2026 Jazz Aid Fund awardee Luqman Frank is a Bay Area vocalist and songwriter recognized for his soulful, smoke-filled tone and narrative-driven writing. A third-generation Berkeley native, he blends social consciousness with classic soul influences, earning comparisons to legacy rhythm and blues storytellers. His debut album, The Light of the Sun, has surpassed 1.1M streams and received strong critical response, featuring collaborations with top Bay Area musicians. Luqman will give the world premiere of his San Jose Jazz-commissioned “Fighting for Each Other” during his set.

Known for dynamic, high-engagement live shows, Luqman has performed at Yoshi’s, Biscuits & Blues, Freight & Salvage and at Stern Grove Festival. He’s shared the stage with Santana, Pete Escovedo, Narada Michael Walden, Kev Choice and many others while building a growing audience in the Bay Area. His work centers joy, community and emotional authenticity, positioning him as an emerging voice in contemporary soul.