Jacintha Abisheganaden, born on March 10, 1957 in Singapore, is a renowned bossa nova and jazz vocalist known for her soulful voice and captivating stage presence. Her music career spans decades and she has released several studio albums that have received critical acclaim from both fans and music critics alike.
Growing up in Singapore, Jacintha was exposed to music at a young age, thanks to her father, Alex Abisheganaden, who was an award-winning guitarist of Sri-Lankan descent, and her mother, a Chinese pianist and singer. This diverse cultural background influenced Jacintha's musical style and helped shape her unique sound.
After completing her bachelor's degree in English from the National University of Singapore, Jacintha pursued further studies in creative writing at Harvard University. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for music and decided to pursue a career as a professional singer.
Jacintha gained recognition early on in her career after winning a televised singing competition called Talentime in Singapore. This victory catapulted her into the spotlight and she quickly became a household name in the local music scene. Her smooth vocals and effortless delivery captured the hearts of audiences everywhere, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
In the mid-1980s, Jacintha co-founded TheatreWorks, a performance company dedicated to promoting the arts in Singapore. Her involvement in the theater world allowed her to explore her passion for storytelling and stage performance, further showcasing her versatile talents as a performer.
Throughout her career, Jacintha has collaborated with various musicians and artists, expanding her musical horizons and pushing the boundaries of traditional jazz and bossa nova. Her studio albums, including Lush Life, Tropicana, and Jacintha is Her Name, have received widespread acclaim for their innovative sound and emotive lyrics.
In addition to her music career, Jacintha has also delved into the world of television, serving as a judge on Season Two of Singapore Idol. Her keen eye for talent and deep musical knowledge made her a respected figure in the industry, earning her a reputation as a mentor and role model for aspiring singers.
Despite her success in the spotlight, Jacintha's personal life has been marked by ups and downs, including three failed marriages to American attorney David Scheffer, singer Dick Lee, and journalist Koh Boon Pin. Her resilience and strength in the face of adversity have endeared her to fans around the world, who admire her honesty and vulnerability in her music.
In the late 1990s, Jacintha released her debut jazz recording titled Here's To Ben - A Vocal Tribute To Ben Webster, further solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the jazz and bossa nova genres. Her passion for music and dedication to her craft continue to inspire listeners and fellow musicians alike, cementing her legacy as one of Singapore's most iconic vocalists.
As Jacintha continues to captivate audiences with her enchanting voice and unparalleled talent, her influence in the music industry shows no signs of waning. With each performance, she reminds us of the power of music to transcend barriers and touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
Related links