Akia Uwanda

Raised as an only child in Jacksonville, Florida, “Akia Uwanda” McDaniel wears several hats in the entertainment and business industries. She is a classically trained, sultry jazz and soul vocalist with a down-to-earth personality that reminds you of the girl next door. She is not only a Singer, but also a Recording Artist, Actress, TV/Music Producer, Creative Director, Event Producer, Serial Entrepreneur, Podcaster, Humanitarian, and Philanthropist. As an actress, she has played the role of Shug Avery and Church Lady Narlene in The Color Purple. Akia starred as the lead character in the original musical/dramatic play entitled Majigeen, as Anta, written and produced by Jennifer Chase. Other lead roles include, but not limited to, Velma in Crowns, Lorrell in Dreamgirls, and Adda Perle in The Wiz at the Alhambra Dinner Theatre in Jacksonville, Florida. As a singer, she has opened up for performers such as Earth, Wind and Fire, Avery Sunshine, Jamison Ross and has shared the stage with jazz greats such as Ledisi, Gregory Porter and Kamasi Washington. Her vocal ability and experiences have granted her the opportunity to wow audiences nationally and internationally performing twice at Carnegie Hall, venues in Italy, and beyond. She often performs at music festivals nationally including the Romanza Festivale and JAX Jazz Festival where she has served as an Emcee as well. Akia is the 2023 Jacksonville Image Awards Winner for Music Excellence. For more info, visit www.akiauwanda.com.