Jennifer Batten, an iconic American guitarist, has left an indelible mark on the world of music through her prolific career as a session musician and solo artist. Born on November 29, 1957, in Upstate New York, Batten rose to prominence during her tenure as the lead guitarist for the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, from 1987 to 1997. Her exceptional skills were showcased on all three of Jackson’s world tours during that period, solidifying her reputation as one of the foremost guitarists in the industry.
In the late ’90s, Jennifer Batten continued to captivate audiences by collaborating with another guitar virtuoso, Jeff Beck, touring and recording with him from 1999 to 2001. Throughout her career, she has released three studio albums, each showcasing her versatility and innovative approach to the instrument. Her debut album, “Above Below and Beyond” (1992), produced by former Stevie Wonder guitarist Michael Sembello, set the stage for her distinctive sound.
Batten’s musical journey continued with the worldbeat-influenced “Jennifer Batten’s Tribal Rage: Momentum” in 1997 and “Whatever,” a captivating album released on CD and DVD in Japan in 2007 and worldwide in 2008. Her outstanding contributions to the world of guitar earned her the prestigious “She Rocks Icon Award” in January 2016.
With a career spanning decades, Jennifer Batten remains a vital force in the music industry. Since 2021, she has been an integral part of the world tour for the Michael Jackson musical “This is Michael,” enthralling audiences with her electrifying performances in Europe and Latin America.