Anita Baker

Anita Baker established herself as a definitive voice in soul music, achieving widespread recognition for her expressive vocals and sophisticated sound. After achieving platinum sales and critical acclaim with her sophomore album Rapture in 1986, Anita Baker solidified her status as a definitive voice in soul music, delivering an impressive string of chart-topping hits and Grammy-winning albums. Baker initially joined the funk band Chapter 8 in 1975, releasing their debut album with Ariola Records in 1979. She then launched her solo career with the debut album The Songstress in 1983, which yielded her first R&B top ten single, ‘Angel.’ Following a legal dispute, Baker signed with Elektra Records in 1985, ensuring creative control over her material, a pivotal career move that paved the way for her breakthrough success.

Most recently, she captivated a national audience by performing ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ at the 2022 NFC Championship Game in 2023. Further solidifying her legendary status, Baker was ranked #92 on Rolling Stone’s 200 Greatest Singers of All Time list in 2023, underscoring her lasting influence and exceptional vocal artistry.