Premier entertainer Ramona Collins is a singer, songwriter, recording artist, educator, actress, emcee and radio host who grew up in Lansing MI. Now based out of Toledo, Ohio, her shows have made her an audience favorite at clubs, concerts and festivals wherever she goes. She covers all the flavors from honey to hot sauce, whether she is half of a duo or fronting an orchestra.
She has a commanding stage presence and a soulful voice. “The penetrating appeal of Ramona’s performance derives in large measure of course, from her rich, nimble and evocative voice, but there’s more. Her interpretations of familiar tunes convey wisdom, humor an almost ethereal goodwill that combines to create the impression of, not just a great singer, but a remarkable person sharing music and something more.”
Fritz Beyer, WGTE 91.3, Jazz Spectrum
Ramona is in demand as a guest vocalist and leader in the Michigan area, has hosted jam sessions and performed @ Baker’s Keyboard Lounge and Bert’s jazz club; performed at The Dirty Dog, Music Hall, London Chop House, Steinway Gallery, and Nikola’s to name a few, and been been honored for her contributions to the arts. She was nominated in the female jazz vocalist category for the Detroit Black Music Awards in 2011, is a Detroit Motown Ambassador through Duane Parham’s Education Society, and recently had the honor of opening for legends Jennifer Holliday and Gladys Knight.
She has recorded two independent albums, “Everything Old Is New Again” and “Live & Lovin’ It”, sung background vocals for bluesman Bobby G’s new album “Phd In The Blues”. Ramona’s recordings are available for download on cdbaby.com and she is currently working on original material for her next recording project.
Her trio of musicians for the gig will consist of Cliff Monear (piano), Jeff Pedraz (bass), & Jesse Kramer (drums).