Jill Scott: New 'Album Is Closer Than It's Ever Been' — billboard.com

Jill Scott was among the stellar lineup of performers at the Feb. 10 taping of the CBS/Grammy tribute concert to Stevie Wonder (airing Feb. 16). She, along with India.Arie and Janelle Monae, threw down a rousing cover of the Wonder classic "As." But that wasn't the only Grammy Week highlight for Scott, who is currently finishing her fifth studio album. The singer/songwriter was honored earlier during Grammy Week at Essence magazine's annual salute to Black Women in Music. Staged at the Avalon in Hollywood, the event ranked as one of the best celebrations in its six-year history. Performers honoring Scott included Chaka Khan, Brandy, Lianne La Havas and MC Lyte. Among the music celebs in the house were Grammy Award winner Lalah Hathaway, Ciara, Grammy nominees Ledisi and Antonique Smith, Empire up-and-comer V. Bozeman, Goapele, Marsha Ambrosius, Zendaya and Jordin Sparks.

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