Milton Suggs’s voice and music reflect not only his direct lineage, but also the profound heritage of African-American music and culture from the past century and beyond. Firmly rooted in the blues, Milton’s rich baritone echoes the breadth and power of Joe Williams, while his soulful intensity brings to mind singers like Donny Hathaway. His velvet tones are reminiscent of Nat King Cole. Milton has a unique ability to evoke deep emotion through masterful phrasing and dynamics. As a gifted composer, arranger, and lyricist, his music is both honest and inventive, drawing from Hard-bop, Soul, and R&B to forge a distinct identity. A visionary artist, Suggs seeks to pave new roads within the vast traditions that have come before him, grounding his artistry in the spirit, struggles, triumphs, and stories of previous generations.

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Voted repeatedly as a top 10 rising star male vocalist in Downbeat Magazine’s annual critic’s poll, Milton’s talents have gained increasing recognition. Throughout his career, he has worked with renowned artists and bands such as the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Orrin Evans, Wycliffe Gordon, Ulysses Owens, and Marquis Hill, among others. Milton has also been dedicated to his efforts as a recording artist, producing five albums to date and continually developing new projects with new ensembles.

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Born in Chicago, IL, and a third-generation musician, Suggs recognized music as a gift from a young age and later accepted it as his calling. Growing up in Atlanta, GA, he was exposed to various musical styles and began singing and performing with his church choir at the age of seven. In elementary and middle school, he gravitated toward the upright bass, later playing the alto saxophone and drums. However, it was not until after high school that he committed to music as his life’s work. Returning to Chicago, he studied piano with the legendary Willie Pickens while honing his craft as a vocalist and performer. In 2012, Milton moved to New York, where he quickly established himself, performing throughout the city and branching out internationally as a performer and educator.

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Today, Milton Suggs continues to blaze a trail as a vocalist, composer, and educator, touring worldwide as both a sideman and leader. He embraces each opportunity to explore new creative terrain and further the legacy left by his predecessors.