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.

Www.franksenior.com