Althea René & Phillip “Doc” Martin at The Tin Pan

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Althea René was born on Christmas Day in Detroit, Michigan, and began playing the flute at just four years old. She studied classical music at Howard University, where her early discipline and precision took shape. After graduation, she balanced two demanding worlds, serving as a Wayne County Deputy Sheriff by day and performing in Detroit’s jazz clubs by night. Over the years, Althea built a reputation as one of the most dynamic and expressive flutists in contemporary jazz. Known for her fashionable style and energetic stage presence, she has often playfully called the “Chocolate Barbie from the Motor City.” Her nickname was inspired by her funk-driven sound and commanding performances. She credits her father, Dezie McCullers, one of Motown’s original Funk Brothers, for instilling her love of rhythm and soul. Her breakthrough moment came in 2013 with the Trippin n Rhythm release of In the Flow, produced by Grammy-winner Michael Broening. The title track, which she co-wrote, became the first flute-led single to reach number one on both the Billboard and Smooth Jazz charts. It stayed at the top for several weeks, earning her international recognition as a trailblazer in her genre. Then in February 2026, lightning struck twice as her single Synergy soared to number one on the Billboard, Smooth Jazz, and MediaBase charts, cementing her legacy as a genre-defining force. Since then, Althea has released more than ten albums and collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry. She has toured extensively, performing to enthusiastic audiences throughout the Caribbean, Europe, and South Africa. Her influence extends beyond the stage, as she continues to mentor young musicians and support creative communities. In 2021, she received the Presidential Volunteer Service Award for her ongoing outreach and advocacy work. Althea is also a strong voice for women in the music business. In 2018, she published Becoming Chocolate Barbie: A Guide for Professional Women in