Biography

Jessie Arlen, is a 22 year-old vocalist and songwriter described as a crossover artist with roots in jazz. In 2010, she released her debut album entitled "Certain Surprise". The album features unique and original arrangements of jazz standards. Joining her on the recording are many of Chicago’s best musicians.

Jessie is known as a classification-defying singer who embraces songs in a way that belies her relative youth. Her pure, soulful voice lends itself to multiple musical styles and her interpretations both honor the composer's style and intent and add a very personal and contemporary relevance.

In 2007, she was awarded the Downbeat Student Music Award for Best Jazz Vocalist in 2007. Jessie's extensive performance experiences are numerous. Highlights include singing with famous jazz/blues artist Jon Hendricks and his band in 2008, being featured vocalist at the Bellagio Hotel for 2008 and 2009 NYE celebrations in Las Vegas, and producing and performing live concerts. Recent television performances and live interviews include broadcasts on ABC and WGN.

Jessie was born in the Chicago area. She trained with renowned teachers in a variety of the performing arts -specifically ballet, jazz and contemporary dance, acting, and piano. Her theater credits include lead roles in dozens of productions including Fats Waller’s Ain’t Misbehavin’, Cole Porter’s Anything Goes and Stephen Schwartz’s Working. Highlights of upcoming 2010 solo concerts include the Lula Lounge in Toronto and The Auditorium Theater’s Jazz Cabaret Series On the Road. Jessie is currently a resident of New York City.