About.
Paula Saunders is a jazz vocalist from Kansas City who quite literally has Kansas City Jazz in her veins. Her Great Uncle, Ellis Bartee was a phenomenal jazz drummer in Kansas City in the 1950s, who played
with such legendary jazz artists as Jay McShann, Illinois Jacquet And His Orchestra, Jack Costanzo And his Orchestra, Bettye Miller Trio, and Big Jay McNeely.
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Paula’s claim to fame is the ability to sing beautifully in the alto and tenor range, something that is uncommon among many female vocalists. Her rich, sultry tone has been compared to such voices as
Lalah Hathaway, Oleta Adams, and Anita Baker. But coming from a church background means she can also reach those high notes that are an integral part of gospel music. With a vocal range that covers so much of the spectrum, Paula is often considered one of the most versatile singers in Kansas City.
Paula has released two projects so far. “Introducing Paula Saunders,” a collection of jazz standards and includes such timeless music as “Summertime,” “All of Me,” and “Autumn Leaves.” Also a Christmas EP, “Merry Christmas from Paula Saunders.” On this project Paula shows off her range and vocal ability with an a capella version of Vince Guaraldi’s “Skating.” Paula has worked with nationally known producer Asaph Ward, and she has been the opening act for such chart-topping artists as Lalah Hathaway, Joe, Kenny Lattimore, Mint Condition, and Ruben Studdard.
In addition to solo work, Paula has also had her vocals featured on the album of National recording bass players, Julian Vaughn and Blair Bryant. Paula is also one of the lead vocalists in The Freedom Affair, a funk/soul 9-piece band out of Kansas City. The Freedom Affair’s music has been featured on an Apple watch commercial, the Netflix mini-series “Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker,” and "Bel-Air" on Peacock.
