Thu Feb 26
Nkwelle is a rising star of her own... The 25-year-old singer somehow manages to sound both solidly in the tradition and like no one else.” — Paul Reynolds, All About Jazz For this performance, Ekep will be joined by: Luther Allison – piano Russell Hall – bass Brian Richburg Jr. – drums
Ekep Nkwelle is a force in today's jazz scene, with a journey from Washington, DC, to New York City. She refined her talents at Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Howard University, and The Juilliard School.
Her captivating voice has earned her collaborations with jazz legends like Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Cyrus Chestnut, and the late Russell Malone. She has also performed on renowned stages including SFJAZZ, NPR's Tiny Desk Concert, Marians Jazzroom, and the Umbria Jazz Festival.
In 2023, she received the Juilliard Career Advancement Grant, nominated by Marsalis, highlighting her artistry. Beyond performing, Ekep supports influential arts organizations including The National Jazz Museum in Harlem and Jazz Houston, and she is one of Jazz at Lincoln Center's latest rising stars.