Co-Host Cole Williams
Described by the Huffington Post as having “the heart of Bob Marley, soul of Sam Cooke and grit of Etta James”, Cole Williams is a Jamaican-American multidisciplinary soul singer hailed as "The Empress Of Storytelling”. Inspired by the legendary Gil Scott-Heron, Cole channels her artistry into creating songs of love and humanity that shed light on the everyday experiences of The Unhoused.
As a singer/songwriter, composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, Cole's sound possesses a captivating blend of wisdom and passion, and her original song, “A Better Woman” is receiving acclaim for being a Semi-Finalist in the 2023 Unsigned Only Songwriting Competition. Currently residing in New Orleans, Cole is deeply rooted in her cultural heritage, with talents extending beyond music. As a WWOZ radio host and the Founder/Lead Organizer with The Greater New Orleans Citizens Relief Team, she has become a pivotal vanguard in the powerful movement of direct action.
Her music transcends genre, effortlessly weaving elements of R&B, gospel, the blues, and life experience. Based in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Cole continues to push boundaries and break new ground in the world of entertainment and with the Houseless. With her magnetic performances, rich vocals, and dedication to “art as a force for social change”, she leaves an indelible mark, inspiring and captivating the hearts of listeners through her community action and garnering acclaim from critics.
Over the course of her career, Cole has provided vocals and percussion for Joey Bada$$'s “Curry Chicken”, Chiddy Bang's “Ray Charles”, Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam, The Cole Williams Band, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Somi, Pimps Of Joytime, Aloe Blacc, and Nickodemus to name a few. William's vocal performances have been featured on CoverGirl, and JCPenney: and tv shows as prominent as Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, and The Jools Holland Show, and has appeared on NCIS New Orleans. Publications include Rolling Stone Magazine, and Huffington Post, and was nominated for Best Female Vocalist by Offbeat Magazine in 2017. Williams’ live performance highlights include The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Joshua Tree Music Festival, World Cafe Live, BAM Cafe Live, and Blue Note NYC.
Cole hosts “House The Houseless: Music And Action”, a monthly social justice podcast presented by her label, Ropeadope Records. In 2015, Williams produced the WWOZ documentary, “Close Up: Tank And The Bangas. With her unwavering commitment to social justice, she amplifies the voices of the houseless and brings awareness to their struggles through her music.