American Jazz Vocalist Stephanie Porter has captivated audiences nationwide with her remarkable contralto range for over 3 decades. Her voice first garnered attention in the mid-nineties, propelling her to the top 100 of the Gavin Billboard Jazz Charts with “My heart belongs to daddy”. Her next album, How Deep is the Ocean achieved three charting releases simultaneously at #1 “Love for sale”, #9 “Love me or leave me” and #27 with the titled track “How Deep is the Ocean”. Porter established herself as a world-class vocalist with a distinctive sound and a vast discography.
Porter has not only resonated globally through radio play but has also graced stages across the United States and Europe, enchanting listeners around the world with her timeless vocals.
Porter's musical journey encompasses a total of 14 album releases, showcasing her versatility and artistry. Her latest album, "Radio Theatre," stands out for its originality, featuring seven tracks penned by Porter herself. The release also boasts the collaboration of renowned trumpeter Steve Madaio, adding a touch of brilliance to Porter's soulful vocals.
Throughout her career, Porter has had the privilege of sharing the stage with jazz legends such as Ernestine Anderson, Buddy Catlett, Bob Hammer, Jack Percival, and Red Kelly. Her artistry has not been confined to the jazz realm, as she has also opened for contemporary music icons like Michael McDonald, Chaka Khan, and Kansas, among others. She has also performed as a background vocalist for The Steve Miller Band during live concerts.
Stephanie’s musical diversity has taken her far and wide, from performances with The Tacoma Symphony under esteemed conductors Harvey Felder and Sarah Ionnides to collaborations with The Harry James Orchestra, The Radio Rhythm Orchestra, The Full Circle Jazz Orchestra, SRJO, Roadside Attraction, and the Tri-Cities, Three Rivers Orchestra.
As a guest artist / educator she has worked with many youth music programs and recently spent a week performing with the great bands of the Yakima Valley College and High School under the direction of Jeff Smith, fine trumpeter and esteemed band director.
During the 1990s, Stephanie embarked on a 4 year tour with Hit Explosion, a popular dance band, gracing renowned venues such as Portland's Crystal Ballroom, The Seattle ShowBox, Fenix Underground, Kingdome, and Key Arena. Despite her extensive touring and performances, Porter has chosen to maintain her independence as a recording artist, proudly calling Seattle her home base.
She has received special honors with a Independent Recording Artists of the Year award and a local Earshot Jazz Vocalist of the year in Seattle, WA.
A fixture in the Pacific Northwest music scene, Stephanie Porter's rich voice has resonated in countless clubs, festivals, arenas, and theaters, captivating audiences with her soulful interpretations and impeccable musicianship. As she continues to enchant listeners with her music, Porter remains a testament to the enduring power of jazz and the art of storytelling through song.