Vocalist

Samara Joy, featuring the Pasquale Grasso Trio, Recorded July 25, 2021

Youtube video

Jazz’s newest star, GRAMMY® Award winner Samara Joy, comes to Detroit for the Holidays with her A Joyful Holiday tour. Joined by members of her talented musical family who have shared the influences of gospel, Motown, and jazz across the generations, Samara delivers a sparkling evening brimming with the most time-honored songs of the season. 

At only 24, her voice is wise beyond her years — a reincarnation of Sarah, Ella and Billie, with a special something all her own. She recently won three well-deserved GRAMMY® Awards: Best Jazz Vocal Album for Linger Awhile, Best New Artist of 2023, and Best Jazz Performance. The New York Times praises Samara for “helping jazz take a youthful turn,” while NPR calls her a “classic jazz singer from a new generation.” 

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Samara Joy A Joyful Holiday

Fisher Theatre

With his rich baritone voice and his mastery of the deepest traditions of soul, jazz and gospel, Gregory Porter has established himself as one of America's most versatile and acclaimed vocalists. His artistry and sensitivity is plain to the ear whether he's putting his stamp on beloved standards by heroes like Nat "King" Cole or demonstrating his own writing talents with original songs strong enough to stand with the many classics in his repertoire.

An evening with Gregory Porter

Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall

With her Grammy Award-winning Verve Records debut Linger Awhile, 20something Samara Joy cemented her status as Gen Z’s first jazz singing star. Her voice, rich and velvety yet precociously refined, has already earned her millions of likes on TikTok. In this holiday show, she will be joined by members of her uber-talented family to perform beautiful renditions of the songs of the season for all to enjoy.

Samara Joy: “A Joyful Holiday” featuring the McLendon Family

Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)

The 24-year-old Purchase College grad already has three GRAMMY wins and a chart-topping debut album under her belt. Her voice, rich and velvety yet precociously refined, evokes the greats – Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald.

Samara Joy

Purchase College, State University of New York

With three GRAMMY wins and a chart-topping debut album already under her belt, 24-year-old Samara Joy makes her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next mononymous jazz singing sensation recorded by the venerable Verve Records. Her voice, rich and velvety yet precociously refined, has already earned her fans like Anita Baker and Regina King and appearances on the TODAY Show, The Tonight Show w/Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show w/Stephen Colbert, CBS Mornings, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and more, in addition to millions of likes on TikTok, securing her status as perhaps the first Gen Z jazz vocal star. The New York Times praised the silky-voiced rising star for helping jazz take a youthful turn while NPR All Things Considered named her a classic jazz singer from a new generation.

River Center Performing Arts Theater

Join us at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts for an unforgettable evening with Grammy Award-winning jazz sensation, Samara Joy. As part of the prestigious TD Bank Jazz Series, this event promises to be a highlight of the season. On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 8:00 PM, experience the magic of Samara Joy's voice in the intimate setting of Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker.

At just 23 years old, Samara Joy has captivated the world with her debut album, "Linger Awhile," showcasing her incredible talent and earning her a place alongside jazz legends. With a voice that is both rich and refined, she has garnered acclaim from fans and critics alike, including high praise from The New York Times and NPR's All Things Considered. Her performances on major shows and her viral presence on TikTok have solidified her status as a leading figure in the new generation of jazz.

Tickets for this must-see event start at $45.00, with options for complimentary parking or valet services starting at $25.00. Enhance your evening with dining and drink options available at the venue, along with our preferred restaurants. Group tickets are available, offering discounts and benefits for those attending with friends or colleagues. We strive to make your experience as accessible and enjoyable as possible, with more information available upon request.

Don't miss your chance to see Samara Joy live in concert. Buy your tickets now and become a part of jazz history. For more information and to secure your seats, visit the Broward Center for the Performing Arts website or contact us directly. This event is a celebration of jazz's vibrant future, and we look forward to welcoming you to an evening of exquisite music and unforgettable memories.

