Ekep Nkwelle is a rising star in jazz whose voice transcends genres. Blending the rich traditions of Black American music with her West African heritage, Ekep’s performances are a fusion of jazz, gospel, blues, and global rhythms, delivered with profound emotional depth and powerful phrasing.
Awarded the prestigious Juilliard Career Advancement Grant by Wynton Marsalis, Ekep has quickly become one of the most celebrated young vocalists in jazz. Born in Washington, DC, to a Cameroonian-American family, she brings a unique, vibrant perspective to her music. She is a graduate of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, The Juilliard School, and Howard University. She has performed with jazz giants like Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, the late Russell Malone, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Catherine Russell, Cyrus Chestnut, and Kenny Barron.
Ekep Nkwelle – Vocals; Julius Rodriguez – Piano; Jermaine Paul – Bass; Brian Richburg, Jr. – Drums