Smooth, strong, sultry, crystal clear, and definitive phrasing detail the vocal talents of Jean Holden. Jean embraces every song she sings, giving audiences her a musical experience to remember.  Toledo songstress, Jean Holden is an esteemed voice teacher, and winner of three Lake Erie West People's Choice Awards for best female vocalist, and inducted March of 2000, into the Life Time Achievement category. 

Jean began her singing career in her youth in Shreveport, Louisiana, and was formally trained as an Operatic Mezzo-Soprano. She declined a full scholarship to Julliard School of Music, in exchange for marriage and a family. It was then that she relocated to Toledo.

Realizing there wasn't much market for opera singers, particularly African American opera singers in 1964, Jean changed her style and range to accommodate nightclub singing. Her remarkable talent was sufficient to earn her first nightclub performance at the Park Lane Hotel, where she was hired for a 2 week trial run, and performed there for 2 consecutive years. That began her nightclub entertainment career.  She has shared the stage with many great musicians including Johnny O'Neal, Candy Johnson, and Tennyson Stephens.

Jean's interpretation of the swinging standards and timeless ballads leave her audiences in awe. Her relationship with her audience has placed her in constant demand over the years including club venues in Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland.  In addition, Jean operates her vocal studio, Jean's Studio of Vocal Expression where she works with students of all ages.  

Jean's vocal influences through the years have been Ella Fitzgerald, Nancy Wilson, and Sarah Vaughn. While these singers are considered "jazz vocalists," Jean enjoys most types of music and really loves Patsy Cline and Barbara Streisand. She feels that talent is to be appreciated, regardless of the genre of music.

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