The Parker

### Event Description: Samara Joy at the 65th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival

**Event:** Samara Joy - 65th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival  
**Date:** Friday, September 23  
**Time:** 5:30 pm - 6:20 pm  
**Location:** West End Stage Presented by Castoro Cellars

**About the Artist:**
With a voice as smooth as velvet, Samara Joy’s star continues to rise with each performance. Following her victory at the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, she has been captivating audiences with her exceptional talent. Samara is currently working on her debut recording, featuring the Pasquale Grasso Trio.

**Background:**
Growing up in New York, Samara was deeply influenced by her musical family. Her paternal grandparents, Elder Goldwire and Ruth McLendon, led the renowned Philadelphia-based gospel group, The Savettes. Her father toured with the famous Gospel artist Andrae Crouch, filling their home with the sounds of Gospel and R&B legends like Stevie Wonder, Lalah Hathaway, and George Duke.

**Musical Journey:**
Although she didn’t grow up singing in church, Samara was surrounded by inspirational music, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for her musical heritage. She explored her vocal range through middle school musicals and later joined her church choir in high school, eventually becoming a worship leader.

Samara’s first exposure to jazz came during her time at Fordham High School for the Arts, where she performed with the jazz band and won Best Vocalist at JALC’s Essentially Ellington competition. Her passion for jazz deepened at SUNY Purchase, where she studied under jazz masters like Pasquale Grasso and Kenny Washington.

**Achievements:**
Samara has performed at prestigious jazz venues in New York City, including Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, the Blue Note, and Mezzrow. She has collaborated with jazz greats such as Christian McBride, Pasquale Grasso, and NEA Jazz Master Dr. Barry Harris. Her self-titled debut album, released on July 9, 2021, has been praised for its highly original arrangements and timeless quality.

**Join Us:**
Experience the enchanting voice of Samara Joy at the 65th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a young artist destined for greatness.

**Connect with Samara Joy:**
- [Website](#)
- [Facebook](#)
- [Twitter](#)
- [Instagram](#)

Be sure to mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of jazz with Samara Joy!

Jimmy Lyons Stage

Since making her Center debut with sold-out performances that completely wowed our audience (as the Jazz Club Discovery Artist of the 22/23 Season), Samara Joy’s fortunes and fame have only continued to rise and rise!

An Evening with Samara Joy

Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center is thrilled to announce its 2024 Gala, set to take place on Thursday, August 1. This prestigious event will commence with a pre-show reception and dinner, followed by an 8pm performance featuring the talented Samara Joy. The Gala promises an evening of exquisite entertainment and fine dining, making it a highlight of the cultural calendar.

For those interested in attending, Gala packages are available for purchase. For more details on these packages, potential attendees are encouraged to contact Diane Wortis at dianemahaiwe.org or call 413-644-9040 x123. Additionally, options to purchase Gala tickets or a Gala table for 8 are provided through specific links, where purchasers can select Gala as their gift purpose and specify the level and quantity of their Gala ticket or table purchase.

For individuals looking to enjoy the performance aspect of the evening, show-only tickets are priced between $75 to $150 and will be available for sale starting in May.

The Mahaiwe Gala is not just an event; it's a celebration of arts, culture, and community, offering a unique opportunity to support the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center while enjoying an unforgettable evening.

Mahaiwe Gala

Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center

With her Grammy Award-Winning Verve Records debut, Linger Awhile, 23-year-old Bronx native Samara Joy makes her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next mononymous jazz singing sensation recorded by the venerable label. Her voice, rich and velvety yet precociously refined, has already earned her fans like Anita Baker and Regina King, many, many talk show appearances, in addition to millions of likes on TikTok — cementing her status as perhaps the first Gen Z jazz singing star. The New York Times praised the “silky-voiced rising star” for “helping jazz take a youthful turn,” while NPR's All Things Considered named her a “classic jazz singer from a new generation.” In February 2023, she took home two Grammy awards—Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best New Artist.

