's legacy is marked by her commitment to using music as a tool for healing and activism, inspiring both audiences and fellow musicians through her artistry and leadership.

Fun Facts

• Abena Koomson-Davis originated the role of Fela’s mother in the Tony Award-winning musical 'Fela!' both Off-Broadway and on Broadway.
• She has performed alongside legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Carly Simon, and Angelique Kidjo.
• Her debut jazz album, 'Where is Love', features a unique pairing of voice and trombone, highlighting her collaboration with her husband, Steve Davis.
• In addition to her music career, she teaches ethics and social justice at the Ethical Culture Fieldston School in New York.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Steve Davis - Husband and musical collaborator; acclaimed jazz trombonist who co-wrote original compositions with her (Where is Love (2024)) [2010s–present]

Key Collaborators

• Natalie Merchant - Duet partner and featured vocalist on Merchant's album (Keep Your Courage (2023) – 'Come on, Aphrodite', 'Big Girls') [2023]
• Resistance Revival Chorus - Musical director and featured soloist (This Joy (2020), live performances) [2017–present]
• Van Davis - Lead vocalist for the funk rock band (Van Davis albums and live shows) [2000s–present]
• Scapegoat Garden - Member and featured collaborator in multidisciplinary arts collective (Liturgy | Order | Bridge) [2020s]
• Steve Davis - Jazz trombonist, husband, and co-writer/performer (Where is Love (2024)) [2010s–present]

Artists Influenced

• Resistance Revival Chorus members - As musical director, she mentors and inspires the ensemble's singers, fostering activism through music (This Joy (2020), live performances) [2017–present]

Discography

Top Tracks

1. Because I Could Not Stop For Death - Remastered (Retrospective 1990-2005 [Ltd. Deluxe Version])

External Links

• Spotify