Freda Payne Concerts

Experience Freda Payne

Freda Payne is an American singer, best known for her 1973 hit “Band of Gold,” which reached #1 on the *Billboard* Hot 100 and earned her a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female. Born Freda Estelle Warner in Detroit, Michigan in 1945, Payne began her career singing with gospel groups before joining Ray Charles’ backing vocalists, The Raelettes, in the early 1960s.

She transitioned to a solo career, initially recording for Duke Records and later signing with Invictus Records. While achieving moderate success with singles like "Unhappy Woman," "Band of Gold" catapulted her to mainstream recognition. Her musical style blends soul, pop, and R&B influences, characterized by a rich contralto voice and emotive delivery.

Following Invictus' closure, Payne signed with Capitol Records and continued releasing albums throughout the 70s and 80s. Beyond singing, she briefly pursued acting roles. Throughout her career, she’s collaborated with numerous artists and remains a respected figure in soul music history, continuing to perform and tour. She is also the mother of actor/director Omar Payne.