Sullivan Fortner with Alicia Olatuja

DownBeat’s reviewer heard “a special instrument: a full-bodied tone, precise pitch and personal engagement at the lowest whisper or highest wail.” The New York Times hailed “[a] singer with a strong, lustrous tone and an amiably regal presence onstage.” Since first stepping into the national spotlight in 2013 as a soloist with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir’s performance at President Barack Obama’s Second Inauguration, Alicia Olatuja has been enchanting audiences with her singular voice, artistic versatility and captivating demeanor. She joined composer/pianist Billy Childs in the touring group of his show “Map to the Treasure: Reimagining Laura Nyro”; and has guested with jazz organ master Dr. Lonnie Smith at multiple events including New York’s annual Charlie Parker Festival. Alicia Olatuja arrives on our stage fresh from her appearance at the Newport Jazz Festival – catch a rising star, this week at Jazz Standard!