Judith Hill Emerges from the Shadows of Michael Jackson and Prince to Shine on Her Own

Born in Hollywood to a family of musicians, Judith Hill grew up amidst icons like Little Richard and Billy Preston. Despite her glitzy origins, she views her hometown with a mix of affection and reality, aware of its notorious reputation as the Boulevard of Broken Dreams. Hill's ambition is to present Hollywood in a new light, as reflected in her latest album, Baby, I’m Hollywood!

From Backing Vocalist to Center Stage

Initially gaining attention as a backing singer for major talents, Hill's journey towards solo recognition was documented in the 2013 film 20 Feet From Stardom. She was notably chosen for a duet by Michael Jackson himself for his ill-fated This Is It! performance. Although their time together was brief, Hill deeply respects Jackson’s intention to empower and inspire through his music.

Following her experience with Jackson, Hill crossed paths with another legend—Prince. After expressing her desire to work with him in an interview, Prince reached out to her, leading to a fruitful collaboration at Paisley Park that allowed Hill to escape the mainstream pressures of the music industry. Prince's influence would play a pivotal role in shaping her artistic approach.

Reclaiming Her Narrative

Judith Hill's debut album, Back In Time, overseen by Prince, solidified her as more than just a backing vocalist. With his passing, Hill faced another profound loss but continued to forge her own path. She has come to reject the notion that backing vocals are a trap for artists. Today, with an established identity and body of work, Hill is eager to communicate her artistry to the world, unshaken by the legacies of those she once accompanied.

By embracing her individuality and creative voice, Judith Hill has stepped firmly into the limelight, ready to showcase her talent at the Sydney Festival on January 7 at the Wharf 1 Theatre.

culture, music, festival