Houston, Texas – From the sacred harmonies of Houston’s church choirs to the grand stages of international blues festivals, Diunna Greenleaf has never lost touch with her roots — and this weekend, she’s bringing it all back home.
With her powerhouse voice and magnetic presence, Greenleaf returns to Discovery Green for a free, open-to-the-public concert that’s part of the popular Jazzy Sunday Series.
“There’s no place like home,” Greenleaf shared on Houston Life. “It’s a chance for family and friends to come see me perform when they can’t always travel. You know how high these flights have gotten lately!”
Raised in Houston’s 5th Ward, Greenleaf says coming back is always an emotional experience. “Even though many of my family are gone now, I go back to the Nickel, and the memories just come flooding back.”
Artistic director Susanne Theis calls Greenleaf “an anchor performer” for the series, praising her not only for her music, but for breaking barriers. “She’s such an important figure in our community,” Theis said.
For Greenleaf, the mission is bigger than music. “I got in this to make sure the blues weren’t forgotten. Especially for our children in the Black community — this music can help them process pain. It’s the people’s music. And I’m proud to be called the people’s queen of the blues.”
The free concert takes place Sunday from 5-7 PM at Discovery Green, with a children’s drum workshop kicking off the festivities at 4 PM. Guests can bring lawn chairs, picnics, or enjoy food and crafts at the park.
Diunna is a testament to the Houston spirit: have your accolades, win your awards — but always rep the H.