I recently had the privilege of attending Nnenna Freelon’s electrifying performance at Dizzy’s Club, part of Jazz at Lincoln Center in Manhattan. The atmosphere was alive with energy, and Nnenna’s soulful voice wrapped the audience in a warm embrace.
Nnenna Freelon, a seven-time Grammy Award nominee, graced the stage with her latest recording, “Beneath The Skin” (Origin Records). Moving beyond the classic American Songbook standards, she captivated with original compositions that spoke straight to the heart.
As she beautifully shared, “I’m taking a lesson from my garden — from the flower that trusts itself to be enough.”
Accompanied by an outstanding quartet — Keith Ganz on guitar, Miki Hayama on piano, Kenny Davis on bass, and Jeremy Warren on drums — Nnenna’s performance was a masterclass in blending jazz with a touch of blues, pouring passion and soul into every note. It was truly an evening of musical magic and storytelling.
One of the most special moments of the night was being introduced backstage to Nnenna herself. We shared a brief but meaningful conversation about the possibility of her lending her incredible voice and talent to the ARDN Campaign to Give A Red Card to All Forms of Discrimination and Violence Against Women and Girls. Her enthusiasm for using her artistry to inspire positive change left me deeply moved and motivated.
A huge thank you to Sandra Trim Da-Costa for the invitation and for making this unforgettable evening possible. Special appreciation also goes to Anré “Rey” DaCosta and the Bullion Team for their dedication and support in making the event such a resounding success. Additionally, I extend my gratitude to Ed Keane, Nnenna Freelon’s manager, for his instrumental role in bringing her remarkable talent to the stage. It was also wonderful to see Gail Allen, the talented jazz singer and a guest of Sandra, whose presence added to the warmth and spirit of the evening.
Music has a way of bringing people together, lifting spirits, and igniting change — and Nnenna Freelon exemplified that spirit last night.
I left the concert feeling inspired and even more committed to our mission.
Dr. Djibril Diallo is President and CEO of the African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN)
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