Esperanza Spalding
Esperanza Spalding is a five-time Grammy Award-winning bassist, vocalist, and composer who has redefined the boundaries of jazz for a new generation.
Esperanza Spalding is a five-time Grammy Award-winning bassist, vocalist, and composer whose extraordinary talent and vision have redefined the boundaries of jazz for a new generation. From Berklee student to Berklee instructor to global jazz phenomenon, Spalding's journey is one of the most inspiring in modern music. Her 2008 debut album 'Esperanza' topped Billboard's Contemporary Jazz chart for over 70 weeks, and she made history in 2011 by winning the Grammy for Best New Artist — the first jazz musician ever to receive the honor. She has performed at the White House and was invited by President Obama to perform at the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in Oslo. In 2024, Spalding released 'Milton + Esperanza,' a collaborative album with Brazilian legend Milton Nascimento, earning her 12th Grammy nomination. She has also established Prismid Sanctuary, a nonprofit residency and regenerative farm for BIPOC artists in Oregon. In her OnTheGig interview at the Village Vanguard in New York City, Spalding shared her story and advice for musicians with characteristic grace and depth.