American Jazz Vocalist, Stephanie Porter was first heard nationally in the mid-nineties, reaching the top 100 Gavin National Jazz Radio Chart. A world class vocalist with a rare contralto range, Porter has been on a total of 14-album releases, including her latest, “Radio Theatre”, where she penned seven original tracks. The album featuring multi-platinum trumpeter, Steve Madaio.
Stephanie has shared stages with original jazz greats Ernestine Anderson, Buddy Catlet, Bob Hammer, Jack Percival and Red Kelly, to name a few. She has also opened for contemporary artists, including Michael McDonald, Chaka Khan, Cameo, Kansas and more. As a special guest, Porter has worked with The Tacoma Symphony under the direction of both Harvey Felder and Sarah Ionnides, The Harry James Orchestra, The Radio Rhythm Orchestra, The Full Circle Jazz Orchestra, SRJO and Roadside Attraction. As a background vocalist, she has performed with The Steve Miller Band in concert. Stephanie also toured with Hit Explosion during the 1990's, a very popular dance band, booked regularly at Portland's Crystal Ballroom, The Seattle ShowBox, Fenix Underground, Kingdome and Key Arena.
A long-gigging jazz singer with ensembles, Porter has toured and performed across the US and Europe, preferring to remain an independent recording artist, based in Seattle. Singing in just about every club, festival, arena and theater in the PNW. Some of Stephanie residencies include the El Gaucho's “Pampas Room”, Tula's award winning jazz club, Belltowns 2218 and Red Kelly's Jazz Club, Tacoma, WA. Headlining performances “New Years at the Needle” and “New Years at Chihuly Glass Garden”, “Bumpershoot”, and variable festivals, fundraisers and corporate events.
Honors include the Earshot “Golden Ear” and IndieMusic.com's "Top 25 Best and Brightest Musical Artists", with recordings charting at #2 and #9, recognized by the International Association of Independent Recording Artist.
As a recording artist, Porter's music has been broadcasted on regular rotation for over two decades. Most notable releases include I Can't Get Started, He thinks that I'm wonderful, Cheek to Cheek, World on a String, Body and Soul, My Heart Belongs to Daddy. A natural born jazz vocalist and entertainer, and artist that enjoys singing music of all styles. A “first call” vocalist whose classic and unique voice continues to be a favorite feature for jingles, television shows, and motion pictures.
Porter is true to the songs she sings, always honest with the audience listening, and enveloped in the creative process with her band. KNKX's Nick Morrison described her as a favorite not only among jazz listeners, but among jazz musicians.