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Akemi Yamada

"Dreamy Jazz"

About Me

Akemi Yamada, a native of Tokyo, has been captivating audiences with her unique “Dreamy Jazz” style in New York City since 2008. She graduated with a BFA in Jazz Vocal Performance from City College of New York in 2007, studying under jazz luminaries including Sheila Jordan, Mike Holober, Ray Santos, and John Patitucci. Her musical education was further enriched by mentorship from Grammy-winning Brazilian jazz singer Luciana Souza and renowned acid jazz artist Monday Michiru. Akemi's discography includes her debut jazz album “With A Song In My Heart” (2007), showcasing her interpretation of jazz standards, and “Ta Bi Ji -My Journey-” (2015), introducing her original compositions. Additionally, she recorded for renowned flautist Ronald Lashley’s compilation album “Christmas Jingles” in 2014. Her “Dreamy Jazz” style uniquely blends contemporary jazz harmonies with elements of pop, Brazilian music, classical, gospel, and Japanese traditional music, exploring a connection between sophistication and deep emotion. Musical influences include Pat Metheny, Toninho Horta, Stevie Wonder, Yumi Arai (Matsutoya), and Monday Michiru. As a performer, Akemi has graced numerous prestigious New York venues since 2008, including regular performances at Jazz at Kitano (2013 to 2019) and Tomi Jazz (2012 to 2018). She has also appeared at Walter Reade Theater (Film at Lincoln Center), Rockwood Music Hall, The Triad, and City Winery. Akemi has collaborated with acclaimed musicians like Helio Alves, Quincy Davis, Randy Napoleon, and Pete McCann. Since 2009, she has toured annually in Japan, performing at major jazz clubs in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Sapporo. In 2019, she expanded her international reach with a performance at Marsalis Home Taipei in Taiwan. Akemi's versatility extends beyond jazz. She served as a choir section leader and soloist with Voices of Grace at Grace Congregational Church of Harlem from 2008 to 2012, specializing in Negro Spirituals and sacred songs. Her operatic experiences include roles in “En Saga” at Merkin Concert Hall and “Seventh Seal” with the Brazilian Opera Company. Her music has received radio play on shows like “The Jazz Life” (88.7FM, New York/New Jersey), “The Jake Fineberg Show” (Arizona), “Voice of Harlem” WHCR 90.3 FM (New York), and “Jazz Factory” WDIY88.1FM (Pennsylvania).