Sakari is a Chicago-born, trained musician and performer with a rich, soulful voice and an unparalleled versatility. She has done session work for some of the biggest names in the music industry, including PeterCottontale, Ingrid Michelson, and DAVIE, and has performed with an impressive roster of artists such as Jessy Wilson, Tori Kelly, Hillary Scott, Kirk Franklin, Maren Morris, Chris Stapleton, and Mavis Staples.
Sakari’s musical journey began at the age of 4 when she started singing in the church gospel choir in Chicago. By the time she was 12, she had begun writing and recording music in the studio, and by 16, she had released her first solo album. Her talent was recognized early on, and she went on to attend Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she studied Commercial Music with an emphasis in Vocal Performance.
During her six-year stay in Tennessee, Sakari spent her time gigging at various venues, private parties, college events, corporate events, festivals, and bars down on Broadway with her band, Mocha. She also had the opportunity to perform behind various artists on stages across the nation, including at Bonnaroo with DAVIE, Lollapalooza opening for LIZZO with DAVIE, The Greek Theatre opening for Al Green with Jessy Wilson, and the Country Music Awards (CMAs), singing background vocals for Maren Morris, Chris Stapleton, and Mavis Staples. She also sang bgvs for Tori Kelly, Hillary Scott, and Kirk Franklin at The Dove Awards and performed at the Pinknic Festival in NY with YEBBA and Mark Ronson.
Sakari has also lent her smooth, soulful tone to studio background vocals for Ingrid Michaelson and Peter CottonTale, Chance The Rapper’s musical director. She is now based in Los Angeles, California, where she continues to inspire and entertain audiences with her undeniable talent and soulful energy.
In conclusion, Sakari is a talented musician and performer with a voice that resonates deep within the soul. Her versatile style and rich, smooth tone have made her an in-demand session vocalist, and her impressive resume of collaborations and performances speak to her ability to captivate and engage audiences with her musicality and infectious energy. Whether in the studio or on stage, Sakari’s passion for music shines through in every note, making her a rising star to watch in the years to come.