Gallo Center for the Arts

Born and raised in the Bronx, rising star Samara Joy’s velvety, smooth voice puts her own enchanting interpretation of jazz standards from the Great American Songbook. After winning the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition at the age of 19, she released her debut album Samara Joy. As one of America’s most promising young vocalists, she has already performed in many of the great jazz venues in New York, including Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, The Blue Note, and the Apollo. On her Grammy award-winning album, Linger Awhile, 23-year-old Samara Joy makes her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next jazz singing sensation recorded by the venerable Verve Records.

Stanford University

Still in her early 20s, Samara Joy is already setting the music world ablaze. Her 2022 Verve Records debut Linger Awhile earned her two well-deserved GRAMMY wins, for Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best New Artist — the first time a jazz musician has won the prestigious newcomer’s award since Esperanza Spalding over a decade ago.

Hailing from a family of musicians in the Bronx with roots in gospel, Joy began her journey with jazz at age 17, winning Best Vocalist honors at Lincoln Center’s “Essentially Ellington” competition. Within two years she was a star student of piano legend Barry Harris and bowled over a panel including Christian McBride, Jane Monheit, and Dee Dee Bridgewater to win the 2021 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition.

SFJAZZ Center

Hailing from a family of musicians in the Bronx with roots in gospel, Joy began her journey with jazz at age 17, winning the vocal honors at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington competition. She went on to study with the great Barry Harris and win the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition.

University of Michigan

Join us for what will be a season kickoff concert like no other, with the return of Samara Joy! Following a Savannah Music Festival house concert performance in 2022 and a festival appearance that same year, Samara Joy won Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album Grammy Awards in 2023 and has toured all over the world.

Lucas Theatre For the Arts

Savannah Music Festival fans are already well aware of Samara Joy’s masterful jazz vocals from her performances at the 2022 festival, and at only 24 years old, Joy is already well on her way to becoming a household name. Samara Joy leapt into the national spotlight when her album Linger Awhile garnered her the Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album awards at the 2023 GRAMMY Awards. In more recent news, Samara Joy took home the 2024 GRAMMY Award for Best Jazz Performance.

Spring Fling – A Party to Benefit Savannah Music Festival

Trustees' Garden

Joy returns for a holiday appearance following her sold-out Soraya debut in the 2023 Jazz at Naz Festival. With her grace and ease, the 23-year-old Grammy Award winner takes the stage with members of her talented musical family who have shared the influences of gospel, Motown, and jazz across the generations. With her father, uncle, and cousins, Joy delivers a sparkling evening brimming with the most time-honored songs of the season.

Samara Joy: a Joyful Holiday

Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts

Music has always been a guiding light for Samara, and this musical celebration will present the Bronx native performing well-known holiday favorites with members of her gifted family: Her father Antonio McLendon, uncle Laurone McLendon, and her cousins Tiera Lovell Rowe and Alana Alexander.

Samara Joy: A Joyful Holiday!

Shermerhorn Symphony Center

With her Grammy Award-winning Verve Records debut, Linger Awhile, 24-year-old Bronx native Samara Joy made a compelling case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next mononymous jazz singing sensation recorded by the venerable label. That legacy was cemented when she was named ‘Best New Artist’ at this year’s Grammys. The first Gen Z jazz superstar, Samara’s voice — rich and velvety — has already earned her legions of fans around the world. In this special holiday show, Joy performs with three generations of her family on dreamy, gospel-infused interpretations of Christmas gems O Holy Night, Warm in December and more.

Bass Concert Hall

Samara Joy brings fresh purpose to jazz with her distinct style, charm and dexterity. Her deeply emotive, rich and irresistible sound compels listeners to “focus on the purity of her tone and the purity of the music” (DownBeat). With her classic style that evokes Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan, Samara Joy follows in the tradition of these greats. Don’t miss one of music’s newest stars performing live at Symphony Center.

Symphony Center

At age 23, Samara Joy is already a phenom. Winner of two Grammy Awards and the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, she’s performed with such legends as Christian McBride and Bill Charlap. She possesses a voice that is rich and velvety, yet precociously refined: “The close precision and frothy power of her voice stand out immediately … so does the depth of her comfort within the jazz tradition,” attests The New York Times. With ease and a preternatural assurance,  Joy swings through understated yet powerful renditions of jazz standards.

