Joanna Nix Jewett
Joanna Nix Jewett, Syracuse Songbird Flying Higher Than Ever
Joanna Nix Jewett is a busy woman in Syracuse music. She’s in possession of a powerful soprano voice and knows how to wield it in any occasion. 
As a reference to my meaning, she sings the “Great Gig In the Sky” vocal part exquisitely, with Radio Floyd. Ditto the Merry Clayton howl that sends chills down the spine of “Gimme Shelter,” by the Rolling Stones (with Dangerous Type). Truly magical – majestic performances indeed. Check. She’s got that.
Then there’s the Blues. She is also the featured vocalist in Blue Avenue which also features Syracuse icon Mark Doyle on guitar. Out of the gate this Syracuse based supergroup is accessible at some of the top events around the city.
Most notably in mind, though, is her involvement with the CNY Songbirds, another supergroup with a hallmark for superb vocal harmony and arrangements. This group knocks me out everytime I see them.
And not only that, part of Joanna’s success includes her endeavors to contribute her time and help to the civic strife of her city.
CS: Hello Joanna! Thank you, so much, for taking a little time to chat with us here at Sounds of Syracuse, today. Tell us a little bit about your music path and some of the experiences you’ve had.
JJ: Thank you for having me, Chuck. Well, I’ve been singing for a long time and have been lucky enough to perform with some of my very favorite people. From the early days with the party/wedding band The Critics, to other groups such as Funkadelphia and The Mix Tapes, I’ve been blessed to spend time with people who are great musicians, people, and friends.
CS: You stay busy with a number of quality acts, working with some amazing musicians. Tell us a bit about that.
JJ: I like to be busy and am happiest when I have a variety of projects. I am extremely blessed to be part of some amazing projects and bands with some of my very favorite people.
I think it’s important as we age to try new things and step out of our comfort zone. That’s how we grow, right?
CS: Who are you working with these days?
JJ: Currently, I get to share the stage with the CNY Songbirds, Dangerous Type, Radio Floyd, and Blue Avenue.
CS: What are some of the more memorable events from your music career?
JJ: I loved producing “Ladies Night at the Palace” a few years back. The show featured some of CNY’s most dynamic female artists. In 2025, I gathered a handful of female artist friends for “Women on a Mission” which benefited Music for the Mission.
I’ve been fortunate to be invited to be part of some wonderful shows. I love being part of shows at The Ridge, which is one of my favorite venues. Recently, I’ve done a few of my favorite Disco classics with The United Booty Foundation, which is so much fun!
CS: I also know you as a person who makes a few strides for the community through the vehicle of music. Please share with us a bit about those endeavors.
JJ: Giving back and helping people in need is very important to me. In the 5+ years that I served as Executive Director of Music for the Mission, a local not-for-profit that raises money for area food pantries and organizations that help the hungry and homeless, I was able to work with musicians and venues in the area to create fundraising events and efforts that made a positive impact on people who are vulnerable and in need of help. I retired as Executive Director at the end of 2025, and happily remain on the Board of Directors.
CS: Awesome work, there! Thank you for what you do to help our city, there. So…what’s your best advice to someone becoming involved with music?
JJ: Be fearless and stay open to new experiences. Work hard. Find like minded people. Always trust your gut feeling. Lean into gratitude.
CS: Lean into gratitude.
Beautiful.
I imagine you have an ambitious 2026 season forming. What are some of the things we have to look forward to with your music involvements?
JJ: 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year! The CNY Songbirds have a cool new show “Going to California” celebrating artists from the West Coast coming up at the Center for the Arts in Homer on May 9. We have a show in the fall that we’re pretty excited about – more on that coming soon! Dangerous Type has a pretty busy summer ahead. Blue Avenue has a few shows coming up that should be fun. My partner and I have a new project in the works, too.
CS: How do we keep track of you and your music?
JJ: You can find CNY Songbirds, Dangerous Type, Radio Floyd, and Blue Avenue featuring Mark Doyle and yours truly on Facebook and Instagram. I share show info on my personal page, too.
CS: Awesome! Thank you so much, Joanna, for taking time with us.
JJ: Thanks for all you do for the CNY music community, Chuck!
