International Recording Artist, Lori Williams, The Voice, The Talent, The Class, The Straight-Ahead Jazz! She’s Simply Phenomenal!   

 Interview by: Gina Sedman

International recording artist Lori Williams is known for her phenomenal talent as a vocalist and straight-ahead jazz performer. Lori is such a gracious and classy woman. She is humble and kind-natured. Speaking with this talented woman of jazz was a delightful experience. I love her voice, and most of all, I admire how she represents herself in the music industry. She sets a strong example of how women should carry themselves in this business musically and through good character.   

Lori Williams is a renowned international Jazz vocalist who possesses an outstanding repertoire of skills. She has over 30 years of experience as a performing artist, music educator, songwriter, producer, actress, radio host, and owner of PositiveMusicPM.org. She has performed at music festivals throughout Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Slovenia, Russia, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Ukraine, Japan, and the British Virgin Islands as part of her vocal jazz tour. Lori has also mentored and worked with students on college campuses worldwide. 

She is a highly accomplished vocal music educator and private vocal coach who has received numerous honors for her contributions to the arts. She was recognized with the Excellence in Arts and Entertainment Award by The Atlanta Chapter of the National Hampton Alumni Association in 2023, named Outstanding Music Teacher in the October 2000 issue of Teaching Music, awarded the 2007 Superintendent's Arts Teacher of the Year, and honored as the Vincent E. Reed Teacher of the Year in 2010. 

Ms. Williams was nominated for the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Resident Musical category at the 2014 Helen Hayes Award for her portrayal of Ella Fitzgerald. Her exceptional performances have earned her letters of recognition from President Joe Biden, Speaker of the House John Boehner, and Senator C. Anthony Muse. A personal letter from President Biden praised Lori for her talent and called her voice "the voice of an angel... absolutely amazing". 

She holds a B.A. in mass media arts from Hampton University and has been a fan of traditional jazz all her life. On JazzRadioWETF.org, she hosts a weekly program called “Collector's Choice With Lori Williams,” where she discusses women in jazz, the international scene, and young musicians dedicated to jazz traditions. At St. James Live, Lori also hosts and produces Sunday Jazz Lounge! Jazz club in Atlanta, Georgia. I enjoyed talking to Ms. Williams about her life in music and a few additional bits. Here's what she shared about her life in music. 

Lori Williams, it is an absolute honor to interview you today. I stumbled upon your music on social media and was blown away by your amazing voice! After listening to you sing, I wondered why I hadn't heard of you.   

I watched your live performance with my husband, and I was awestruck when you started scatting. Your style is reminiscent of Anita Baker, and the way you flow into your music is just effortless. Your voice is simply beautiful, and you are gorgeous. I knew I had to interview you after listening to your outstanding performance. Thank you. 

It's a pleasure to speak with you. Can you tell me where you were born and where you currently reside? I was born in Washington, DC, but now I live in Atlanta, GA.  

After moving from DC to Atlanta, have you noticed any differences in the music scene? I'm familiar with the music scene in DC because I was a part of it for nearly 50 years, particularly in the jazz community. When I moved to Atlanta, I had to start from scratch and find my own tribe and circle. 

However, I believe that having a sense of community is essential, and I'm glad to say that I've found that in Atlanta. I don't see much difference between the two cities in terms of the music scene, except that you need to be open and available to whatever the scene is. 

Yes, absolutely. Does DC have a more vibrant jazz scene than Atlanta? Wow, the jazz scene is thriving everywhere, especially for the type of music I mainly do, straight-ahead jazz. When I travel to Europe, I sing straight-ahead jazz, but in the US, I sing more modern or popular jazz. So, the jazz scene is quite diverse and prominent everywhere. 

I completely agree. Ms. Williams, could we delve into your childhood now? When did your interest in jazz music first develop? Who were your inspirations? At age three, I joined the Children's Choir at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Washington, DC. Eventually, I aged into the Gospel Choir. However, my love for jazz developed when I was a student at Hampton University in Hampton, VA.  

While working as a jazz programmer and on-air DJ personality at the university's radio station, I got the opportunity to be a part of a group called "JZAZZ," led by Dr. Effie Gardner. Robert Ransom, an outstanding professor who has since passed, also greatly influenced and guided me into the genre of jazz. So, it was at Hampton University where my love for jazz truly flourished. 

I noticed a beautiful piano behind you. Do you play the piano or any other instruments? I used to work as a music teacher in the DC public school system, where I led the music department for many years. I’ve taught professionally for over 27 years.  

During my time there, I had award-winning choirs. As a music teacher, it's important to be able to accompany yourself, so I consider myself a functional pianist and tend to hire someone else to play when I need to. However, teaching voice is my forte. 

That’s impressive. Have you ever been interested in learning to play other instruments besides the piano? I have always had a fondness for the guitar and own one, but I haven't had the chance to really dive into it. I took a guitar class when I was teaching in Washington, D.C., which lasted for about two years, but unfortunately, I didn't continue practicing it after leaving the school system.  

