EKEP NKWELLE QUARTET

The 26-year-old Cameroonian-American singer Ekep Nkwelle, Born and raised in Washington, D.C.  is a rising star, a force in today’s jazz scene, charting a remarkable journey from the vibrant culture of Washington, DC, to the iconic stages of New York City and beyond.  She refined her musical gifts through rigorous academic training, earning a diploma from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, a Bachelor’s degree from Howard University, and a Master’s from The Juilliard School.

Her voice has captivated legendary jazz figures such as Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, the late Russell Malone, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Catherine Russell, Cyrus Chestnut, and Jeff “Tain” Watts, earning her multiple opportunities to collaborate with these luminaries.  She is featured on David Murray’s new album “Birdly Serenade” released in April 2025.

A dynamic performer, Ekep has left her mark on world-renowned stages, including Umbria Jazz Festival in Italy, Marians Jazzroom in Switzerland, the San Javier Jazz Festival in Spain, Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall in New York City, NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert in DC, and SFJAZZ in San Francisco.

In 2023, she took second place in the 11th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and was honored with the prestigious Juilliard Career Advancement Grant, nominated by Marsalis, recognizing her exceptional artistry and promise.  Beyond the stage, she contributes her talents to influential arts organizations such as The National Jazz Museum in Harlem, Jazz Houston, and The Woodshed Network. As one of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s latest rising stars, Ekep is poised to shape the future of jazz.

Sources: Text sent by musicians; https://www.ekepnkwelle.com/; https://afropop.org/articles/k