Miche Braden

Miche Braden (born November 14, 1953) is a jazz singer and theatrical performer known for her on-stage portrayals of Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Braden has been performing as Bessie Smith in the musical 'The Devil's Music: The Life and Blues of Bessie Smith' since 2000. She has had national performances, including an off-Broadway run in 2001 and 2011, and has also served as the musical director and songwriter for the show. In 2018, Braden received a Helen Hayes award nomination for her outstanding performance. Additionally, she is a protégé of Motown musicians and has founded a women's jazz band called Straight Ahead.