Esperanza Spalding

Origin

Portland, OR

Also known as

Esperanza Emily Spalding

Genres

jazz, mpb, chamber jazz

Instruments

double bass, bass guitar, vocals, violin, cello

Biography

Esperanza Emily Spalding was born in Portland on October 18, 1984, and was raised by her mother, who heavily supported her early musical aspirations. Inspired by a Yo-Yo Ma performance at the age of four, she initially dedicated herself to the violin, eventually becoming the concertmaster of the Chamber Music Society of Oregon by age fifteen before transitioning to the double bass.

Known for singing in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, Spalding has cultivated a deep connection with Brazilian music and culture throughout her career. She has collaborated and performed with legendary Brazilian artists such as Milton Nascimento, with whom she released the acclaimed album Milton + esperanza in 2024, as well as recording alongside MPB singer Ana Carolina. Her profound appreciation for Brazilian sounds is further highlighted by performances at major events like Rock in Rio.

As a multi-Grammy-winning artist, composer, and educator who became the youngest instructor at the Berklee College of Music, Spalding bridges American jazz traditions with rich Latin American and Brazilian influences. She has shared stages with international jazz greats like Pat Metheny and Joe Lovano while cementing her legacy as a visionary bassist and vocalist within contemporary jazz.