Hillary Smith Urzetta

Photo by Oscar Lozoya

All photography by Oscar Lozoya &

Robin Riekeman

Hillary Smith Bio

Written by Mel Minter

With a deep soulfulness rooted in the Gospel-driven churches of her youth, a classically trained vocal instrument that’s a natural wonder, and a God-given instinct for swinging a lyric, vocalist Hillary Smith has been electrifying audiences across the United States for more than a quarter century.

Hill first made her mark in the early ’80s with gutsy performances of rockin’ blues and funk. She’s been in demand on the Southwest music scene ever since, fronting a number of popular bands, including the award-winning Strictly Taboo.

In recent years, at the urging of musician friends,Hill has opened a satisfying new chapter in her career, bringing her ineffable phrasing and soulfulness to the jazz songbook. Hill recntly completed on big band recording that includes “funky drummer” Clyde Stubblefield and the legendary Bobby Shew on trumpet. Hill is also featured on pianist, vocalist, composer Kevin Hays’ 2007 recording, The Dreamer and she appeared with Kevin at the 2007 Gathering of the Vibes, along with Joshua Redman, Nicholas Payton, Peter Bernstein, Doug Weiss and Bill Stewart.

Whatever the genre or venue, Hillary Smith always delivers soulful performances that fill listeners’ hearts with her warmth, love, and sheer musical excitement. Hill was recently named "Best Of City" by Albuquerque, the Magazine for Best Musician.

Some of the world-class artists with whom Hill has performed:

Clyde Stubblefield

Bobby Shew

Kevin Hays

Joshua Redman

Nick Payton

Peter Bernstein

Bill Stewart

Doug Lawrence

Doug Weiss

Dan Trudell

Jeff Parker
Dr. Billy Taylor

Lionel Hampton

Noel Pointer
Grady Tate
Roy Ayers

Koko Taylor
Phyllis Hyman

Chris Calloway
Delbert McClinton
Ian Wallace
Mountain
Bobby Keys
Edgar Winter
Jeffrey Gaines
Steppenwolf

505-220-9806 or email hilyrnic@msn.com.

What Albuquerque is Saying About Hillary Smith "Ten years later, I still can't believe I got to work with Strictly Taboo! For me, the three years I spent with them were the most special, exciting time in my career. Hillary is truly gifted and she let me help her share it with the world... It doesn't get better than that!" - Phil Appelbaum, Producer/Engineer, Thunder Digital, www.thunderdigital.com"As a FOH engineer I have mixed sound for hundreds of bands and musicians. Without question Hillary is one of the most powerful and versatile vocalists I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Her natural engrossing stage presence completely compliments her soulful arrangements and incredible control. I can't remember ever a sour note or a dull moment." - Andres Martinez, AP SoundFor more fantastic reviews, See Hillary's Photo Gallery

More About Hillary Smith Urzetta - Interior Designer with an Artistic Flair

Second only to her passion for music is Hillary's artistic flair for interior design. Hillary puts her "Soul" into creating exciting personal spaces for your home. Check out some examples of her inspirational rooms.Hillary has 20 years of experience in "staging" new developments-residential and commercial. Brokers/realtors look to Hillary for staging homes that are on the market..giving potential buyers a better sense of the space.

For help with your creative project, contact Hillary Smith at 505-220-9806 or email hilyrnic@verizon.net.