“Syndee Winters sings Lena Horne: The Makings of a Lady,”
Myron’s at The Smith Center, January 10
Ira sits down with powerhouse vocalist and performer Syndee Winters, currently starring in “Syndee Winters Sings Lena Horne: The Makings of a Lady” in Myron’s at The Smith Center on January 10.
Syndee shares her unique and deeply personal journey—from growing up in Queens as a first-generation American with Chinese-Jamaican roots, to discovering jazz through reggae, thanks to an uncle with a record label in Jamaica. With a background that spans musical theater, dance, and Broadway (including making a dream come true in “The Lion King”), Syndee’s artistry defies easy labels.
In this conversation, she opens up about being compared to Sarah Vaughan, finding Lena Horne through “The Wiz,” and why she doesn’t try to imitate Lena’s voice—but instead captures her spirit, strength, and elegance. Inspired by a suggestion from friend and Broadway star Chester Gregory, Syndee created a Broadway-style jazz concert in which she portrays nine different artists, all filtered through her own creative lens.
The episode is also a powerful reflection on believing in yourself, honoring mentors, showing up “properly,” and the importance of family—especially her parents who still physically show up for almost every performance. Syndee also explains why she’ll never “age out” of her Lena Horne tribute and how the jazz community welcomed her with open arms.
This is more than a show—it’s a celebration of legacy, identity, and artistry, told by an artist who knows exactly who she is.
Syndee Winters is an American singer, recording artist, and actress. Best known for her role as “Nala,” in Disney’s “The Lion King.” Syndee’s other credits include lead roles in “Motown the Musical,” “Pippin,” “Jesus Christ Superstar” on NBC, and “Hamilton.”
In 2020, Syndee founded R.O.A.R., a theatre arts workshop helping artists navigate the industry. Inspired by the art of storytelling, Syndee’s tours the world celebrating the life and music of American Icon, Lena Horne, in a one-woman concert “Lessons from a Lady”, inspired by her debut Jazz vocal album Lessons: From A Lady: A Dedication to Lena Horne.
Syndee’s latest recording project with GRAMMY® winning producer Ben Williams entitled, “Butterfly Black” a new exciting R&B duo that’s bursting with infectious energy for our post-pandemic times is available everywhere now.
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