I understand your situation. I can relate to it when it comes to playing my bass guitar. I haven't been able to play it as much as I want because whenever I decide to pick it up, something else comes up that needs my immediate attention, and I have to put it off again. This has been the story of my life so far. However, I aspire to practice more and become proficient in playing it because I love the bass guitar. Thank you for sharing your experience with me. Are you currently teaching private music lessons and performing professionally? Singing is my full-time gig. I taught in the DC public school systems, moved to Georgia, and devoted this opportunity to pursuing my career full-time. I still teach privately, but I use Zoom to reach my audience.   

Great! Who are some of the notable artists you have had the opportunity to work with besides yourself? Since I began working in the industry, I've been blessed to work with Nathan East, Phil Perry, Maysa, Stanley Jordan, Stanley Clark, George Duke, David Archuleta, and many other incredible world-renowned and notable artists. I have had many incredible opportunities to collaborate with talented people throughout my 30-year career.  

As a highly regarded jazz artist who frequently travels abroad, have you ever learned or performed in languages other than English? Yes, I try to learn German as I frequently travel to Austria and Germany for my yearly tours. Additionally, I took French in school, so I sing "Autumn Leaves" in French, but that's pretty much it. 

Wow! I'm sure you sound just as lovely singing songs in other languages as you do in English. Thank you for your kind words.   

Of course! I have a question for you. Have you ever sung "500 Miles High"? No, I haven't.  

That song is quite challenging, but I have no doubt you can do it. I'm sure you will sound beautiful singing it. I'll keep scrolling through YouTube; maybe one day, I'll hear you singing it. I'm going to add it to my repertoire. 

I'm looking forward to hearing you sing it. "Ms. Williams, can you tell me what's the most complicated song you've ever had to learn?" Ms. Williams replied, "Wow, that's a great question. One of the most complex songs I've had to teach was a classical piece when directing my students. Because of my family's Louisiana roots, jazz is ingrained in our culture. Jazz is inherently familiar to me. There are some complexities and challenges when learning anything new - like new material to perform. 

 I've worked on six projects and collaborated with many other artists, but I don't see it as a challenge because "it's just who I am." 

How did you start your professional career and get from point A to point B? I embarked on my music journey at Hampton University, and after that, I worked at Capitol Records. Later, I moved to Japan, where I worked with Eli Saitoh who had a group called “Eli Saitoh and the Love Tambourines."   

While in Japan, I directed the choir and sang with Eli's group. When I returned to the United States, a group named "Collaboration," whom I had known for a long time, invited me to perform at the "Capital Jazz Fest," which helped to launch my career. 

In 2010, I decided to record my own CD. My career as a jazz singer took off through connecting with different artists. I am grateful for the unexpected blessings that came my way.  

Previously, I used to perform background vocals on the "Capital Jazz Cruise." This allowed me to meet many different artists. After the cruise, they would invite me to perform with them whenever they came to Washington, DC, or anywhere else on tour. I learned that the key to getting opportunities to work with other artists is through your connections. 

Networking and building positive connections in your industry is crucial for music career success. However, it's important to establish good relationships since not all connections can benefit your career. I'm glad you have surrounded yourself with supportive and well-intentioned people who have helped you achieve wonderful things. Moving on to your latest single, "Take My Wings," let's talk about it. Yes, the lyrics were written by me, and the music was composed by Chris Davis from Connecticut. We previously collaborated on a single called "Too Late (It's My Time)," which has a video available on YouTube. The song empowers women to believe in themselves and emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment. "Take My Wings" was inspired by my late parents' words, as I wanted them to be proud of my music. The song encourages me to keep going and to soar, no matter what obstacles come my way. 

Many talented artists and musicians often venture into acting. Ms. Williams, have you ever considered acting for film and TV? "I have had the opportunity to share the musical theater stage with artists like TC Carson, a well-known actor, and Roz White, who plays Tina Turner's mother in "Tina" the musical. I received a Helen Hayes nomination for my role as Ella Fitzgerald in a musical in Alexandria, VA. So, yes, I have had my share of stage, and I am excited to continue pursuing musical theater. Regarding TV work, I have recorded primarily voiceover work for commercials. 

That's great! Do you think you'll do more Broadway shows in New York or elsewhere? When I was younger, I had a desire to perform on Broadway and went to New York for a table read. During the audition, they asked me to play a specific character and played a tape of the song they wanted me to perform. It turned out to be me singing on the tape, which was quite hilarious. Unfortunately, the play never happened. But I believe that timing is everything. 

That's both hilarious and awesome at the same time! I love it! Let's talk about your upcoming projects. Your latest single, "Take My Wings," is phenomenal. I was so impressed that I wanted to inquire about any new work that you might be creating. Thank you. Yes, I have completed six independent CDs and two singles and worked on CDs for many other artists. Currently, I'm collaborating on a new CD in the studio with a jazz group based out of Austria. We're also collaborating with a few people here in the States on some music projects. So, I'm looking forward to working on my project. 

Awesome. What do you love about music travel? Whenever I travel to Europe, I enjoy the idea of being transported to a place with a completely different culture and language. Meeting new people and sharing my music with them is always exciting.  

