The Pace Report: "Breezin' Through" The Champian Fulton Interview

The next generation of jazz musicians have to develop their own voice and style, while keeping the rich traditions of the music going forward. Vocalist and pianist Champian Fulton lives by that creed. Born on September 12th, 1985, her family helped develop and encourage her to become a musician.Her grandmother began teaching her the piano at age five and added singing in the mix before she turned ten. While most of her friends were listening to Madonna and Nirvana, Champian, at the age of 15, decided to pursue jazz music professionally. Her father, trumpeter Stephan Fulton (who also plays with her), introduced her to legends like Clark Terry and Major Holley. The Norman, Oklahoma native was valedictorian of her high school class in 2003 and decided to study music at SUNY Purchase Music Conservatory here in New York City. While attending school, she developed a following at the famed Birdland, one of the first venues she performed at before she moved to the Big Apple. In the seven years she's been here, she's performed with legends such as Clark Terry, Lou Dondalson, Louis Hayes, Frank Wess, and Jimmy Cobb. Champian's latest Spectra Records release "The Breeze and I" features Neal Miner on bass and Fukushi Tainaka on drums. To order Champian's disc or to find out her upcoming tour dates, visit her on the web at www.champian.net

Added 22 Jun 2026