Hanka G is a New York-based jazz, soul, world music, and gospel singer-songwriter originally from Slovakia, with a distinctive upbringing that included time spent in the Mongolian desert. Drawing inspiration from Motown legends as well as jazz icons like Betty Carter and Sarah Vaughan, Hanka has been celebrated as “The Best of the Next Generation” by Grammy winner Cassandra Wilson. Jim Hynes of Making A Scene Magazine describes her as “one of the most moving vocalists of these times.” Fusing Slovak folk traditions with jazz, Hanka G has released four albums: Reflections of My Soul (2007), Essence (2014), Twin Flame (2016), and Universal Ancestry (2022), with her highly anticipated upcoming project, Ballads in the Key of Love, set for release in 2025/2026. Universal Ancestry is her first U.S.-recorded album, featuring collaborations with renowned jazz musicians James Hurt, Shedrick Mitchell, and Rodney Kendrick. A tribute to African American jazz pioneers and the diversity of music, the album was placed on the Grammy ballot and spent eight weeks in the JazzWeek Top 100, peaking at No. 73. Two of its tracks remained in daily rotation for nearly a year on WBGO, New York’s premier jazz station. Critics have praised her powerful presence and distinctive style. George Harris of JazzWeekly writes, “Hanka G has a voice that fills a room. This lady will grab you by the throat!” C. Michael Bailey of All About Jazz describes her sound as “sleek and refined, adult contemporary jazz.” Since moving to the U.S. in 2016, Hanka has performed at top New York jazz venues including Smalls Jazz Club, Mezzrow, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, Minton’s Playhouse, The Django, Smoke Jazz & Supper Club and Ornithology Jazz Club. She has toured internationally and served as a guest lead singer at Harlem’s Memorial Baptist Church, sharing the stage with jazz luminaries such as Reggie Workman, Michael Bowie, Anthony Wonsey, Lonnie Plaxico, Marvin Sewell, and Antoine Roney. Before relocating, she opened for Kurt Elling in Europe and toured South Africa with Rodney Kendrick’s trio. Among her accolades, Hanka has received Slovakia’s prestigious Martoník Award - “Lifetime Achievement Award in Jazz” in 2017, making her only the second female jazz artist in its 31-year history to receive the honor. With a commanding voice and the unique ability to bridge musical traditions, Hanka G continues to push the boundaries of contemporary jazz.