About this Artist
Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and raised in Romulus, Michigan, BARBARA MORRISON recorded her first appearance for radio in Detroit at the age of 10. Well-known in the Los Angeles area for her duo and trio dates, Morrison also tours extensively, blazing a trail as a jazz and blues legend in her own right across the continental United States, Western Europe, the Far East, and “Down Under,” wowing audiences with her band.
Fresh off a 33-city U.S. tour, co-headlining in an all-star tribute to legendary composer Harold Arlen (most recognizable for his genius behind the music for the classic film The Wizard of Oz), Morrison now celebrates her 30th year in the music industry. Over the years she has performed with a virtual “who’s who” of the jazz and blues worlds, with a list that includes legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Charles, James Moody, Ron Carter, Etta James, Esther Phillips, David T. Walker, Jimmy Smith, Johnny Otis, Dr. John, Kenny Burrell, Terence Blanchard, Joe Sample, Cedar Walton, Nancy Wilson, Mel Tormé, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, and Keb’ Mo. Additionally, Morrison guest stars with the Count Basie Orchestra, the Clayton-Hamilton Orchestra, and Doc Severinsen’s Big Band.
The dazzling Barbara Morrison has been featured on over 20 recordings. She has charmed fans of a wide array of genres, from traditional jazz and blues to gospel and pop. Her melodic voice, with its two-and-a-half-octave range, is known worldwide, as are her rich, unique, soulful, and highly spirited interpretations of familiar jazz and blues classics as well as original contemporary tunes. Equally as striking is Morrison’s ability to belt out down-home, soul-stirring blues. Her impassioned renditions of old and favorite torch songs are nothing short of breathtaking.
Beside her multiple solo recordings, fans have also experienced the pleasure of Barbara Morrison’s rich and vibrant tones on such notable film and television appearances as the soundtrack for The Hurricane (starring Denzel Washington) and Goin’ Home: A Tribute to Duke Ellington. Additional credits include the hit NBC TV comedy The Naked Truth, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Dennis Miller Show, and Johnny Otis’ CD Ooo Shoo Be Dooo.