Ann Hampton Callaway

Ann Hampton Callaway is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her versatile vocal abilities and extensive repertoire. She was born on May 30, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, to John Callaway, a journalist and film producer, and musician Shirley Calloway. She learned her love of jazz music from both, and she learned classical music from her mother.

Callaway’s career took off in the 1980s when she began performing in New York City’s vibrant jazz and cabaret scene. Over the years, she has performed in renowned venues like Carnegie Hall and London’s Donmar Theatre, having collaborated with esteemed musicians and orchestras worldwide, including the Wynton Marsalis Orchestra and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra.

Callaway has released numerous albums, with notable mentions of Ann Hampton Callaway (1992), Bring Back Romance (1994), and To Ella with Love (1996), where she showcased her diverse musical influences and styles. Her music spans jazz, pop, cabaret, and Broadway. She has also made appearances in theater productions, including roles on Broadway. She wrote songs for notable artists like Barbra Streisand and performed on film soundtracks.

In a 2013 interview, she discussed her commitment to LGBT civil rights, mentioning the importance of being true to oneself and the challenges she faced as a lesbian/bisexual individual in the public eye. Throughout her career, she has written songs addressing these issues and performed with gay choruses.

Callaway expressed gratitude for the progress made in terms of marriage equality but acknowledged the resistance that still exists. She emphasized her dedication to speaking out, raising funds, and supporting organizations that promote equality and educate others about the LGBT community. Callaway also shared how she came to better understand her sexuality and her plans to continue advocating for people to embrace their true selves.