Chaney Sims

Chaney Sims, born in Queens, NYC, is a songstress and storyteller.  Raised on old-school R&B, Soul, Blues, and work songs, her voice is steeped in these musical traditions and she is dedicated to sharing their significance; revamping classics to reflect her experiences as a queer woman of color; and telling her story.  She is a descendant of slaves, sharecroppers, and music makers from Georgia, Florida, and Ohio.

Chaney is honored to perform her music at venues around the world and to have shared stages with amazing artists who incite and inspire including Staceyann Chin, Phylicia Rashad, Keb' Mo', Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Selah Sue, recording legend Bernard "Pretty" Purdie, Guy Davis, Toshi Reagon and the late Odetta. 

In 2013, Chaney was nominated for a GRAMMY award, as well as two Blues Music Awards, with the Heritage Blues Orchestra (H.B.O.) for their debut album And Still I Rise, an international collaboration that honors African-American roots music. She has also received an Award of Distinction from the Fresh Fruit Festival for her performance in tribute to LGBTQ Jazz greats at Joe’s Pub.  

(Chaney Sims at 19th annual Poconos Blues Fest 2010)