I grew up to the beats of the streets of Harlem - Blues, Calypso, Jazz, Salsa, Doo-Wop and R&B. I have been mentored and inspired by many.

I remain eternally grateful to my mentors:
Miss Katie James, "Gilly" Coggins, Josh White, Fred Neil, Nat Dixon, "Doc" Starkes, Rich Bartee, John E. Johnson.

Thanks to my vocal teachers:
John Peter David & Ms. Myrna Lake;

and musicians:
"Super Nova", "Lucky" (Peter Des Jardins & Teddy Blackwood), Reuben La Motta, Jerry Harris & Sally Smith, Joe Ramsay, Artie Simmons & The Jazz Samaritians, Bernie Thompson, piano virtuoso.

Inspired by:
Ella Fitzgerald, Emme Kemp, Billy Holiday, Carmen McRae, Koko Taylor, Rahn Burton, Odetta and the Divine Ms Sarah Vaughn.  

I feel I fulfill my purpose as a quintessential vocalist, poet, songwriter and musician.  I live to encourage wholeness, love and spiritual upliftment.  Jazz is the only original American art form.  Jazz opens doors - brings us all closer than language.  Sharing in a heritage of harmony will insure a brighter future for us all.