Brooklyn-based singer Gregory Porter performs to sell-out audiences across the world thanks to his heady mix of jazz and soul. He has been compared with such music greats as Joe Williams, Nat King Cole, Donny Hathway and Marvin Gaye.

Porter was born in Los Angeles and was raised in Bakersfield, California, where his mother was a minister. He graduated high school in 1989 and received an athletic scholarship to San Diego State University (SDSU Aztecs). Unfortunately, a shoulder injury during his junior year of high school restricted his football career.

He's been hugely successful in the UK since his debut album, Water, was released in 2010 via Motéma Music and was nominated for Best Jazz Vocal album at the Grammy Awards. His second album was released on February 14, 2012. The title track was also nominated for Best Traditional R&B Performance at the Grammy Awards. He's a regular on Graham Norton and Jools Holland's shows for the BBC and has also sung on Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage.

Why Does Gregory Porter Always Wear A Hat?

Porter always wears a modified flat cap for public appearances. The reason for this is not entirely clear, but he has mentioned its role as a security blanket and refers to it as his “jazz hat.” In an interview with Jazzweekly.com when asked “what’s with the ubiquitous hat?” Porter replied, “I’ve had some surgery on my skin, so this has been my look for a little while and will continue to be for a while longer. People recognize me by it now. It is what it is.”

Gregory Porter's Musical Journey

Porter's music is a blend of jazz, soul, and gospel, and his powerful vocals have captivated audiences around the world. His musical journey has been marked by several key milestones, including his early influences, his rise to fame, and his artistic evolution. He draws on his experiences growing up in a church environment, where he was surrounded by gospel music, as well as his passion for jazz and soul. This unique combination has resulted in a distinctive sound that has earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Early Influences: Gospel and Jazz

Porter's musical roots are deeply intertwined with gospel music, which played a significant role in his upbringing. His mother, a minister, instilled in him a love for gospel music, and he began singing in the church choir at a young age. This early exposure to gospel's powerful vocals and spiritual themes would later influence his own musical style. Porter's musical tastes expanded beyond gospel to encompass the world of jazz. He was particularly inspired by jazz vocalists such as Joe Williams and Nat King Cole, whose smooth and soulful voices left a lasting impression on him. These influences are evident in his own music, which seamlessly blends the raw emotion of gospel with the sophisticated artistry of jazz.

The Rise to Fame

Porter's musical career took off with the release of his debut album, Water, in 2010. The album, which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album, established Porter as a force to be reckoned with in the world of jazz. Water showcased Porter's impressive vocal range, his ability to convey emotion through his music, and his unique blend of jazz and soul. Since then, Porter has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Be Good, Liquid Spirit, and Nat King Cole & Me. Each album has further solidified his reputation as one of the leading vocalists of his generation.

Artistic Evolution

Porter's artistic evolution has been marked by a constant exploration of new sounds and styles. While his music is rooted in jazz and soul, he has also incorporated elements of gospel, R&B, and pop into his work. This willingness to experiment and push boundaries has kept his music fresh and engaging, and it has contributed to his enduring appeal.

A Master of His Craft

Gregory Porter's enduring success can be attributed to his undeniable talent and his unwavering commitment to his craft. His powerful vocals, his heartfelt lyrics, and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level have made him a true star. He has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with his soulful performances and his ability to transcend genres. His music is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, and his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists around the world.