1953 – Birth of Pierce Freelon’s Father, Jazz Legend Nnenna Freelon

On May 16, 1953, Nnenna Freelon, the six-time Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist, was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Renowned for her commanding voice and socially conscious lyrics, Freelon rose to prominence in the 1990s as one of jazz’s leading contemporary voices. In addition to performing globally with artists like Herbie Hancock and Ray Charles, Freelon became a key educator and advocate for arts in Black communities. Her work often explores African American history, identity, and resilience. Freelon also founded the Freelon Group Foundation, supporting arts education. She raised a family rooted in cultural creativity—her son, Pierce Freelon, is a Grammy-nominated musician, professor, and activist. Her career has helped expand the role of Black women in jazz and in preserving the cultural memory of African diasporic communities through music and mentorship.