Vanessa Collier

🎷 Vanessa Collier

Singer • Songwriter • Saxophonist

A four-time Blues Music Award winner and one of the most dynamic voices of her generation, Vanessa Collier is redefining contemporary blues with her soulful mix of blues, funk, rock, and Memphis-inspired soul.

Known for her electrifying live performances and commanding saxophone work, Vanessa’s artistry blends technical mastery with heartfelt storytelling. She’s been described as:

⭐ “The hardest working woman in show business.” – Elmore Magazine
⭐ “Up-and-comer.” – Rolling Stone
⭐ “She turns up the heat.” – AXS.com
⭐ “Vanessa Collier is an important part of the future of the blues.” – Blues Blast Magazine

🎵 New Album: Do It My Own Way (Phenix Fire Records)

Released September 13, 2024, the album is a stunning, analog-recorded homage to the golden age of Memphis soul, featuring legends like Rev. Charles Hodges (Al Green) and Laura Chavez.
It explores empowerment, resilience, and creative freedom, with standout tracks:

• Wild As a Rainstorm
• Do It My Own Way
• Take Me Back

“It’s a warmer, darker-sounding record, intentionally crafted as a throwback to the days of great songs, tube amps, and analog soul.” – Vanessa Collier

🏆 Awards & Recognition

• 4× Blues Music Award Winner
  • 2022 Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year
  • Horn Player of the Year
  • B.B. King Entertainer of the Year
• 12× Blues Music Award nominee
• Graduate of Berklee College of Music
• Former member of Joe Louis Walker’s band

🌍 Background

Born in Texas and raised in Maryland, Vanessa began playing sax at age 9 and later honed her craft at Berklee. After touring internationally with Joe Louis Walker, she launched a solo career marked by six acclaimed albums, charting on Billboard’s Blues Album Chart and earning her global recognition.