11 February 2025 1 minute read
Avery Sunshine, born Denise Nicole White, has long been celebrated in the R&B and soul music scenes for her powerful vocals and unique blend of genres. This year, the Spelman College alumna reached a new milestone, winning her first-ever Grammy Award — an achievement that is a testament to her talent, perseverance and dedication to her craft.
Born in Chester, Pennsylvania on May 22, 1975, Sunshine was deeply influenced by music at an early age. She started playing the piano at eight years old and was also active in her church choir. Her passion led her to Spelman where she initially majored in piano before shifting her focus to philosophy, ultimately graduating in 1988. While at Spelman, she immersed herself in Atlanta's thriving music scene by performing, writing and producing. She released her self-titled album in 2010, earning praise for its unique blend of soul, jazz R&B, and gospel influences. Over the years, she released several other albums, including "The SunRoom" (2014) and "Twenty Sixty Four" (2017), solidifying her place in the contemporary R&B and soul music world.
On Feb. 2, 2025 at the 67th annual Grammy awards, Avery Sunshine achieved a career milestone by winning Best Progressive R&B Album for her project "So Glad to Know You." In a rare moment in Grammy history, she tied for the award with NxWorries' (Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge) album "Why Lawd?" In her heartfelt acceptance speech, she expressed deep gratitude to her supporters, team and family, emphasizing the significance of the win for independent artists.
"This is a win for all the independent soul music artists. We've been working in the dark for a minute, but the light is shining," said Sunshine.
Reflecting on her journey, Sunshine credits her experiences at Spelman for instilling the confidence and resilience she needed to navigate the industry of music. Her win resonated deeply with the Spelman College community and is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians and a testament to the impact of HBCUs in nurturing creative excellence.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Sunshine has been a mentor, philanthropist and advocate for independent artists. She frequently participates in workshops and mentoring programs to assist upcoming musicians striving to make their mark. Her journey from passionate young musician at Spelman to a Grammy-winning artist is a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements. As she continues to create and inspire, Avery Sunshine's impact on the music industry and the Spelman community remains profound.