About Gregory Porter
Tough Upbringing
Gregory was born November 4, 1971, to a minister mother with seven siblings in Sacramento, CA and moved to Bakersfield soon after. He grew up singing in church but lacked a father figure. His father was mostly absent from his life which left lasting pain.
Porter received a full ride athletic scholarship to San Diego State University. However, he eventually ended his chances at a football career due to a shoulder injury.
He and his brother relocated in Brooklyn, NY and while working as a chef he worked on his performances, securing a weekly gig at St. Nick's Jazz Pub and eventually forming his touring band.
Career Highlights
Gregory originally signed on with Motema Music for the release of his first two albums, but moved on to Blue Note Records and worked with Brian Bacchus to produce his Grammy-winning third album.
The album reached Top 10 in the U.K and was also certified Gold by the BPI Music.
Porter performed on television in London singing “As Time Goes By” to commemorate VE Day.
He was on the ticket for the Glastonbury Festival in 2016 alongside singers such as
Adele,
Beck,
Coldplay and
Ellie Goulding.
His fourth album “Take Me to the Alley” was released in 2016 and many fans are looking forward to hearing anything this creamy baritone jazzer will come out with next.