Lori Williams – The Art of Grace, Soul, and Song
Acclaimed international jazz vocalist Lori Williams brings over 30 years of experience as a performing artist, music educator, songwriter, producer, musical theater actress, radio host, business owner, and artist-in-residence. Her artistry blends deep musical expertise with a vibrant and versatile career, captivating audiences worldwide with her expressive voice and sophisticated style.
A native of Washington, D.C., Lori Williams has shared the stage with jazz luminaries including Nathan East, Stanley Clarke, Maysa Leak, and Najee, among others. Her ability to blend classic jazz sensibilities with contemporary grooves has earned her recognition as one of today’s most versatile and expressive vocalists....
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Lori Williams – The Art of Grace, Soul, and Song
Acclaimed international jazz vocalist Lori Williams brings over 30 years of experience as a performing artist, music educator, songwriter, producer, musical theater actress, radio host, business owner, and artist-in-residence. Her artistry blends deep musical expertise with a vibrant and versatile career, captivating audiences worldwide with her expressive voice and sophisticated style.
A native of Washington, D.C., Lori Williams has shared the stage with jazz luminaries including Nathan East, Stanley Clarke, Maysa Leak, and Najee, among others. Her ability to blend classic jazz sensibilities with contemporary grooves has earned her recognition as one of today’s most versatile and expressive vocalists.
Over her distinguished career, Lori has received numerous honors for her contributions to music and education, including the 2025 South Arts Jazz Road Award, the Atlanta Chapter of the National Hampton Alumni Association’s 2023 Excellence in Arts and Entertainment Award, Outstanding Music Teacher (Teaching Music, October 2000), the 2007 Superintendent’s Arts Teacher of the Year, and the 2010 Vincent E. Reed Teacher of the Year. She was nominated for a 2014 Helen Hayes Award as Outstanding Lead Actress in a Resident Musical for her portrayal of Ella Fitzgerald. Her performances have earned accolades from public figures, including a personal letter from President Joseph Biden, who wrote that Lori Williams has “the voice of an angel…absolutely amazing”, as well as recognition from Speaker John Boehner and Senator C. Anthony Muse.
Immersed in jazz from an early age, Lori earned a B.A. in Mass Media Arts from Hampton University, attended the Jazz Studies Program at the University of the District of Columbia, and is currently completing her Master’s degree in Jazz Studies at Georgia State University. She hosts the weekly radio program “Collector’s Choice With Lori Williams” on JazzRadioWETF.org, highlighting women in jazz, the international scene, and young performers committed to the traditions of the music. Lori is also the producer and host of Sunday Jazz Lounge at St. James Live! jazz club in Atlanta, Georgia.
Experience the warmth, spirit, and sophistication of Lori Williams — a true voice of contemporary jazz whose every note tells a story of heart, hope, and humanity.
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