About

Bay Area vocalist and instrumentalist Jessica King fell in love with jazz after an introduction to Lindy Hop in Philadelphia in 2010. Dance has led her places she never dreamed, but always hoped - including the stage. She now sings lead and plays rhythm washboard, guitar, and banjo as co-founder of local dancer band The Hot Baked Goods, as well as with other bands across the Bay and beyond.  While experienced as a lead vocalist, Jessica also thrives in collaboration, bringing rich harmonies and heartfelt support as a backup singer.

Jessica has found lifelong joy in music. Growing up, she drew inspiration from recordings by Nat “King” Cole, Patsy Cline, Aretha Franklin, James Taylor, Lauryn Hill, and Robert Plant. In recent years, the sounds of Una Mae Carlisle, Peggy Lee, Sam Cooke, Bessie Smith, Anita O'Day, and local legend Barbara Dane pique her interest as well. You will find expressions of jazz, folk, swing, blues, soul, Western swing, and R&B in Jessica’s distinct and joyful style. She’ll have you wishing you brought your dance shoes!

As a local swing dance event organizer with The Bootleggers Ball, Jessica is an advocate for fair wages for working musicians. When she’s not on stage, you can also find her supporting new families as a postpartum doula, on the social dance floor at live music events, or buying more cat trees.