Gregory Porter and Samara Joy

Gregory Porter, born in Los Angeles and raised in Bakersfield, CA, is renowned for his warm baritone and jazz, soul, and gospel fusion. He's compared to Nat King Cole, Donny Hathaway, and Stevie Wonder. His 2010 debut, *Water*, earned a Grammy nomination, and his third album, *Liquid Spirit*, won the Best Jazz Vocal Album Grammy, becoming one of the most-streamed jazz albums ever. Known for originals and tributes like 2017's *Nat King Cole & Me*, he has collaborated with Kamau Kenyatta, Disclosure, and others. His 2020 album *All Rise* was Grammy-nominated, and his holiday album *Christmas Wish* followed in 2023.

Bronx native Samara Joy, immersed in classic R&B and church gospel, won the 2019 Sarah Vaughan Jazz Vocal Competition. Her jazz journey includes breakthrough LPs "Linger Awhile" and "Portrait," showcasing lyricist talent with music by Mingus and Sun Ra. Co-produced with Grammy-winner Brian Lynch, she's emerging as a standout jazz vocalist.