Catherine Russell

A native New Yorker born into musical royalty, vocalist Catherine Russell began her professional life early after earning honors at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She has toured and recorded with Carrie Smith, Steely Dan, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Jackson Browne, Michael Feinstein, Levon Helm, Toshi Reagon and Rosanne Cash among others, appearing on over 200 albums. Her father was the late Luis Russell, a legendary pianist composer and bandleader who served as long-time musical director for Louis Armstrong. Her mother was the late Carline Ray, a pioneering vocalist guitarist and bassist who performed with International Sweethearts of Rhythm, Mary Lou Williams and Sy Oliver.