Black History Month: LADY ALMA

Lady Alma

“Lady Alma” Horton is one of Philadelphia’s unsung heroes. She was born in San Diego, CA and found her calling to sing at the young age of 3 holding her own with an all adult church choir. By age 10, she had already toured the country and began receiving a rich education from Philadelphia institutions such as Girard Academic Music Program, Settlement Music School and Freedom Theater with studies in theater and dance. Having received a formal music training, Alma learned the rules but also learned that she wanted to break them. Regarding her education, she said, “Where others walk straight, I’d rather zig-zag.” 

This perspective helped solidify her as a global name as she is adored by electronic music lovers the world over for her work with Zapp Mama, DJ Spinna, Mark De Clive Lowe, DJ Mitsu, and Yukihiro Fukitomi among countless others.  She was first introduced to the world via the iconic Sylk 130 collaborative project with King Britt. When 1998’s “When The Funk Hits The Fan” was released, it snowballed into a promising career as a solo artist for Lady Alma. Appearing on 4Hero’s 2001 full length album “Creating Patterns” produced a soulful anthem that gave Alma and Dego even more worldwide acclaim. "Hold It Down" is considered by many to be one of the highlight’s of 4Hero’s rich catalogue. Following up the impact of Hold It Down, Alma dropped several 12’ releases including “Dreams” on King Street Records (2003), “Chances” on Wonderwax (2003), “Running For Nothing” on Raw Fusion (2009) and “It’s House Music” on Yoruba (2014). 

Lady Alma’s lengthy catalogue is only second to her live stage show. Known throughout Philadelphia as a true powerhouse in the studio and in concert, she was able to build an organic following with regular performances at the legendary Black Lily jam sessions produced by The Roots and management team. From then to now, she’s only gotten better with time and her ability to engage the audience, mix genres, and turn any club into church for the duration of her set is certainly why Alma is regarded as a legendary artist and will be for years to come.