Celebrating Volora Howell:
A Trailblazer in Jazz and Television

Citrus Connect | March 3, 2024

As Women’s History Month unfolds, it's essential to shine a spotlight on remarkable women who have left an indelible mark in their respective fields. Among these luminaries is Volora Howell, a name synonymous with jazz excellence and television innovation.

For over three decades, Volora Howell has called Orange home, but her influence extends far beyond city limits. As an accomplished Jazz Singer and vocalist, she has graced the stages of New York City's most iconic venues, including the legendary Lenox Lounge, Blue Note, Sugar Hill Bistro, Copeland’s, and the 5-Spot. Her voice has traveled across continents, captivating audiences in Italy, Japan, the UK, Trinidad and Tobago, and Grenada. Yet, Volora's impact transcends her performances.

Volora is the epitome of a multifaceted talent, seamlessly blending her musical prowess with a keen eye for television production. The culmination of her passions birthed "The Volora Show," a weekly 30-minute talk variety show that serves as a vibrant tapestry of the New York jazz and classic R&B scene. Originally airing on Primetime Time Warner New York Cable to over 850,000 viewers, the show's reach expanded exponentially when it graced screens nationwide through the BET J Network, reaching over 25 million homes.

What sets Volora apart is not just her ability to entertain but her commitment to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard. Through "The Volora Show," she provided a platform for some of the most influential figures in music, including John Legend, Melba Moore, Dizzy Gillespie, McCoy Tyner, Art Blakey, Betty Carter, Wayne Shorter, and Oliver Lake.

Beyond the screen, Volora is a trailblazer in the realm of television production. As the Executive Producer of Sahara Entertainment Productions, she spearheads the creation of original programming that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions. Simultaneously, she serves as President of Sahara Entertainment Inc., a beacon of innovation in the music industry.

As we honor the contributions of women throughout history, let us not overlook the luminaries who continue to shape our cultural landscape. Volora stands as a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the power of talent, resilience, and unwavering determination. Her legacy serves as a reminder that the pursuit of excellence knows no bounds, and with passion as our compass, we can defy expectations and leave an indelible mark on the world.

Pictures and video courtesy of Volora Howell