Izzy Gordon

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1980s

Genres

jazz, blues, funk, mpb

Instruments

vocals, piano

Biography

Izzy Gordon is a celebrated Brazilian singer and songwriter whose artistry seamlessly weaves together elements of jazz, blues, funk, rap, and MPB. Born into a remarkably musical household in São Paulo, she is the daughter of musician Dave Gordon and the niece of the legendary Dolores Duran. Growing up, her family home was a frequent gathering place for iconic figures of Brazilian popular music such as Tim Maia, Rita Lee, and Jair Rodrigues, who would visit for informal jam sessions around the very piano Izzy studied in her youth.

After briefly pausing her musical aspirations in her early youth, she recommitted to her passion at the age of twenty-one, inspired by the artistry of Stevie Wonder. She honed her craft performing in nightclubs alongside her father and quickly gained recognition through theatrical productions directed by José Possi Neto, including the musical "Emoções Baratas." Over the years, her versatile vocal talents led her to collaborate with numerous prominent Brazilian acts, ranging from Jorge Benjor and Ed Motta to Max de Castro and Rappin Hood, as well as performing alongside her brother Tony Gordon in critically acclaimed stage shows.

In 2005, she released her debut album, "Aos Mestres com Carinho - Homenagem a Dolores Duran," paying homage to her famous aunt and earning pre-nominations for both a Latin Grammy and the Prêmio TIM. Subsequent releases, such as "O Que Eu Tenho Pra Dizer" and "Negro Azul da Noite," further solidified her reputation as a vital interpreter of Black Brazilian composers and jazz-inflected vocal music. Her distinguished career has even garnered international praise, including exclusive performances for acclaimed producer Quincy Jones and rock band U2 during their visits to Brazil.