Grace Jones: podcast appearances and interviews

Grace Beverly Jones, born on May 19, 1948, is a Jamaican singer, songwriter, model, and actress. She began her career as a model in New York, signing with Wilhelmina Models. After moving to Paris, she worked for fashion houses such as Yves Saint Laurent and Kenzo, appearing on the covers of Elle and Vogue Hommes. Jones was photographed by renowned photographers Helmut Newton, Guy Bourdin, and Hans Feurer. Her androgynous appearance and bold features gained her recognition as one of the most prominent Black models of the 1970s and contributed to early discussions of gender expression. In 1977, Jones launched her music career, signing with Island Records and becoming a notable figure in New York City's disco scene centered around Studio 54. She was often called the 'Disco Queen' and received acclaim from media outlets such as Jet magazine. Her musical style evolved in the early 1980s to encompass new wave influences, incorporating reggae, funk, post-punk, and pop, with collaborations involving Jean-Paul Goude and Sly & Robbie. Jones achieved chart success with Top 40 hits on the UK Singles Chart including 'Private Life', 'Pull Up to the Bumper', 'Love Is the Drug', and 'Slave to the Rhythm'. Her albums include Warm Leatherette, Nightclubbing, and Slave to the Rhythm. She has continued her work through collaborations with artists like Gorillaz and Janelle Monáe and received a Grammy nomination for her contribution to Beyoncé's album Renaissance. As an actress, Jones appeared in films such as Conan the Destroyer, A View to a Kill, Vamp, and Boomerang, earning Saturn Award nominations for her supporting roles. Throughout her career, she has influenced numerous artists across music and fashion, earning recognition on lists like VH1's 100 Greatest Women of Rock and Roll and Billboard's greatest dance club artists.