Nnenna Freelon is a seven-time Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist, composer, producer, author, and passionate advocate for arts education. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, she has released twelve critically acclaimed albums and performed on prestigious stages around the world—from the North Sea Jazz Festival to the Hollywood Bowl—bringing artistry, soul, and cultural depth to audiences across the globe. Freelon is also the creator and host of Great Grief, an award-winning podcast that delves into the emotional terrain of love and loss through music and storytelling. Recognized in 2021 by the Public Media Journalists Association as one of the best narrative podcasts on grief, the series offers a soulful invitation to improvise in the midst of mourning. Married for 40 years to renowned architect Philip G. Freelon, FAIA, Phil and Nnenna shared a creative family life rooted in culture and community. In 2016, Phil was diagnosed with ALS. He approached his illness with the same clarity, adaptability, and intentionality that defined his architectural legacy—including his role as lead architect of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.