Suni Paz was one of the first artists to bring the nueva canción tradition—the “new song” music of the 1960s and 1970s—to North American audiences. For more than half of a century, her work as an American songwriter and performer of Latin American folk music has resonated as a cultural force, engaging people of all backgrounds and ages.
Carmen McRae was one of the great singers of jazz, finding the depth of feeling in the lyrics of the songs she interpreted.
Cassandra Wilson has used her distinctive voice and fascinating arrangements of standards, in not just jazz, but blues, country, and folk as well, to create a body of work that has expanded the definition of jazz.
World-renowned Aboriginal Australian opera singer, composer, playwright and creator of Australia’s first Aboriginal opera.
Wu Man belongs to a rare group of musicians whose vivid brilliance, commanding personality, and range of expression has redefined their instrument, in her case, the pipa, a centuries-old, pear-shaped, four-stringed Chinese lute.
One of the most influential and beloved salsa singers
Dr. Pearl Williams-Jones (1931-1991) was a gospel musician, composer, and scholar.
American folk and blues musician
Active as a teacher and songwriter, she also began to write poetry and gained a reputation as one of America’s premier Yiddish poets.
Carmencristina Moreno, recipient of the Bess Lomax Hawes Award, has been recognized for her lifelong contribution to Mexican American musical heritage through songwriting, performing, and teaching.