Summerfest 2017 Performer: Wayna
Stevie Wonder says “She’s incredible.”
Essence Magazine says “Wayna is one to watch.”
Billboard Magazine calls her “a standout on the indie front.”
Wayna is a GRAMMY-nominated, Ethiopian-born, singer/songwriter based in Washington, DC, who left a job as a Writer in the Clinton White House to pursue music.
She has since released three independent albums, the first “Moments of Clarity, Book 1” was hailed by soul music enthusiasts, and the second “Higher Ground” was nominated for a GRAMMYin the Best Urban/Alternative Performance Category.
USA Today called Wayna’s GRAMMY-nominated remake “Lovin You (Music) f. Kokayi” a refreshing take on the Minnie Ripperton classic.”
Wayna has also earned two Billboard chart-topping singles for her songs: “My Love” and “Moonlight Rendezvous.”
“The Expats” is her third and latest LP, and the Washington Post calls it “brilliant.”
Wayna has performed across the US and abroad – including shows at the Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Essence Fest, the White House, the Blue Note and Blues Alley. In 2015, she joined the iconic Stevie Wonder as a soloist and supporting vocalist in his live band, touring extensively with the Songs In the Key of Life Tour and in various performances throughout the US and Canada.
2016 kicked off with a 3-month performance residency in her native Ethiopia. And this Summer, Wayna will release a new music video for her single “Amazing.” In the year ahead, she will continue to tour with Stevie Wonder, while writing and recording new music.