About Leesa Richards
ABOUT LEESA RICHARDS
SINGER-SONGWRITER
Leesa Richards — Detroit roots, jazz heart. Raised in Detroit’s music-rich culture, Leesa immersed herself in jazz early, singing along to Nancy Wilson records and today is a nationally recognized jazz vocalist, bandleader, songwriter and producer.
Leesa performs a sophisticated set of jazz standards, original compositions, and inventive jazz interpretations of contemporary songs by artists such as Stevie Wonder and Joni Mitchell. Known for her soulful, expressive voice and elegant stagecraft, Leesa’s live shows have earned widespread praise for their warmth, timelessness, and modern sensibility.
Her recent work highlights a deepening focus on jazz storytelling: evocative arrangements, intimate quartet settings, and original material that bridges classic jazz phrasing with contemporary songwriting. In addition to live performances, Leesa records and collaborates with nationally known musicians and continues to expand her repertoire and audience through performances and releases.
Leesa’s artistic foundation began in dance. She trained at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and launched a professional performing career in dance and musical theater, including the role of Mary Magdalene on the national tour of Jesus Christ Superstar and a world tour as a dancer with Whitney Houston. Transitioning to singing and songwriting, she has performed with Oleta Adams, Faith Hill, Barry Gibb, Kelly Clarkson, Gloria Estefan, and Julio Iglesias, and recorded with Barbra Streisand and Lenny Kravitz. Her debut solo album, Mother’s Child, blends soulful ballads, rock, and R&B and reflects the personal narratives that continue to inform her jazz work.
Rooted in Detroit, shaped by a life rich in history, movement and creativity, Leesa Richards brings classic jazz warmth and contemporary musicality to every show.
For Booking Information, please contact: Lawanda Joseph, Business Manager 305.525.0338
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