Born in 1969, in Montreal to West-Indian parents, Joanne Griffith grew up in a vibrant multicultural environment, speaking English at home and French at school. In high school, she discovered a passion for the stage whether expressed in dance, theater or song.

In 1989, she became a member of the Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir where she learned the magic of 50 voices that unite melody, harmony and rhythm to become one. The performance for Nelson Mandela, during his visit of Montreal, remains undoubtedly one of the greatest moments shared with the choir.

After 10 years spent with this ensemble, Joanne Griffith was anxious for an opportunity to share music that goes beyond the boundaries of a gospel choir. At that time she offered her first solo concert at Club Soda in Montreal. She delved into the repertoire of musics which have influenced her (jazz, blues, gospel, folk, R&B, soul) - a most eclectic assortment of songs.

With a wealth of experience behind her, Joanne Griffith launched her career as a singer on numerous stages in and around Montreal.

Inspired by the work and courage of singers such as Nina Simone and Ella Fitzgerald, who performed in styles that went beyond cultural and language barriers, Joanne Griffith aspires to the transmission of songs which testify to the cultural evolution of Montreal. It is in this spirit that, with the complicity of Jean-Francois Garneau, she released a first album, which is faithful to its inspirations, in autumn 2004, YoYe.

Official Web Site: www.joannegriffith.com

YoYe (2004)