Gregory Porter is an acclaimed American jazz vocalist, songwriter, and actor whose rich baritone voice and emotive delivery have garnered him a global following and numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards. Born in Los Angeles in 1971 and raised in Bakersfield, California, Porter found his passion for music early on, influenced by his mother, who was also a minister. Despite an early interest in sports—receiving a football scholarship for San Diego State University—an injury redirected his focus entirely to his musical talents.

Porter's career truly began to flourish with the release of his debut album "Water" in 2010, followed by "Be Good" in 2012, which earned him critical acclaim and a growing fan base. However, it was his 2013 album "Liquid Spirit," which won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album that cemented his status as a jazz powerhouse. Not only does Porter possess a distinctive voice that captures the spirit of jazz and soul legends, but he is also praised for his powerful songwriting that often reflects personal stories, social commentary, and deep emotional truths. His artistic output remains prolific and diverse, seen in recent releases such as the heartfelt singles "Christmas Wish," "Somebody," and "In My Heart," which demonstrate his versatility through original pieces and captivating remixes by prominent producers such as Moby, Paul Woolford, and Carl Cox. With the 2021 compilation "Still Rising - The Collection," Porter offers a retrospection of his journey while hinting at the ever-expansive reach of his artistry.

Genres

Contemporary Vocal Jazz

Jazz Pop

Vocal Jazz

Related Artists

Jamie Cullum

Robert Glasper

Kamasi Washington

Esperanza Spalding

Michael Bublé

Norah Jones

Michael Kiwanuka

Melody Gardot

Cécile McLorin Salvant

Kurt Elling

Leon Bridges

John Legend

Latest Release

The World (Is Going Up In Flames) [From The Original BBC Series "This Town"]

Gregory Porter

Single - Released April 21, 2024