Dana Williams, ‘Rising Star’: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

Have a look at all the facts on Dana Williams, Rising Star finalist, plus some of her best performances …


1. Her Musical Inspirations Are Classic Jazz

Williams is a huge fan of old-school jazz. Her online bio describes her style as this:

A modern-day Ella Fitzgerald seems a notion too good to be true. But anyone who’s been lucky enough to find themselves within an earshot of Dana Williams at one of her enrapturing LA shows can confirm the comparison is bona fide. Counting the Queen of Jazz as her longtime inspiration, along with Billie Holiday, the 24-year- old singer-songwriter mounts enchanting, effortless vocals on a daydreamy backdrop for an entirely timeless sound.

Williams tries to put as much emotion into her performances as possible.


2. Williams’ Father Played Guitar For A-List Artist

Music runs in Williams’ family as her father was a successful musician, who played guitar for some of the industry’s biggest stars. David Williams played guitar for Michael Jackson, Madonna and Whitney Houston.


3. Williams’ Cover of Rihanna’s “Stay” Is Her Most Searched Performance

In the competition, Dana Williams performed Rihanna’s song “Stay” and it’s her most searched song on YouTube. Have a look at Williams’ performance in the above video.


4. She Has Already Released a Single

Last year, Williams released her debut single “Keep Me Waiting” and she released her 5-track ‘The Lonely One EP’ in March 2014. Check out the official video above.


5. Williams Once Performed With Jay-Z

Dana Williams has actually performed with Jay-Z … when she was in 4th grade. As a child, she was selected to perform “Hard Knock Life” with Jay-Z for a TV special.