If you’ve been following the world of jazz vocals lately, then you’ve probably heard the name Ekep Nkwelle. The D.C.-born vocalist is the epitome of a rising star, having appeared everywhere from the Newport and Nice Jazz Festivals to Carnegie Hall and Jazz at Lincoln Center in just a few years, all before releasing an album. But now, that changes with the release of her debut, Caged Bird, out this week on Mack Avenue Records.
WBGO's Kyla Marshell talks to Ekep about her practice of deep listening, her first time meeting Wynton Marsalis, and what she hopes listeners take away from Caged Bird.
Caged Bird comes out Friday, September 25 on Mack Avenue Records.
