Originally from Dallas, TX and now living in New York City, Tahira Clayton is known for her honest vocal delivery and charismatic stage presence. A strong lyricist and storyteller, Tahira’s musical style honors the ancestral lineage of Black American Music. Tahira recently headlined IMG Artists “Bessie, Billie, Nina: Pioneering Women in Jazz,” a national tour, alongside Charenee Wade, Vanisha Gould, and music directed by Carmen Staaf. She has led groups and performed in prestigious venues such as Dizzy’s Coca Cola Club (Jazz at Lincoln Center), Sony Music Hall, Tribeca Performing Arts Center, The 55 Bar, Minton’s Playhouse, The Rainbow Room, Cornelia Street Café, the Cell Theater, the Jazz Showcase (Chicago), and in 2021 opened for Alicia Keys in Antibes, France. A sought after side-woman, Tahira has lended her voice to numerous recording projects, performances, and songwriting collaborations. Tahira is also a well established creative teaching artist, clinician, and vocal coach. Tahira currently serves as the vice president and is a founding board member of the Women in Jazz Organization (WIJO), based in NYC. In addition to her work with WIJO, Tahira has traveled internationally to present lectures on her research entitled, “The Dangers of Jazz: Sexism in Society.” A 2015 graduate of the University of North Texas Tahira has performed and participated in master classes of many of the genre’s greats. Tahira’s debut album of all original compositions, “Wait, Till Now” is currently available for purchase and streaming.