Many artists chase fame and riches, with short-lived careers forgotten in a hurry. Others create simply for the intrinsic satisfaction they get from sharing their love of music with the world. Tonya Boyd-Cannon falls into the latter category – a Mississippi-born, Louisiana-raised singer-songwriter who radiates an unmistakable confidence and passion, and an individual who has truly dedicated her essence to the art form.
Her sound puts vibe front and center instead of confining herself to genre limitations. It’s a distinctive style that draws from her desire to give and heal others through music – ebbing and flowing from the most heart-wrenching ballads, to jazz, funk, rock, gospel, and everything in between. Paired with a delivery that is sharp, inspirational, and contemporary – fans have not only come to expect her unmatched dynamism and artistic versatility, but also her deep-seated authenticity.
Tonya’s illustrious career has seen her release many singles, EPs, and full-lengths, and collaborations, all of which have received significant praise from media and critics alike. She was crowned winner of ‘Budweiser’s: Battle for the Crown’ contest, and ranked in the Top 20 on NBC’s ‘The Voice’.
She performed the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Essence Music Festival, Mompox (Colombia)Jazz Festival, Lower 9 Festival, Satchmo Festival, and many more. Additionally, she has opened for seminal R&B acts Anthony Hamilton, KEM, Jaheim, Cassandra Wilson, Rhonda Richmond, Danny Glover, Stevie Wonder, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly and many others.
Today, Tonya continues down her chosen path of revitalizing people through her brand of soulful, dynamic, and captivatingly robust music. Tonya’s touring with her band, and Delfeayo Marsalis, where she continues to give her SOUL! When Tonya’s not on stage, she’s teaching vocal music in her classrooms and communities! For her, music and performing have allowed her to heal herself and bring vitality and happiness to others, and she still has so much to give.
