Jhelisa

Jhelisa Renee Anderson is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and producer, recognized for her unique blend of soul, jazz, world music, and electronica. With a career spanning several decades, she has captivated audiences with her hauntingly beautiful voice and innovative musical style. Her impressive collaborations include working alongside renowned artists such as Björk, Massive Attack, and The Shamen, earning her widespread critical acclaim for both her solo projects and dynamic live performances that intertwine themes of spirituality and activism.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Jhelisa grew up in a musically inclined family, surrounded by gospel and jazz influences. Her father was a gospel DJ and pianist, while her mother was a singer, both of whom supported her artistic journey. Her sister, Pamela, and cousin, Carleen Anderson, also contributed to the family’s musical legacy.

Jhelisa began her professional journey at Motown Records in Los Angeles, where she developed her skills as a vocal arranger and collaborated with emerging talents, including Jeff Buckley. In 1989, she relocated to London and became a member of Soul Family Sensation, which led to the release of the notable album New Wave. As a vocalist for The Shamen, she played a key role in the success of their album Boss Drum, contributing to hits like "Phorever People."

Her debut solo album, Galactica Rush (1994), showcased her as a formidable artist, followed by the critically lauded Language Electric (1997), which solidified her status in the neo-soul movement. Jhelisa’s collaborations have included luminaries such as Paul Weller and Nitin Sawhney, and she penned the poignant piece "Death of a Soul Diva" for Chaka Khan.

After Hurricane Katrina impacted her life in New Orleans, Jhelisa moved to Atlanta, where she created Sunday in Algiers, a heartfelt homage to Nina Simone. Recently, she has ventured into meditative music with her 7 Keys series.