“It helps me to learn things in different languages, even if it's just phonetically, and to make myself vulnerable to other audiences by trying to reflect back to them the genius of their own cultures, and to do that, oftentimes, in new jazz settings, new arrangements. It's a way to show respect.”

American jazz singer and songwriter

Kurt Elling is an American jazz singer and songwriter. He is known for his work in modern jazz and for a vocal style that has drawn wide attention within the genre. As a performer and writer, Elling has built his reputation through jazz singing and songwriting. His name is associated with contemporary jazz performance, where his work is recognized for its musical craft and for songs shaped by the traditions of the style.