- Sharon Heyward is an accomplished music industry veteran who served as SVP/GM of Virgin Records and President of Perspective Records, and is known for her powerful work in urban music and artist development. In 1987, after a decade at RCA Records where she worked her way up to project manager, she transferred her skills to Virgin Records. There she rose from marketing director to President and GM, heading the label’s urban department and hiring its first black staff.
- Philadelphia native Patti LaBelle started her career in 1960 as the front woman for the group Patti Labelle & The Bluebelles. An iconic singer, actress and entrepreneur, Patti is known as the “Godmother of Soul,” and the creator of her commercially famous sweet potato pie. In the 1970s the group rebranded as Labelle, embracing a funk/glam rock style, and released the iconic 1974 hit “Lady Marmalade.” They were the first African-American pop group to play at the Metropolitan Opera House. Renowned for her powerful vocals and hits like “New Attitude,” Ms Patti has won multiple Grammy Awards and NAACP Image Awards. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has sold over 50 million records.
- Valerie Simpson is a renowned singer, songwriter and producer… best known as half of the Motown songwriting and performing duo Ashford & Simpson with her late husband, Nickolas Ashford. They penned iconic hits like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “I’m Every Woman.” Valerie co-owns the New York City venue, The Sugar Bar where NABFEME’s Women Who Jam! began its all-female live music performance showcase series.