Christine Kittrell

Christine Kittrell was a pioneering rhythm-and-blues singer whose powerful voice carried her from Nashville’s celebrated Jefferson Street scene to audiences across the country. Recording for labels including Tennessee and Republic, she delivered performances that moved easily between blues, gospel feeling, and the emerging sound of R&B.

Kittrell toured with leading artists of her era and recorded memorable sides including “Sittin’ Here Drinking” and “Call His Name.” After settling in Columbus, she became an important link between the city’s blues community and an earlier generation of Black popular music. Her Hall of Fame induction honors both an accomplished national career and the history she brought to Central Ohio—a singer whose strength, phrasing, and emotional honesty helped open doors for those who followed.