Navasha Daya

Called an "Astral Soul Goddess" by the prestigious UK publication Mojo Magazine, Navasha Daya (nah Vah sha Day- ya) is an exceptionally gifted and seasoned singer, songwriter, producer, musician, performing arts curator, certified holistic wellness practitioner, and spiritual and cultural arts activist who from childhood was inspired and encouraged to use her voice and talents to uplift others and inspire change. Grammy - Award winning songstress, India.Arie, described Navasha's voice as "the true definition of soulful." Internationally recognized as a breath-taking performer, Navasha was nominated for female vocalist of the year for the Soultracks Reader's Choice Awards and has charted at #2 on both Japan's jazz and dance iTunes charts numerous times (usually second to Lady Gaga); she has also received international acclaim from her debut solo release "Rebirthed Above Ground ' - a genre - busting powerhouse of originality and soul-stirring lyrics. Prior to her solo release, Navasha served as lead vocalist, songwriter and co-founder of the highly acclaimed Baltimore based soul/jazz band, Fertile Ground. As a performing artist, Navasha has performed all over the globe and has shared the stage with a bevy of artists such as Hugh Masekela, Angelique Kidjo, India.Arie, Erykah Badu, Run DMC, Zap Mama, Rachelle Farrell, Common, Jill Scott, Joan Baez, Cassandra Wilson, Earl Klugh, Michael Franti of Spearhead and Roberta Flack. As a songwriter, Navasha Daya's compositions have been remixed by some of the world's top DJs and producers. In addition to her solo career as an indie-soul artist, Navasha toured for the past 2 years as a guest artist, singing with the Grammy Award winning a capella group "Sweet Honey In The Rock". As an arts educator and cultural arts activist Navasha has taught voice and music to elementary, middle, high school age children and youth for over 17 years, integrating character development, multiculturalism, and musicianship skills in her classes. Steadfast in her dedication to serving the community, she along with educator/musician/organizer Fanon Hill and 2 youth mentees co-founded the Baltimore City Youth Resiliency Institute (BCYRI), now the Youth Resiliency Institute (YRI) with the method of utilizing art and culture to bring community healing and social change. On stage, Navasha embodies the indigenous feminine spirit and inspires women throughout the world. Continuing the musical legacy of her cousin the late great Gil Scott Heron, and embodying the influences of the likes of Phyllis Hyman, Lyn Collins, Mahalia Jackson, Miriam Makeba, Mavis Staples... her live show fuses her eclectic mix of Soul-Jazz - Funk and World Rhythms while pulling from her blues lineage.