We had the good fortune of connecting with Sky Covington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sky, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
My favorite quote is a piece of advice from my mother: “You’re only as good as your last gig.” Initially, I was taken aback, but over time, I’ve come to appreciate its wisdom. It drives me to stay current, tirelessly thinking about the next production and ensuring it holds value for my audience and family. I aim to create moments on stage that are not just entertaining but also enduring, something my children can witness and be proud of. This quote serves as a constant motivation, guiding my career with a focus on delivering quality and leaving a positive impact.
 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Absolutely, I’d be delighted to share my story with you. I’ve been immersed in the vibrant jazz scene of Detroit, and it’s been an incredible journey that goes beyond just performing on stage. I see myself as a living embodiment of the city’s rich musical legacy, and I’ve had the privilege of contributing to it for over two decades.

**Jazz Residencies: A Musical Odyssey**

My journey through Detroit’s jazz landscape has been quite dynamic. Take, for instance, Woodbridge Pub, where I host a lively Sunday night jam session, collaborating with exceptional talents like Ibrahim Jones, Phil Harmonic, and Terrance Neal. Over the past eight years, Baker’s Keyboard Lounge has been my Wednesday night haven, where I shine as the Master of Ceremonies and singer with the OGD trio. At the Tangent Gallery, I orchestrate monthly performances of jazz standards and originals, showcasing the breadth of my musicality. And then there are memorable performances at Gina’s Jazz Club, Harbor House, Exodos Rooftop, and even the Audubon Hotel in New Orleans – each stage contributing to my musical artistry.

**Management and Artist Development: Shaping the Future of Jazz**

Beyond the spotlight, I’m deeply involved in shaping the future of jazz through my roles at Unlimited Sky Production LLC and Nicole Freeman Management. At Unlimited Sky Production LLC, I’m involved in crafting, promoting, and directing specialty jazz shows, where I also take on the mentorship of young musicians. With Nicole Freeman Management, I secure bookings and recording opportunities for artists like Sky Covington and Nikki-O, managing everything from social media accounts to the intricate details of event management.

**Producer/Director: A Creative Visionary**

My creative endeavors extend to producing and directing, showcasing my commitment to preserving and celebrating the jazz legacy. Projects like “TAKE 5: Great Men of Jazz” and “The Abbey Lincoln Tribute” are particularly close to my heart. The long-running “Satin Doll Revue” pays homage to iconic women of jazz, and my livestream concert, “Hyped Up Live Sessions,” brought my artistry to a global audience.

**Noteworthy Performances: A Voice That Echoes**

I’ve been fortunate to perform in prestigious venues, such as opening for Johnathan Butler and Kirk Whalum at Chene Park, making my New York debut at the Metropolitan Room, and even embarking on a World Tour with Mahogani Music and Kenny Dixon.

**Discography: A Sonic Journey**

My discography, comprising solo and collaborative efforts, reflects my deep commitment to musical expression. Albums like “Rough, Rugged, Raw” and “Club Crescendo Vol. 3” have earned accolades, including multiple Detroit Music Awards.

**Awards and Accolades: Recognizing Excellence**

I’m honored to have received a string of Detroit Music Awards, including Outstanding Jazz Vocalist, Traditional Jazz Artist/Group, and more. The Spirit of Detroit Award and Detroit Black Music Award further attest to my impact on the cultural landscape.

**Community Service: Beyond the Stage**

I’m not just a performer; I’m a community builder. As the founder and organizer of Hug Detroit Day, I’ve received recognition, including the 10th Annual Hug Detroit Day Founders Spirit Award.

**Education and Technical Training: Nurturing Artistic Growth**

My artistic growth has been nurtured through education at Westside Unity Drama School and ongoing mentorship with music luminary Perry Hughes and voice coach Scott Reiter.

