Today we’d like to introduce you to Delynia Jannell.
Hi Delynia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in Wyandotte County in Kansas City, Kansas, as a pastor’s kid, so church was always a huge part of my life. I started singing in church when I was just two years old, and honestly, there’s never been a time when music wasn’t part of my world. Church is where I found my voice, my confidence, and my love for performing.
A turning point in my journey happened in a very unexpected way. I was working with Crystal, Krizz Kaliko’s wife, before I even knew about her connection to the music industry. She was putting together a program for her church and had heard from coworkers that I could sing, so she invited me to perform. When I showed up, I realized Tech N9ne and Krizz Kaliko were there supporting her. After I sang, everything changed.
Crystal saw something in me and decided to help guide my career. She started managing me, helped place me in a band, and connected me to auditions that really expanded my perspective as an artist. Eventually, with her encouragement, I branched out and formed my own band (which she also helped me put together), which allowed me to develop my own sound while staying true to my roots.
That journey—from church pews to professional stages—has shaped not just who I am as an artist, but why I make music.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, my journey hasn’t been a smooth road at all. I don’t think anyone in the music industry can honestly say that it is. I prefer to call those challenges learning lessons. From finding committed musicians, to landing the right gigs, to discovering who you really are as an artist—every part of that process comes with its own obstacles.
One of the most difficult seasons of my life was losing the two biggest musical influences I’ve ever had: my father, James C. Bailey Jr., and my brother, Donivan Bailey. My father introduced me to singing at a very young age. We practiced at home—our house always had a piano and an organ—because I would often sing before he preached during his sermons. Those moments were my first real lessons in music, discipline, and purpose.
My brother was my musical hero. We were ten years apart, so I always looked up to him, and he taught me from my childhood well into my adulthood. He was an incredible jazz drummer and a respected artist in the Kansas City music scene. Losing both of them was devastating, but their influence continues to shape how I sing, perform, and approach music today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
During the week, I work in pharmaceutical sales, but in the evenings and on weekends, I step fully into my life as a professional singer and entertainer. I’ve been performing professionally for about 13 years, and music has remained a constant alongside my career.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to sing background vocals for a wide range of artists, including Krizz Kaliko, Tech N9ne, Kelley Hunt, E-40, and the Phil Collins Experience Tribute Band, among others. Those experiences have really shaped my versatility and professionalism as a vocalist.
With my own band, the Delynia Jannell Ensemble, I currently hold residencies at Sullivan’s Steakhouse and at both Johnnie’s Jazz Bar locations—the Power & Light District and Liberty, Missouri. In addition, I serve as the lead singer for Boogie Nights KC, a high-energy disco band, and Simply Tina, a Tina Turner tribute band. We regularly perform at Knuckleheads and other popular venues throughout the Kansas City area.
Balancing both worlds has been challenging, but it’s also allowed me to stay grounded while continuing to grow as an artist.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Beyond being a professional singer and artist, I truly value my role as a wife to my amazing husband, David Brown. We’ve been married for 22 years, and that foundation has been a huge source of strength and balance in my life. I’m also incredibly proud to be a mom to my two amazing children, Dalyn and Daeleon Brown, who inspire me every day.
Alongside performing, I’ve been working on my own original music and am looking forward to releasing it in 2026. It’s a project that’s very personal and reflective of my journey—both as an artist and as a woman—and I’m excited to finally share that side of myself with the world.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delyniajannell/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delynia.brown
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@delyniajannell4228
