Samara Joy

With a voice that bridges generations, six-time GRAMMY Award-winning vocalist Samara Joy has emerged as one of the most compelling voices in jazz today. Rooted in the jazz tradition while bringing a distinctive perspective all her own, Joy connects the music’s rich history with new audiences.

A native of the Bronx, Joy grew up surrounded by classic R&B and gospel before discovering jazz while studying at SUNY Purchase. Her 2019 win at the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition introduced her to the wider jazz world, where she quickly earned acclaim from audiences and critics as a masterful interpreter of jazz standards. Her artistry reflects the influence of jazz greats including Sarah Vaughan, Betty Carter, Abbey Lincoln and Carmen McRae.

Joy’s breakout Verve album, Linger Awhile, earned GRAMMY® Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best New Artist. Her latest album, Portrait, reveals the continuing evolution of her artistry. Co-produced with veteran trumpeter and bandleader Brian Lynch, the album showcases the intimate, soulful chemistry Joy has developed with her touring band while highlighting her growing gifts as a lyricist and arranger. Portrait earned the 2025 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Jazz Album and the 2026 GRAMMY® Award for Best Vocal Jazz Album.