Reprinted with permission by Suzi Nash. Originally appears in Philadelphia Gay News 8/19/2026.
“If you’re a music aficionado, check out the incredible lineup of musicians throughout the weekend [SisterSpace Weekend 2026] on several different stages, from day to night. One of those performers is this week’s Portrait, KJ Denhert. Denhert’s career spans 40 years and 11 albums, with her latest titled “The Evening News.” Denhert is a versatile and accomplished guitarist who moves seamlessly between musical styles, bringing both deep respect and confidence to each. Her acoustic guitar work reflects a rich mix of urban musical influences, as well as jazz and folk traditions.
Her adventures in music have led her to the pyramids in Egypt and the Indian Ocean, where she entertained more than 4,000 troops for the USO. Her fans have flown her around the world, including on a recent trip to play for a surprise birthday party in Sweden. Denhert has garnered critical acclaim, earning seven Independent Music Awards, becoming a winning finalist in the Kerrville New Folk Song Contest and the Mountain Stage New Song Contest, and a grand prize finalist in the John Lennon Songwriting Contest. In addition to these accolades, she’s maintained a 20-plus-year residency at Manhattan’s storied 55 Bar and enjoyed notable artist residencies in Italy and on the island of St. Barthélemy. I had a chance to speak to Denhert between gigs in anticipation of hearing her live at SisterSpace in the very near future.”
Tell me a little bit about your beginnings.
KJ: “I was born in Brooklyn, and my parents are from Grenada. They came to Brooklyn in the 1950s…”
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Although she continues to define herself as an “urban folk and jazz” artist, KJ's journey has led her to explore the many genres that influenced her life and music. Her Journey continues to push the boundaries of her own definition. This archive is a chronicle of KJ's journey—her thoughts, her words, her memories and many inspirations.