A Journey through Music: N'Kenge on Opera, Musical Theater, and Motherhood

Living A Vocal Life: A Podcast For Singers

17-03-2023 • 52 Min.

In this episode, I had the opportunity to speak with the extraordinary singer and performer N'Kenge. Her vocal range spans five octaves and 11 different languages. She can sing any style of music, from Broadway to pop, soul, and opera. Her impressive resume includes leading roles in various Broadway musicals and performances at major venues like Carnegie Hall and Madison Square Garden. Additionally, she has sung for presidents and dignitaries around the world, including President Clinton and President Obama's historic Inaugural Ball.

N'Kenge has performed since she was in grade school and has worked with incredible musicians like Ornette Coleman and Wynton Marsalis. Motown founder, Barry Gordy, describes her as "The most versatile artist I know."

We delve into her early memories of singing and how her parents encouraged her to pursue the arts as a way to channel her incredible energy. Join us as we dive into N'Kenge's life, from her early beginnings in the Bronx, New York, to her journey as a fully realized artist. We discuss the importance of an arts education, techniques for switching between different music styles, and the challenges of balancing a music career and parenting.


For full show notes, transcriptions of this episode, and more offerings for singers, you can visit my website HERE.

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