Al Jarreau ’62 to be presented with Lifetime Achievement Award

Acclaimed jazz singer Al Jarreau ’62 continues to influence the world around him. On Oct. 8, he will receive the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wisconsin Foundation for School Music. “Jarreau’s unique vocal style is one of the world’s most precious treasures,” the foundation says. “His innovative musical expressions have made him one of the most exciting and critically acclaimed performers of our time with seven Grammy Awards, scores of international music awards and popular accolades worldwide.”

Jarreau was born and raised in Milwaukee and is internationally acclaimed for his ability to sing many styles, including scat singing and taking on the character of guitar and percussion, all with his versatile and soulful voice. Jarreau has topped the music sales charts with more than 20 albums.

He is the only vocalist in history to have Grammy Awards in the three categories of jazz, pop and R&B, and a nomination for the theme song from the television series “Moonlighting.”

The awards ceremony will be held at the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Advance tickets to attend the ceremony are required.

A letter to the editor recounting Jarreau’s effect on one person’s life was published Sept. 9 in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel newspaper.