Dive deep into the life of Maria Jacobs on The Jazz Flyte Podcast with host Darrell. Maria, an accomplished American jazz vocalist and author of Syrian Lebanese and Armenian descent, shares her compelling story from her early musical influences in the crib to her distinguished career as an educator, conductor, and singer-songwriter. Graduating Cum Laude from Kent State University and serving as a beacon of hope and creativity through her work with The Open Tone Music Academy, Maria’s life is a testament to the power of music and resilience.

Maria opens up about her musical roots, influenced by her family's love for the big band era, and her personal admiration for artists like Teena Marie, Stevie Wonder, and Ella Fitzgerald. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of mimicking Fitzgerald's iconic style, learning to skat sing, and mastering the flute and piano.

Beyond her musical achievements, Maria shares her personal battle with bipolar disorder, illustrating how her darkest moments fueled her creativity and led to her becoming a better singer. Despite numerous setbacks and a journey through manic states that hindered her ability to write, Maria found solace and inspiration in her experiences, transforming them into powerful songs.

Maria's story is also one of adaptation and improvisation, from her unexpected role as a traffic reporter amidst mental health struggles to her success as a VoiceOver artist and the release of her ninth album. With two more albums and a book on the horizon, Maria Jacobs is not only an artist but a survivor, ready to share her story through music and spoken word.

Tune in to hear how Maria Jacobs overcame obstacles to make her mark on the world, inspiring listeners with her dedication to art, education, and the healing power of music.