Regarding traveling and doing official music business, I have a few favorite destinations. While in Japan, I visited many amazing places, including downtown Tokyo and different prefectures. 

While in Europe, I love exploring the countryside. The mountains and valleys with the sunflowers are breathtaking. I also appreciate the magnificent architecture, such as the Saint Stephens Cathedral in Vienna. Overall, you can find beauty everywhere you go. 

Are you planning on coming to the UK anytime soon? I have not yet had the chance to visit the UK, but my song has reached #3 on the UK Soul Chart, and I would be thrilled to perform there. Ronnie Scott's or Pizza Express would be fantastic venues for me to perform at in the near future.  

Great! I had the opportunity to perform with “Oli Silk” when he visited the United States. He is from the UK. I am scheduled to be in Europe next year in June. 

I love it! The Jazz Café in London would also make an excellent venue for seeing your fantastic show. Thank you. I’d love the opportunity to perform there!  

My pleasure. Before we wrap up, do you have any positive advice for those new to the business and trying to figure it out? If so, please share something with them to encourage them. I have a saying that I always go by, and that is, "Words are powerful, speak wisely." In this industry, it's important to be extremely cognizant about how we engage with others, and we must choose our words carefully so that we represent ourselves in a positive light. No matter where I go, I always strive to spread positivity and uplift the audience through music. Remember, words are powerful, speak wisely. 

Awesome. That was beautiful and those were wise words indeed. You know what? Having the opportunity to speak with you was an absolute blessing. I pray that God continues to bless the work of your hands, be it done according to His will for your life. May He protect your family and keep you safe as you travel, and may He send trustworthy people of integrity into your life who have your best interests at heart. May God bless you abundantly. I am proud of all your achievements and will always be here cheering you on from the sidelines. You are an inspiration, and I wish you many blessings. Many blessings to you. Thank you 

You're welcome. Many blessings to you. Thank you 

END OF INTERVIEW

The following are Lori Williams' additional working credits (as listed on her website) https://www.lorijazz.com/bio 

For over 30 years, Lori Williams has had the privilege of working as a lead, background, studio session, and guest vocalist for many notable artists, Oleta Adams, Yolanda Adams, Nikita Agafonov, David Archuleta, Marcos Ariel, Rob Bargad, Regina Belle, Eric Benet, The Blackbyrds, Michael Bowie, Willie Bradley, Karen Briggs, Norman Brown, Tom Browne, Peabo Bryson, Chuck Brown, Wayne Bruce, Jerry Butler, Jonathan Butler, West Byrd, Paul Carr, Terri Lyne Carrington, TC Carson, Gene Chandler, Renato Chicco, Stanley Clarke, Nick Colionne, Collaboration, Michael Colyar, Adrian Crutchfield, Chris "Big Dog" Davis, John Davis, John Di Martino, Will Downing, Joris Dudli, George Duke, Nathan East, Rodney M. Edge, Troy Sol Edler, Kevon Edmonds (After 7), Jorel "JFLY" Flynn (HBIYD), Derrick Gardner, James Genus, Jazmin Ghent,  Tres Gilbert, Savion Glover, Chelsey Green, Slide Hampton, Winard Harper, Christian Havel, Walter Hawkins, Norbert Heger, Howard Hewett, Dr. W. Weldon Hill, Tony Hightower, Corcoran Holt, William Hubbard, Daryl Hunt, Jessy J, Al Johnson and The A-Team, Allyn Johnson (Divine Order), Marcus Johnson, Stanley Jordan, Michael Keul, Kindred the Family Soul, Ben E. King, James King, Anatoliy Kirnichnyy, Antoine Knight, Yishai Knoll, Saltman Knowles Group, Ignat Kravtsov, Rayshun LaMarr, Lavahi, Evgeny Lebedev, Lisa Levine, Dee Lucas, Timmy Maia, Alex Malheiros (Azymuth), Jimmy Masters, Maysa  Leak, Daniel McClain (After 7), Frank McComb, John Paul McGee, Marion Meadows, Najee, Jimmy Masters, Nathan Mitchell, Ed Neumeister, Marat Nikolaev, Milan Nikolic, Julia Nixon, Daniel Nösig, Antonio Parker, Phil Perry, Robert E. Person, Anne Phillips, Benjie Porecki, Lloyd Price, Chuck Redd, Robert Redd, Althea Rene, Anton Revnyuk, Lenny Robinson, Gino Rosaria, Ellie Saitoh and The Love Tambourines, Erwin Schmidt, Brian Simpson, Jae Sinnett, Sylver Logan Sharp, Art Sherrod, Oli Silk, Dick Smith, Jesse ‘JT Jazz’ Thompson, John Toomey, Tony Terry, Unit 3 Deep, Gerald Veasley, Chris Walker, Kevin Walker, Kim Waters, Anthony Wellington, Matthew Whitaker, Roz White, Bernhard Wiesinger (Poysdorf All-Stars), Vesta Williams, Larry M. Wilson,  Angela Winbush, Sherry Winston, Lisa Yves, David Ylvisaker, Frederic Yonnet, et.al. 

BUY MAGAZINE ON AMAZON