Paulette McWilliams

“Paulette McWilliams is a great jazz  singer – better yet, a great singer.”  —Chaka Khan

Paulette McWilliams is a highly esteemed American vocalist, recognized for her powerful, soulful voice and her versatility across a wide range of musical genres, including R&B, jazz, pop, and rock. Over the course of her distinguished career, she has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music and made significant contributions both as a solo artist and a sought-after background vocalist.

Early Life and Beginnings

Paulette McWilliams was born in Chicago, Illinois, where she grew up surrounded by the vibrant music scene that defined the city. From an early age, McWilliams demonstrated an extraordinary vocal talent and quickly became known for her rich, velvety voice, characterized by its emotional depth and incredible range. Her love for music was nurtured by her exposure to gospel, jazz, and rhythm and blues, which influenced her early singing style.

Career Breakthrough

McWilliams first gained widespread attention as the lead vocalist for Ask Rufus, the original lineup of the band later known as Rufus, which became famous after Chaka Khan joined as lead singer. Paulette’s dynamic stage presence and stunning voice were critical to the group’s early success. She sang on their first album and performed extensively with them, laying the groundwork for what would become a lifelong career in the music industry.

Collaborations with Iconic Artists

Perhaps what Paulette McWilliams is best known for is her extensive work as a background vocalist for some of the most iconic artists in music history. Her voice has graced countless recordings and live performances, adding a unique richness to the works of artists such as:  

• Michael Jackson: McWilliams’ work with Jackson includes performing background vocals on some of his most famous tracks. Her voice can be heard adding depth and harmony to his legendary sound.
• Quincy Jones: Paulette has had a long-running professional relationship with Quincy Jones, one of the most influential producers and arrangers in music. She has performed on many of his productions, including the album “The Dude,” which is celebrated as a hallmark of pop and R&B excellence.
• Luther Vandross: One of her most notable contributions was as a key background vocalist for Luther Vandross. McWilliams not only toured with Vandross for years but was also an integral part of the famous “Vandross sound,” known for its lush, emotional vocal arrangements. In fact, McWilliams is often credited as one of the key voices that shaped his music, and many fans are unaware that McWilliams sang the original demos of some of Vandross’ biggest hits.
• Steely Dan: Paulette’s work with the jazz-rock band Steely Dan is another highlight of her career. She has performed with them both in the studio and in concert, contributing to the intricate harmonies and distinctive sound for which the band is known.
• Bette Midler, Aretha Franklin, Billy Idol, Whitney Houston, and many more: McWilliams’ voice has appeared on records and in performances for these and other legendary artists, further solidifying her reputation as one of the most in-demand session and touring singers in the industry.

Solo Career

Though she is best known for her background work, Paulette McWilliams has also pursued a solo career. Her solo albums, including “A Woman’s Story” and “Flow”, showcase her impressive vocal abilities and offer a mix of jazz, R&B, and soul. These records highlight her ability to tell stories through her music, capturing deep emotions and delivering them with sincerity and passion. Her album “Telling Stories” (released in 2020) is a perfect example of her versatility. It features McWilliams’ interpretations of classic jazz standards, demonstrating her skill as a jazz vocalist and her mastery of phrasing, timing, and emotional expression. The album received praise for its elegance and McWilliams’ ability to breathe new life into beloved songs from the Great American Songbook.

Recent Projects

Paulette McWilliams continues to record and perform worldwide, collaborating with a wide range of artists and delivering performances that consistently captivate audiences. Her work has been featured in various concerts, television performances, and music festivals. In addition to her musical endeavors, McWilliams is often called upon to share her experiences and insights as a veteran in the music industry, offering mentorship to aspiring singers and musicians. In 2022, Paulette released her latest album, “These Are The Sweet Things”, produced by longtime friend and collaborator David Paich of Toto, along with Michael B. Nelson. The album blends elements of jazz, soul, and R&B, and showcases McWilliams’ extraordinary vocal talent while paying homage to the artists and songs that have shaped her illustrious career.

Legacy

Paulette McWilliams is regarded as one of the finest vocalists of her generation. Her contributions to music, both as a solo artist and as a background vocalist, are immense and far-reaching. Known for her professionalism, humility, and undeniable talent, she has earned the respect of her peers and a place in the hearts of music lovers around the world. Her ability to adapt her voice to different styles while maintaining her unique sound has made her a legend in the industry. Paulette McWilliams’ influence and voice will continue to resonate through the work of the countless artists she has supported, as well as through her own deeply moving solo performances. Her ability to adapt her voice to different styles while maintaining her unique sound has made her a legend in the industry. Paulette McWilliams’ influence and voice will continue to resonate through the work of the countless artists she has supported, as well as through her own deeply moving solo performances.