Bio
Renowned for his exceptional talent and groundbreaking achievements, G. Thomas Allen emerged onto the Chicago music scene in 2015, captivating audiences with his extraordinary vocal range and innovative approach. His soulful melodies, deeply rooted in sacred harmony, propelled him to become the first male artist in history to secure victory at the prestigious Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Jazz Competition, as recognized by Downbeat Magazine.
Thomas' artistic endeavors transcend multiple genres, evidenced by his notable roles as a Principal Artist of the Los Angeles Opera and lead vocalist on GRAMMY-nominated projects alongside Ricky Dillard and New G (Motown Gospel). Collaborating with esteemed figures such as the late David Baker, renowned jazz educator and conductor of the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, Thomas has also showcased his virtuosity as a soloist with esteemed ensembles like the Black Pearl Chamber Ensemble, the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic, and the Jason Max Ferdinand Singers (JMFS).
On the national stage, Thomas has graced the airwaves of National Public Radio (NPR) and appeared on Cable Network News (CNN). He has mesmerized audiences within the hallowed halls of prestigious venues including The Kennedy Center, NJPAC, and Carnegie Hall. His enchanting performances have left an indelible mark in top jazz rooms such as SOUTH Jazz Club in Philadelphia, The Jazz Showcase in Chicago, Minton's Playhouse in Harlem (the birthplace of bebop), and Keystone Korner in Baltimore, among others. His presence has also been felt at esteemed performance venues and festivals like City Winery - Chicago, Turpin Lamp Theatre, the 50th New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the TD Jazz Moody Jazz Festival, and the White Plains NY Jazz Festival.
In 2020, Thomas achieved a remarkable milestone with the release of his self-titled debut album, swiftly claiming the top spot on the iTunes jazz charts. Currently, his band is diligently working on their highly anticipated second project, "Reimagined Dream." The lead single from this upcoming endeavor, titled "Cookie Jar," has already garnered significant attention, courtesy of its iconic tagline, "You've been tempted by the cookie jar!" Thomas' distinct vocal stylings, often drawing comparisons to iconic figures like Philip Bailey, coupled with his admiration for Al Jarreau, have positioned him as one of the foremost countertenor voices of the 21st century.
A double-graduate of Morgan State University, as Vocal Studies Alum, and a second BA in Speech Communication, Thomas further expanded his musical education by earning a Master of Music in Music Theatre Vocal Pedagogy from Carthage College. Thomas imparts his vast knowledge and expertise as a Contemporary Voice Specialist, serving on the voice faculty of Columbia College of Chicago and Carthage College in Kenosha, WI.
As the CEO and Founder of Allen Studios, LLC, he has embarked on entrepreneurial ventures, establishing his own artistic domain.
Reviews
“G. Thomas Allen’s falsetto vocals make him unusual for a male singer — and they helped him become the first man ever to win the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition on Nov. 14.” - Michael Barris
“Thomas Allen from Chicago was announced as the winner of the 10th Annual Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition on Sunday, Nov. 14 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, N.J.”
“One of the judges, guitarist/vocalist John Pizzarelli, described the competition as "a great mix of vocalists, and that made it hard to come up with a winner. I think G. really commanded it, and his confidence was as clear as his voice.” - This article first appeared in Jersey Jazz Magazine