Vanessa Collier with Laura Chavez

About the Artist

Vanessa Collier is an award-winning singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and
producer whose sixth album, Do It My Own Way (Phenix Fire Records), drops September 13
with the soulful thunder of Stax and Hi Records’ golden era. With analog production,
classic Memphis-style horn arrangements, and deeply personal songwriting, the album
draws on the legacy of Mavis Staples, Sharon Jones, and Aretha Franklin while asserting
Collier’s own bold voice in today’s blues and soul landscape.

The record features standout tracks like the anthemic “Wild As A Rainstorm,” which landed
on Spotify’s Retro Soul playlist, and the slinky, defiant title track “Do It My Own Way,” which
tackles sexism in the music industry head-on. From the noir-Americana of “Take Me Back”
to the gospel tribute “Rosetta” honoring Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and the heartfelt closer
“Warrior,” Collier’s songs are powered by emotional depth, vintage tones, and razor-sharp
musicianship. Her collaborators include legendary Hi Records organist Rev. Charles
Hodges and award-winning guitarist Laura Chavez.

A Berklee College of Music alumna and former member of Joe Louis Walker’s band, Collier
has emerged as one of the most vital voices in blues today. With four Blues Music Awards
to her name — including Horn Player of the Year and Contemporary Blues Female Artist of
the Year — she’s headlined major festivals like the Chicago Blues Festival and opened for
acts such as Blues Traveler. From Texas to Maryland, Philadelphia to South Carolina,
Collier’s journey has been anything but ordinary — and Do It My Own Way is her powerful
statement of self, delivered through groove, grit, and grace.