Ramona Collins, 76, is a powerhouse entertainer from Toledo, Ohio, known for her versatile talents as a singer, songwriter, actress, emcee, educator, and radio personality. A staple of the regional music scene for over 50 years, Ramona has captivated audiences with her sultry voice and masterful delivery of jazz, blues, Motown classics, and more. Whether performing solo or with a group, she has a knack for connecting with diverse crowds, from intimate jazz clubs to large festivals. She frequently performs at senior centers, where members end up joyfully dancing to her songs.
Born in Toledo and raised in Lansing, Michigan, Ramona grew up under the influence of her mother, the late Alice Carter, a jazz pianist and singer who fostered her daughter's musical passion. This early encouragement helped Ramona overcome her shyness and transform into the dynamic performer she is today. Her rich repertoire, coupled with her natural charisma, has made her one of the most in-demand entertainers in the region.
Beyond her musical talents, Ramona is a dedicated and active community advocate, mentor, and a loving mother of five, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She has received numerous awards throughout her career, and her commitment to education and the arts has earned her admiration both on and off the stage.
With performances spanning Toledo, Detroit, Ann Arbor, and beyond, Ramona remains a beloved figure in the region, celebrated not only for her incredible voice but also for her unwavering dedication to the art of entertainment. Fans and audiences alike eagerly anticipate every opportunity to experience this remarkable talent live.
Why did you retire or why are you still working?
Why did you retire?
Why are you still working?
I am still working because I hold a position of prominence as a singing entertainer after 56 years. As long as there is a demand for me to perform, I will fill it. I recently received an honorary doctorate in music, I am currently an artist in residence and visiting instructor at the Toledo School For The Arts, founder of Songs For Our Sister, a founding member of Women Of Toledo, a board member of the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo, my likeness is on the wall in the Glass City Convention Center’s Jazz Alley and I am a founding member of Second Sunday Jazz Jam. All these things and more keep me busy but being a singer involved in my community as well as on stage has given me longevity. I will continue singing until my time is up.
Life expectancy 2023
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