RENEÉ WILSON
For New Orleans native Reneé Wilson, living life to the fullest just comes naturally. This multi-talented singer, actress, filmmaker and motivational speaker is defining her personal and artistic journey with her own unique and intimate style.
Since leaving her hometown, Wilson’s journey over the last 10 years has included work on the runways in New York, Miami and Los Angeles, teaching acting, singing and songwriting internationally, starring in the Academy Award winning film Ray with Jamie Foxx, co-producing and directing her first film and releasing her debut CD .
As a passionate advocate for social change and justice, Wilson is also actively involved in working with life changing organizations such as the Pride Foundation (largest employer of people with disabilities), YES! and HOPE (Helping Other People Everywhere).
Her ability to inspire and empower children and young women around the world has clearly placed her in the ranks of some of today’s shining stars. Stepping into her own journey of discovery, Wilson’s infectious smile and “keep it moving” attitude has garnered attention from today’s most respected performers, actors, social advocates and business organizations. Her life mission is to encourage and empower people to live their dreams as expressed through her work and messages as a motivational speaker. Wilson has been a guest host and panelist as well as a facilitator at various events and workshops across the country including the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, CA.
A gifted storyteller of life through music and theater, Wilson’s most personal story is currently being told through her documentary Crepe Covered Sidewalks which was directed by Wilson and co-produced with award winning filmmaker Tamika Miller. This riveting documentary is about Wilson’s return home to the devastation and desolation of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina as well as a story of love, loss and rebirth five years after the storm. The documentary was selected in March of 2010 as the centerpiece film for the 7th Annual Patois New Orleans International Human Rights Film Festival.
In addition, Wilson’s juicy blend of folk, soul, jazz, rock and pop has introduced a new genre of music in the industry that has invited her to perform around the world at venues and events such as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the Sawa Sawa Festival in Nairobi, Kenya and onstage with artists such as the Sound of Blackness. Her debut album released in March 2010, Voodoo Queen, is an eclectic collection of songs conjured up from her creative kitchen. Her single “Maybe” is featured on the 2010 HOPE album along with Sublime, Fishbone and Blues Traveler and she recently recorded with famed folk star Bonnie Prince Billy on his upcoming release.
Currently, Wilson is touring with her documentary and performing music around the country as well as working on a tribute piece about one of her great muses, Ms. Lena Horne. Wilson lives in San Francisco with her husband Aaron and cat Maggie.
Contact the lecture bureau for booking information, lecture schedules, speaking engagement questions and to check the availability of Reneé Wilson appearing at your next special event.