Dennis Rowland, a jazz singer and songwriter, was born in Detroit, MI. Rowland grew up in a family of jazz fans and developed an early appreciation for Jazz music. Rowland was five years old when he heard Joe Williams’ voice, and this has influenced his singing style ever since. Rowland has a rich, deep voice. He was active in Detroit’s jazz and acting scene during the 1970s. Count Basie hired Rowland in 1977 to be his vocalist, the same position his idols Joe Williams or Jimmy Rushing occupied for many years. It was Rowland’s dream come true. He would tour with Basie for seven years. Rowland was privileged to have the opportunity to perform on the same stage as such legends as Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald during his time with Basie. Robert Sucato recently filmed Rowland as Jimmy Baker in Real Gone Cat. He currently lives and performs in Phoenix, Arizona. Text contributed by users is available under Creative Commons By–SA License. It may also be available under GNU FDL.
