Allan Harris

Member Since: 2010 | Location: New York City | Page Views: 2,464

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About Me

The Brooklyn-born, Harlem-based vocalist/guitarist/bandleader/composer Allan Harris has reigned supreme as one of the most accomplished and exceptional singers of his generation.

ALLAN HARRIS BIO Brooklyn-born and Harlem-based, vocalist/guitarist/composer Allan Harris has earned his place as one of the most exceptional jazz singers of his generation. Described by the Miami Herald as having “the warmth of Tony Bennett, the bite and rhythmic sense of Sinatra, and the sly elegance of Nat ‘King’ Cole,” Harris’s artistry shines through his 14 recordings, globally acclaimed performances, and numerous awards. These accolades include three New York Nightlife Awards for “Outstanding Jazz Vocalist,” the DownBeat Critics Poll Award for “Rising Star Jazz Vocalist,” and the Hot House Jazz Magazine’s “Jazz Vocalist of the Year” in 2015 and 2016. Harris has also received France's Palmares Award for 3rd Best Jazz Vocal Album of 2019 and multiple prestigious grants, including the South Arts Jazz Roads Tour grant. Gilles Peterson—renowned DJ, broadcaster, and tastemaker known for championing innovative artists worldwide—named Harris one of the artists to watch in the U.S. and Europe, solidifying his international appeal. Recently earning third place in the Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition, Harris’s dynamic stage presence has made him a sought-after performer in concert halls, jazz clubs, and festivals worldwide. He has shared the stage with icons like Tony Bennett, Diana Krall, Natalie Cole, Abbey Lincoln, Al Jarreau, and Wynton Marsalis. As Variety aptly puts it, “Harris is a velvet-voiced jazz singer, with a savvy manner and music in his veins.” Called a “protean talent” by The New York Times, Harris captivates audiences with his impeccable phrasing, emotional depth, and storytelling. His authentic interpretations of the American Songbook, jazz standards, blues, and originals have earned praise from The Wall Street Journal, JazzTimes, DownBeat, and more, solidifying his legacy as a true master of jazz.

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My Jazz Story

I've always loved jazz ...my mother was a classical pianist and my aunt was a blues singer, who was managed by Clarence Williams (Bessie Smith's producer). As a young boy, they introduced me to people like Louis Armstrong, Sarah Vaughan, and Jimmy Smith. We hung out at my Aunt Kate's Soul Food restaurant in Harlem after the matinees at the Apollo where I listened to their stories. I knew I wanted to be a jazz musician from then on. My mother wanted me to play piano, but my Aunt bought me a guitar. I've been playing ever since. At my mother's early prompting, I first sang "Blue Velvet" at my Catholic elementary school...and all the nuns came running in and asked me to sing again, so I knew I must have sounded pretty good. I've been singing ever since. I met Tony Bennett in Miami and he inspired me to return to New York. He was a great mentor. The best show I ever attended is mpossible to say, I've seen so many great shows. From Tony Bennett to Pat Martino, Return to Forever to Weather Report...I've seen some great performances. My advice to new listeners is don't let jazz intimidate you, the music has something for every listener and it is our American gift to the world.

My House Concert Story

My wife and I produced a streaming concert series called Harlem After Dark, Unplugged during the pandemic. It was an exciting and successful series and has now been developed into a touring show that debuted in Jan. 2025 at Dizzys and will be going out on tour.