Lafayette College

Hailing from the Bronx, rising jazz phenom and recent two-time Grammy Award winner Samara Joy is well on her way to joining the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie. Joy, a deeply emotive vocalist, exploded onto the scene in 2019 at the age of 21—often surprising audiences with the power she packs and her “lighter than air” and “understated, swingy rhythm.” (NPR) Joy won her first two Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards.

California State University, Long Beach

Join us for an unforgettable evening of jazz under the stars as Caramoor presents the sensational Samara Joy in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center. This sold-out event takes place on Friday, August 4, 2023, at 8:00 PM in the enchanting setting of the Venetian Theater, a large tent with open sides and seating provided, ensuring a comfortable experience regardless of the weather.

At just 23 years old, two-time Grammy-winner Samara Joy has already made a significant mark on the jazz world with her Verve Records debut, "Linger Awhile." Her rich, velvety voice and refined delivery have drawn comparisons to jazz legends such as Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday, establishing her as a leading figure in the next generation of jazz vocalists. Samara's performance at Caramoor will feature a selection of classic standards, showcasing her timeless sound and irresistible charm.

In addition to her remarkable musical talents, Samara Joy's positive spirit and engaging storytelling have captivated audiences and critics alike, earning her praise from celebrated musicians and appearances on major television shows. Her achievements include winning the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album and the prestigious Best New Artist award in February 2023.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Samara Joy's music in the beautiful surroundings of Caramoor. For those traveling from New York City, a free shuttle service is available from Metro North’s Katonah train station to and from the venue, making it easy to enjoy a night of exceptional jazz without any transportation worries.

For more information about Samara Joy and to stay updated on future events, please visit samarajoy.com.

Samara Joy at Caramoor

Venetian Theater at Caramoor

Bassist Christian McBride was named artistic director of the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Summer Sessions (2000), co-director of the National Jazz Museum in Harlem (2005) and creative chair for jazz for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association (2005). He now serves as artistic advisor for jazz programming at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and as artistic director of the Newport Jazz Festival. From jazz to R&B to pop/rock to hip-hop/neo-soul to classical, McBride is a luminary with one hand ever reaching for new heights -- and the other extended in fellowship. McBride will be joined by Nicole Glover (sax), Ely Perlman (guitar), Mike King (piano) and Savannah Harris (drums).

Christian Mcbride/samara Joy

Mimi Ohio Theatre

The top acts in jazz and more descend on the Hollywood Bowl for two days of incredible music and a whole lot of fun.

Programs, artists, dates, prices, and availability subject to change.

Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival

Hollywood Bowl

At 23, Samara Joy is already setting the music world ablaze. Her 2022 Verve Records debut Linger Awhile has earned her two well-deserved GRAMMY wins, for Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best New Artist — the first time a jazz musician has won the prestigious newcomer’s award since Esperanza Spalding over a decade ago.

Hailing from a family of musicians in the Bronx with roots in gospel, Joy began her journey with jazz at age 17, winning Best Vocalist honors at Lincoln Center’s “Essentially Ellington” competition.


The New York Times describes Samara Joy as a “silky-voiced rising jazz star” and the Boston Globe compliments her “warm, capacious vocal instrument and breathtaking technique.” The 22-year old burst onto the world stage when her TikTok videos of soulful standards went viral landing her on the TODAY Show. She is newly signed to the prestigious Verve records label and has been awarded 2023 GRAMMY Awards for Best New Artist and Best Vocal Jazz Album. She brings a fresh, youthful energy to timeless jazz classics and is no doubt on her way to being the great legend of this generation.

