Sharon Jones

Sharon Lafaye Jones (May 4, 1956 – November 18, 2016) was a renowned American soul and funk vocalist, celebrated as the dynamic frontwoman of Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, a prominent band rooted in the Brooklyn music scene. Despite her extraordinary talent, Jones achieved significant recognition later in life, releasing her debut album at the age of 40. Her remarkable journey included a Grammy nomination in 2014 for Best R&B Album for her work "Give the People What They Want."

Originally from Augusta, Georgia, Jones relocated to New York City during her youth. She honed her vocal skills singing gospel in church, but it wasn't until the late 1990s that her musical career began to flourish. Before fully committing to music, she worked as a correction officer at Rikers Island. Her breakthrough came when she impressed music producers Gabriel Roth and Philip Lehman, who recognized her talent during a session where she was the sole backup singer present, showcasing her versatility across multiple tracks.

In 2002, Jones formed Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, which included members from various bands. Their acclaimed albums, such as "Naturally" (2005) and "I Learned the Hard Way" (2010), solidified their place in the soul and funk genres. Jones also made a notable appearance in the 2007 film "The Great Debaters," performing several songs and broadening her audience. Her energetic performances on shows like "Austin City Limits," "Late Night with David Letterman," and "Conan" further showcased her exceptional artistry.