Biography
Frankye Kelly, the jazz vocalist, speaks openly about those who helped shape her path. Her cousin Albert Collins, known as the "Master of the Telecaster," instilled in her the need for humility and for treating every audience with respect, whether the crowd numbered one or 10,001. Buddy Connor, whom she credits as her mentor, offered support from the outset when assistance proved unavailable elsewhere. Elements of Sarah Vaughan’s approach surface regularly in Kelly’s own singing. Songwriter Johnnie Mae Matthews and Emanuel Lasky rank among her other key influences.
Born in Mississippi, Kelly now makes her home in California. Because a parent served in the U.S. Air Force, her childhood included stretches in Delaware, Germany, Minnesota, Illinois, and Michigan. Music drew her attention at the age of three, largely through her grandmother’s encouragement. She nurtured that interest during her youth and went on to win competitions and pageants. Appearances throughout the San Francisco area included a six-month engagement at Top of the Park with Ricardo Scales. Tours have taken her to Europe and Japan. In addition to performing and recording, she hosts the weekly television program Jazz With Frankye, which has aired throughout the Bay Area since 1997.
Born in Mississippi, Kelly now makes her home in California. Because a parent served in the U.S. Air Force, her childhood included stretches in Delaware, Germany, Minnesota, Illinois, and Michigan. Music drew her attention at the age of three, largely through her grandmother’s encouragement. She nurtured that interest during her youth and went on to win competitions and pageants. Appearances throughout the San Francisco area included a six-month engagement at Top of the Park with Ricardo Scales. Tours have taken her to Europe and Japan. In addition to performing and recording, she hosts the weekly television program Jazz With Frankye, which has aired throughout the Bay Area since 1997.
Albums
Live