Charleston Jazz Festival: Samara Joy

Charleston Music Hall

“Following one of the most incredible weeks of my life, I hate to tell you all that under the weather. Although I’m going to be just fine in a week or so, based on doctor’s orders, we are going to have to postpone my concert this Saturday at The Soraya - NEW DATE: MARCH 26TH,” said Ms. Joy in a social media post today.”I am looking SO FORWARD to sharing the stage with the incomparable Clayton-Hamilton Orchestra at that time, and we can all celebrate together!”
If you are a ticket holder, your tickets are valid for the new date and no further action is needed. If you purchased a Livestream pass, you will receive a link to the livestream 24 hours before the concert.

The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra

We’ve expanded our Discovery Series to showcase the rising stars from the next generation of jazz! Our first ever Discovery Series jazz artist, Samara Joy, won the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. With a voice as smooth as velvet, Samara has already performed in many of the great jazz venues including Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola, The Blue Note, and Mezzrow, in addition to working with jazz greats such as Christian McBride, Pasquale Grasso, Kirk Lightsey, Cyrus Chestnut, and NEA Jazz Master Dr. Barry Harris.

Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

Join us for an unforgettable evening of jazz with the sensational Samara Joy at Zellerbach Hall on February 5, 2025, at 7:30 pm. Fresh from winning Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best New Artist at the 2023 Grammy Awards, followed by a third Grammy for Best Jazz Performance in 2024, Samara Joy is a talent not to be missed. With a voice that is warm, grounded, and imbued with a deep history in gospel music, she brings to life classic tunes associated with legends like Carmen McRae, Nat King Cole, and Billie Holiday. Tickets start at $45, with season subscriptions available now and single tickets going on sale at noon on August 6. Don't miss your chance to witness a young artist who has already taken her place among the jazz greats. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit [Cal Performances](https://calperformances.org/events/2024-25/jazz/samara-joy/).

Cal Performances

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Walt Disney Concert Hall as we welcome the 2023 Best New Artist Grammy winner, Samara Joy, for her debut performance on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 8:00 PM. This remarkable event marks the arrival of a truly unique talent in the world of jazz.

At just twenty-four years old, Bronx native Samara Joy combines the passion of youth with the wisdom of a seasoned artist, earning high praise from legends like Christian McBride for her ability to tell stories and evoke emotions reminiscent of the greats. Her style, refined and distinctive, has drawn comparisons to iconic singers such as Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald, all of whom have left their mark on Verve Records just as Joy is doing now.

Samara Joy's Grammy-winning album, "Linger Awhile," showcases her exceptional ability to put a fresh spin on well-known standards like "Misty" and "Round Midnight," while her deep curiosity about jazz history leads her to explore lesser-known gems such as "Sweet Pumpkin" and "Can’t Get Out of This Mood." Her recent third Grammy Award win for her rendition of Betty Carter's "Tight" signals that she is a force to be reckoned with, as she prepares new music for a full-length follow-up.

Critics from The New York Times and NPR's All Things Considered have lauded Joy for her silky voice and her role in bringing a youthful energy to jazz, marking her as a classic jazz singer for a new generation. Don't miss the chance to witness the Walt Disney Concert Hall debut of a rising star who is set to soar even higher.

This performance is part of the Jazz JZ1 Series, which also features other notable artists such as Jason Moran & The Big Bandwagon, Herbie Hancock, and Patrice Rushen in the 2024/25 season. Programs, artists, dates, prices, and availability are subject to change. All sales are final, and ticket limits may apply.

Prepare for an evening of enchanting music and be part of Samara Joy's historic debut at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Vocalist Samara Joy has reached tremendous heights as a prolific rising star in the jazz world. Linger Awhile, her 2022 debut album with Verve Records, drew critical acclaim and earned her two Grammys—Best Jazz Vocal Recording and Best New Artist in any genre.

Samara Joy

Vocalist

Events

Upcoming events

Feb 5, 2025

Samara Joy · Cal Performances

Feb 7, 2025

Samara Joy · Los Angeles Philharmonic

May 3, 2025

Samara Joy · Celebrity Series of Boston

Past events

Dec 19, 2024

Samara Joy A Joyful Holiday · Broadway In Detroit

Dec 13, 2024

An evening with Gregory Porter · Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

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