THE STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE | Tickets available now at MetroTix.com

Renee Smith has earned the nickname “Queen of Saint Louis Soul” on both sides of the Mississippi. Born in St. Louis, MO and raised in East St Louis IL, Renee began singing at age 12 in the Mount Missionary Baptist Church located in East St Louis IL, where she is currently the lead vocalist for the Voices of Zion. 

Drawing on her background in gospel music and her years of concert experience performing Blues, Soul and Jazz along with her many featured performances in local and international clubs, charitable events and festivals, Renee makes every performance exciting and heartfelt.

With her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, she makes a real soul connection. She has performed at the Peabody Opera House, the opening of the St Louis National Blues Museum, sang the National Anthem at the St Louis Dome of America’s Center and has done television appearances and commercials in Singapore. 

Renee has been the featured opening artist for several prominent rhythm and blues legends to include Aretha Franklin, Bobby Rush, Jerry Butler, Little Milton Campbell, Bobby Blue Bland, Johnnie Johnson, Ike Turner and Rufus Thomas. 

Renee’s starring appearances have included, for example: the St Louis Big Muddy Blues and Roots Festival, The St Louis Blues Heritage Festival, the Peabody Opera House, the opening of the St Louis National Blues Museum, Ground Zero in Clarksdale, MS and the King Biscuit Festival in Helena AR. 

She has made appearances and performed on ABC-TV’s Good Morning America, KSDK and KTVI St Louis, and various local radio stations. Her most treasured accolades include coming in 1st place at New York City’s renowned Apollo Theater and being a featured Blues Artist attraction in the St Louis National Blues Museum. Her picture and music are on display there for the world to see and hear. 

Renee recently wrote and released her first single entitled “Sitting Here Waiting.” The “Queen of Saint Louis Soul” is a three-time cancer survivor; she is a passionate activist in the fight against cancer and is an active participant in the Relay for Life and the Susan B. Komen Race For The Cure.