In essence, my journey is a testament to the transformative power of music, transcending boundaries and uplifting communities. I see myself not just as a jazz artist, but as a cultural force, a mentor, and a visionary.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
On Saturdays, we gather for a special dinner at my house to observe the Sabbath. It’s a tradition filled with prayer, laughter, and a hearty meal. Sunday brings us to Woodbridge for my weekly resident gig and jam session with my band Club Crescendo ( Ibrahim Jones on Upright Bass, Phil Hale on Keys & Terrance Neal on Drums, . Mondays are dedicated to the Caxieu Cafe on the east side, followed by a night of slow jams and fish tacos back at Woodbridge Pub. Tuesdays, I join David Brandon’s office for some enjoyable time with Phil Hale on keys and Ibrahim Jones on bass.

Midweek, Wednesdays are reserved for Gwen’s Foxy Wednesday, a delightful cocktail evening with Ted Nadgey Gwen Fox, and Derek Gillis. Thursdays, we head to Bert’s for a jam session in the East Market, Hosted by Bill Myeres the oldest jam in the city. Fridays are split between Bakers Keyboard lounge to see Gerard Gibbs, Gaylynn Mckinney and Ralph Armstrong, and a visit to Inner Zone on the east side at Cornerstone Bar & Grill with Nina Simone and her husband Terrence Neil on drums.

Saturdays, we take our time to express gratitude to the most high before starting the cycle anew. Beyond the music scene, I find solace by the water, praying and meditating at Belle Isle. The Psychedelics Shack is a go-to for herbs, while the Water Station supplies our hydration needs. Supporting black-owned businesses is a priority, so lunch takes us to Detroit’s first-ever black-owned food hall on the Westside. Shopping at Flo’s and exploring contemporary art at N’Namdi Center & the Artist Village in Redford with Chaz, Alicia and John George will wrap up our diverse week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to the most high Yah. Reflecting on my past, I recognize that I was leading a seemingly lawless lifestyle, lacking direction. It wasn’t until I immersed myself in scripture and learned about both societal and biblical laws that my life underwent a profound transformation, bringing much-needed structure.

This transformative journey also reunited me with my husband, William Freeman, after nearly 25 years of separation. Our remarriage brought immense joy, and his gift to me was the blessing of becoming a stepmom to his children. This role became a highlight in both my life and career, shaping me in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. Balancing responsibilities for my stepchildren and caring for my husband brought a newfound equilibrium that positively impacted my career.

In return, my family deserves immense credit for the blessings that followed. Twelve music awards, accolades from the city, special tributes from the state of Michigan, and recognition as a pillar of society in my community—all these blessings are a testament to the support and balance I found within my family.

Beyond family, my two-decade dedication to the Billie Holiday tribute fueled my passion. However, amidst this journey, a sense of loneliness emerged. Desiring to build connections and sisterhood, I created the Satin Dollar Review production. Surrounded by incredible vocalists, including mentors like Thornetta Davis, Kimmie Horne, Tosha Owens, Nina Simone Neal, Gwen Foxx and others, my life took on new dimensions.

In addition, the impactful presence of men like Walter Miller, Darryl Walker, the late Harold Bowls, the late Scott Reiter, Phil Hale, Perry Hughes, Ralph Armstrong, Bert Deering, Ibrahim Jones, Kenny Dixon, Darrel Smith, and Larry Love became instrumental in shaping my perspective on men. Their mentorship and friendship have been invaluable, influencing not only my personal life but also leaving a lasting imprint on my career.

Website: https://www.skycovington.net

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ft.skycovingtonisnikkio/p/CwdqK1HuuTh/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sky-covington-5206996

Twitter: https://twitter.com/skycovington?lang=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skycovingtonofficialpage

Other: https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/sky-covington/ https://soundcloud.com/sky-covington https://open.spotify.com/artist/4i0ZISBtbrtT76PkxXxHNN http://musicwikidetroit.org/index.php/Sky_Covington

Image Credits
Walter Miller Jeff Dunn Dori Sumter William Freeman

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