Primary Instrument: Vocal
Ursula Walker has been a mainstay of the Detroit music world for 54 years, beginning at the age of eleven on Detroit television and radio. Pursuing her career in her hometown while raising four children, her outstanding talents as a unique stylist of ballads, standards, and jazz gained her national recognition among her peers.
In the 60s, 70s, and 80s Ursula fielded many offers to tour nationally with many notable musicians such as Stan Kenton, the Harry James Band, Count Basie, and Tony Bennett. Over the years she has performed at countless clubs, concerts, and festivals, frequently at the Detroit International Jazz Festival. She has opened for many well-known performers, including Dizzy Gillespie, Oscar Peterson, and Tania Maria.
Ursula has been the recipient of numerous honors and awards, among them a Clio Award for best vocal performance of a commercial jingle; election to the Metro Times Jazz Hall of Fame; the Midwest Arts Legends of Jazz Hall of Fame Award; the MCA Outstanding Musicians Award; the Detroit Metro Area Musicians and Entertainers Association Teddy Harris, Jr. Legendary Award; and the 2007 Southern Christian Leadership Conference Aretha Franklin Award for outstanding achievement in the Performing Arts.
