Judy Barnett
JUDY BARNETT/BIO
Judy Barnett’s ubiquitous presence on New York City’s jazz scene over the last twenty years has made her one of the most popular and respected singers currently working. She received the MAC 2007 Major Jazz Vocalist of the Year Award to go along with her other six MAC Jazz Vocalist Awards. In addition, Judy has a Back Stage Bistro Award and twelve ASCAP Special Awards for her songwriting. Over the last decade, Judy has made Time Out New York’s Critic’s Picks List virtually every time she has performed, in every venue she has appeared.
In the words of the late, renowned jazz critic Stuart Troup, “Judy Barnett has cut an extraordinarily wide swath in show business in terms of material, stages and abilities.” At alternate times in her life she could be found acting and directing in New York, in the Caribbean with a repertory theatre company, playing percussion in steel and reggae bands, writing a musical, singing standards, calypso and rock, and always composing songs.
Judy was the founder, co-owner and operator of the jazz club/restaurant J’s, that enjoyed an almost decade-long run from the mid 80’s through 90’s. J’s provided a stage, forum and unique support for some of the best artists playing today. Beloved and missed by musicians and fans alike, J‘s is still thought of as one of New York City’s finest jazz clubs.
In addition to her performing, recording and producing career, Judy Barnett is a President Emeritus of MAC, The Manhattan Association of Cabarets & Clubs, a 25 year-old organization devoted to advancing the art and business of live entertainment. She also co-owns a CD production company with audio engineer Scott Noll, called Goat Herder Productions.
Ms. Barnett has recorded four CD’s; the eponymous Judy Barnett, Swingin’, a CD of her own songs called The Road To My Heart and a big band CD of Spring and Summer songs, Too Darn Hot! She is currently at work on a new jazz CD and can be seen performing in New York City, as well as around the country with her band, Jazz-A-Teria.
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