EKEP NKWELLE / SATURDAY + SUNDAY, MAY 16 + 17 /

The Story

A rising star on the New York jazz scene, 26-year-old Cameroonian-American singer Ekep Nkwelle came to the Big Apple from her hometown of Washington D.C. in 2023 to study at The Juilliard School and shortly thereafter captivated such legendary figures as Wynton Marsalis, who has showcased her with his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and pianist Kenny Barron, who featured her on two songs from his 2025 album, Songbook. 

Having made stellar appearances at the 2025 Newport Jazz Festival and more recently at the 2026 NYC Winter Jazzfest, Nkwelle is ready to unleash her rich, soulful, soaring voice in her Exit Zero Jazz Festival debut.

The Sound

With a voice that radiates power, passion and warmth, echoing such role models as Abbey Lincoln, Sarah Vaughan and Betty Carter, Ekep brings a fervent gospel-tinged exuberance to jazz that feels timeless. Expect a night of soulful storytelling and music that lingers long after the last note.

Where & When: Carney’s Other Room, Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17 TBD

Her voice has captivated legendary jazz figures such as Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Barron, Dianne Reeves, the late Russell Malone, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Cyrus Chestnut, earning her multiple opportunities to collaborate with these luminaries.

A dynamic performer, Ekep has left her mark on world-renowned stages such as the Nice Jazz Festival, Umbria Jazz Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, Carnegie Hall, NPR’s Tiny Desk, and SFJAZZ.

After earning her Master’s Degree in 2023, she received the Juilliard Career Advancement Grant, nominated by Marsalis, in recognition of her talent and potential. In addition to performing, she is committed to arts education, having attended Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Howard University, and The Juilliard School. Her involvement with key organizations like The National Jazz Museum in Harlem, Jazz Houston, and The Woodshed Network highlights her dedication to cultural engagement and giving back to her community.