Tony Hightower

Tony Hightower is redefining jazz. Bridging the gap between R&B and traditional jazz with a style that resonates across generations. An Atlanta native with deep familial roots in music, Tony honors jazz's timeless essence while infusing it with fresh, contemporary energy. His journey includes three notable projects: his debut album "The New Standard", his acclaimed sophomore album "LEGACY," and the holiday EP "This Time of Year".

With LEGACY, Tony explores a range of jazz vocal styles, featuring original compositions like the bossa nova-inspired "Rendezvous," the soulful "All to the Good," and his take on heartfelt standards such as "Gee, Baby, Ain't I Good to You."

Tony's passion for music was sparked early by his mother, the late Theresa Hightower, a celebrated jazz and funk vocalist, and his father, percussionist Ralph Baker. Starting as a drummer at age 14, he developed his craft under the influence of legends like Freddy Cole, drawing inspiration from icons such as Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra.

Tony's versatility shines in his collaborations, having worked with Lionel Richie, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, and iconic Atlanta acts like OutKast and Goodie Mob. He has graced stages at renowned venues, including the Velvet Note, Cliff Bells, and Good Times Jazz Room, and co-headlined the 2023 Atlanta Jazz Festival alongside Samara Joy and Wynton Marsalis. His poignant rendition of "Nature Boy" during WCLK's 50th Anniversary celebration at Atlanta Symphony Hall further cemented his place in the jazz world.

As an actor, Tony has appeared in Tyler Perry's Madea on the Run, The Haves and the Have Nots, If Loving You Is Wrong, Madea Gets a Job, Hello, and BET's hit series Zatima.

In 2024, Tony expanded his global footprint with sold-out performances at prestigious international venues, including Ronnie Scott's in London, Oliver's Jazz Club, Club Dauphine in Amsterdam, and Berlin's A-Trane Jazz Club. He also closed the holiday season by collaborating with Next Level for Christmas at Rockefeller Center, a soulful celebration blending gospel and Americana that showcased his dynamic artistry.

Tony Hightower continues to captivate audiences with his seamless blend of tradition and innovation, sharing jazz with a new generation while staying rooted in his faith and passion. As he says, "Everything I have comes from God first," and his mission to elevate jazz remains unwavering.