Frank Senior with Peter Bernstein Trio, (Peter Bernstein, Neal Miner and Jason Brown) enjoyed 2 packed performances at New York's Birdland Theater. Enjoy this video of Frank Senior singing "You Don't Know Me", from his CD "Let's Be Frank".
Recorded on November 4, 2023
Video- Marco di Gennaro
National Endowment for the Arts Award Winner and Stylish Jazz Vocalist
Frank Senior – Jazz Vocalist and Innovator
Born in 1953 and raised in the Lincoln Projects of Harlem, Frank Senior is an acclaimed jazz vocalist whose smooth, soulful voice has opened doors to stages around the world. Blind from birth, Frank’s love for jazz was ignited at an early age, and he developed his vocal prowess through performances at local clubs and mentorship from New York’s top jazz artists. His voice, often compared to the likes of Ray Charles and Nat King Cole, is celebrated for its effortless swing and emotional depth, captivating audiences for over 35 years.
Career Highlights & Venues
Frank’s career has taken him to some of New York’s most iconic jazz clubs, including Smalls, Birdland, Smoke Jazz & Supper Club, and BrownstoneJAZZ. His performances extend to prestigious venues such as the United Nations, Gracie Mansion, St. Peter’s Church, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium. Frank also holds a weekly residency at the Williamsburg Music Center, where he performs alongside guitarist Jerry Eastman every Friday night, a separate gig that highlights his deep connection with live audiences.
Frank’s voice has also led him to perform at international festivals such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival and the Morocco Jazz Festival, allowing him to share his gift with audiences worldwide and immerse himself in the global jazz community.
Awards & Recognition
Frank’s contributions to jazz have been widely recognized throughout his career. He is a recipient of a prestigious grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the New York Foundation of the Arts’ City Artist Corps Grant. His other honors include placing second in the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival’s “Jazz Voice” competition and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the VISIONS Bronx Advisory Board.
Recordings & Publications
Frank has released two well-received albums, Senior Center of Love and Listening in the Dark, which are available on major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. He has also been featured as a vocalist on albums like Jacob Melchior’s It’s About Time and Music Speaks Louder Than Words by Jamhunters. His story and work have been covered by publications such as The Guardian and New York Daily News, and he has appeared in national commercials, including a memorable segment on What Would You Do? with John Quiñones. Frank also served as a consultant for Alec Baldwin’s movie Blind and starred in the documentary Just Be Frank.
New Ventures & Projects
Beyond music, Frank is passionate about advancing technology to benefit blind individuals. He is currently engaged in a work-study project with Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, exploring how this innovative technology can enhance accessibility and independence for the visually impaired. Additionally, a forthcoming documentary by filmmaker Serena Dykman will offer an intimate look at Frank’s life and his influential career in jazz.
Personal Life
Frank’s personal journey is grounded in resilience and family. He has been married for 50 years, and his family—including his daughter, son-in-law, and grandson—remains a constant source of joy and inspiration. Their love and support have been integral to his success, both personally and professionally.
For more information about Frank Senior, his music, and his upcoming projects, visit www.franksenior.com. Whether performing on stage or exploring new technological frontiers, Frank Senior continues to inspire audiences and break new ground in both the jazz and accessibility communities.
DATES
Frank Senior Live
Experience the Mesmerizing Jazz Vocals of
Frank Senior!
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FRANK SENIOR DOCUMENTARY
Serena Dykkman Filmmaker
In December 2023, filming began on the documentary,
about the life of New York City's, esteemed jazz vocalist Frank Senior! The documentary filming will continue in May 2024. Check back for updates on this exciting project!
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RESIDENCY AT
THE WILLIAMSBURG MUSIC CENTER
Join us every Friday night at the Williamsburg music club, located at 367 Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, NY, for an unforgettable evening with Frank Senior, a blind jazz vocalist from New York. From 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM, be captivated by Frank Senior's soulful melodies and rhythmic charm.
To reserve your spot for this exceptional musical experience, call 718-384-1654.
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SANKOFA ABAN BROWNSTONE JAZZ
Saturday, November 2, 2024
2 Sets 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM
Featuring Frank Senior
107 Macon St. Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn NY
Tickets
​JAZZ CONCERT IN DORI'S SKY ROOM
LAFAYETTE HARRIS WITH FRANK SENIOR
Sunday, December 1, 2024 | 3:00 PM
Jamaica Queens Central Library
89-11 Merrick Blvd, Jamaica, NY
Library Website
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89-11 Merrick Blvd.
Jamaica NY 11432
NEWS
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Frank Senior's News Stand
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Dear New Yorkers,
Imagine a vibrant corner where the rhythm of the city meets the harmony of community spirit; this is Senior's News Stand on the bustling north-west corner of 42nd Street and 5th Avenue. This isn't just another news stand - it's an urban jazz melody played out in the heart of Manhattan.
Our conductor? Frank Senior, a dazzling jazz vocalist who's known for his soulful melodies, who also happens to be the city's last blind news operator. Alongside him is Pradeep, a trusted business partner with a heart as sweet as our candy assortment.
Just as a jazz ensemble weaves together saxophones, trumpets, and bass into a harmonious whole, our stand offers a rich medley of items. From a diverse range of thirst-quenching beverages to a symphony of candies that hit all the sweet, sour, and savory notes, we've got your cravings covered.
And let's not forget about our repertoire of miscellaneous merchandise. Need a pen to jot down a sudden spark of inspiration? Or a quick snack to keep the rhythm of your day going? Or perhaps a winning lotto ticket to make your day really swing? We've got all of these and more to fulfill your needs for the day.
Whether you're chasing the crescendo of your day or slowing down to a soothing adagio, our newsstand provides the perfect accompaniment. And if you're lucky, you may even catch Frank on a good day, serenading the city with a tune or two.
We cordially invite you to drop by, say hi, and immerse yourself in the sweet jazz of city life at Senior's News Stand. You'll find it's more than a newsstand; it's a unique, musical corner of Manhattan that's ready to welcome you into its melody.
To get a taste of Frank's music.
See you soon at our corner of the city!
Best Regards,
Frank Senior & Pradeep
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A blind-from-birth New York City native who has been singing and performing for over 35 years. Recognized for swinging naturally, telling a lyric story without forcing, and a voice similar to Ray Charles, Nat King Cole, and Johnny Hartman.
Available for concerts, nightclubs, festivals, hotels, cruises, and any occasion that calls for first-class, professional, timeless entertainment.