RANKY TANKY

Ranky Tanky has been a trailblazer for South Carolina’s Gullah community since their inception, achieving a significant milestone by winning the Best Regional Roots Album at the 2019 GRAMMY Awards for their sophomore release, *Good Time*. This acclaimed album not only topped Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Chart but also weaves together traditional songs from the Sea Islands of the Southeastern United States with the band’s original compositions, all rooted in the Gullah tradition. Described by NPR as “soulful honey to the ears,” Ranky Tanky’s music has garnered attention from The New York Times, NPR’s Fresh Air, and The TODAY Show, where they performed live.

Hailing from Charleston, South Carolina, Ranky Tanky—meaning “get funky” in Gullah—consists of five lifelong friends who serve as passionate ambassadors for their local culture. They are dedicated to preserving the rich traditions developed by African Americans in the coastal South during slavery, ensuring these cultural legacies remain vibrant today. The band has been featured on NPR’s Fresh Air, The TODAY Show, PBS Newshour, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert's #playathome series. They were also honored to perform at President Biden’s inauguration event, *We The People*.

Join Ranky Tanky at this year’s Springfield Jazz & Roots festival and experience the soulful rhythms and heritage of the Gullah tradition brought to life through their extraordinary music.

MS. LISA FISCHER

Lisa Fischer, an unparalleled vocalist, captivates audiences with her boundless talent and magnetic stage presence. With a Grammy and Oscar to her name, she effortlessly navigates various musical genres, from soul and jazz to rock and gospel. While renowned for her decades-long collaboration with music legends like the Rolling Stones and Luther Vandross, Fischer now forges her own path with Grand Baton, exploring new musical horizons.

Despite her illustrious career as a backup singer, Fischer's journey took a transformative turn with the release of the Oscar-winning documentary "20 Feet From Stardom" in 2013. This introspective moment prompted her to redefine her musical trajectory, leading her to embrace her solo artistry with newfound vigor.

Her performances, described as addictive and transcendent, showcase her remarkable vocal range and versatility. Andy Gilbert praises Fischer's ability to seamlessly blend genres, creating intimate yet electrifying musical experiences. Fischer's voice, described as a force of nature, has the power to transport audiences to whole new universes of her own design.

With Grand Baton by her side, Fischer explores a far-ranging repertoire of songs, infusing each performance with soul, affectionate humor, and exquisite taste. From intimate, artful renditions to fierce funk and rock anthems, Fischer's concerts offer a diverse sonic journey that leaves audiences spellbound.

In the words of Roberta Flack, Fischer's talent is a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon, dazzling like Haley's Comet and illuminating the world with her brilliance. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Fischer remains a beacon of inspiration, pushing the boundaries of music and captivating audiences with her unparalleled artistry.

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