N’Kenge Celebrates her African Heritage

N’Kenge Celebrates her African Heritage –  Internationally acclaimed, Grammy, Tony, and Emmy-nominated vocalist N’Kenge has struck a powerful chord with South African audiences following the release of her new single. A stirring cover of the beloved jazz standard ‘Bewitched‘. Fans across the country have embraced the American artist’s rendition. Local radio stations have also rallied behind the release with growing playlist support.

Originally penned by Rodgers and Hart, ‘Bewitched‘ has been reimagined countless times over the decades. With her sultry vocal delivery and commanding stage presence, N’Kenge brings fresh life to the classic, winning new admirers while paying homage to jazz’s golden era.

The single forms part of N’Kenge’s debut jazz album, ‘CenterStage: Live from the Ella Fitzgerald Festival.‘ It was recorded at her sold-out headlining performance at the 27th Annual Ella Fitzgerald Festival.

“I am truly overwhelmed by the warmth and support I’ve received from South Africa. Knowing that my interpretation of a timeless classic like Bewitched is being celebrated on South African radio and by fans means the world to me. My parents are of African heritage and raised me to be proud of it. Growing up, I always felt a connection to the music, stories, and culture of Africa. To now see South African audiences embracing my music is deeply personal and incredibly exciting.” ~  N’Kenge

More about N’Kenge

With a résumé that spans Broadway, Carnegie Hall, and more, N’Kenge is no stranger to international acclaim. She has starred in productions like Motown The Musical, Caroline, or Change, and Sondheim on Sondheim. She has also collaborated with legends including Wynton Marsalis, Ornette Coleman, and Berry Gordy. The New York Post has praised her performances as “electrifying.” The New York Times describes her as “a classically trained diva. One who can stretch from Broadway to Pop, Soul, and Opera.”

Her new project, CenterStage: Live from the Ella Fitzgerald Festival, is both a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald and a celebration of jazz standards. Alongside ‘Bewitched‘, the album includes favorites such as S’Wonderful, Too Darn Hot, Summertime, and Stormy Weather.

N’Kenge is giving back through the N’Kenge Foundation, that mentors young artists from underrepresented communities. She is also developing two major new works. A Broadway-bound musical about Dorothy Dandridge and a television musical dramedy, Black Butterfly.

Stream ‘Bewitched’ from N’Kenge here

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