Topsy Chapman Explained

Topsy Chapman (1947–2022) was a Jazz and Gospel musician from New Orleans, Louisiana.^[1]

Early life

Chapman was born in Kentwood, Louisiana. She sang and played piano at the age of 3 and was considered a musical prodigy. By the age of 6 or 7, she was earning money performing in churches.^[2]

Career

Chapman moved to New Orleans when she was 17 where she led her family's Gospel group, The Chapmans. Playwright and director, Vernel Bagneris, recruited the group to appear in his production on 'One Mo' Time'. The show ran at Toulouse Theatre and later premiered Off-Broadway.

Chapman performed with her daughters, Yolanda Robinson and Jolynda Phillips, under the group name Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony.^[3]

Chapman often performed at New Orleans Jazz Fest and was well known in the New Orleans music scene.^[4]

Death

Chapman died in 2022.

External links

• American Routes Podcast, episodes featuring Topsy Chapman

Notes and References

1. Web site: 2022-12-01 . Topsy Chapman (1947-2022) - OffBeat Magazine . 2023-03-02 . www.offbeat.com . en-US.
2. Web site: Advocate . KATY RECKDAHL Special to The . Topsy Chapman dodges the spotlight from 'One Mo' Time' to Jazz Fest's Economy Hall . 2023-03-02 . The Advocate . 6 May 2017 . en.
3. Web site: Times-Picayune . Ann Maloney, NOLA com The . Topsy Chapman in perfect harmony at New Orleans Jazz Fest . 2023-03-02 . NOLA.com . 30 April 2010 . en.
4. Web site: TOPSY CHAPMAN & SOLID HARMONY (Closed September 10, 2022) New Orleans reviews, cast and info TheaterMania . 2023-03-02 . www.theatermania.com . en-US.