TANYA DIONA - BMHOF CLASS OF 2022

One of Western New York’s most highly-credited singers, Tanya Diona has paid tribute to her legendary Buffalo influences and predecessors, while at the same time carving out her own unique voice and style as a recording artist, songwriter, actress, producer, and award-winning vocalist.

Diona was born in Dunkirk and moved to Buffalo as a child. She studied at the Western New York Academy of Dance and graduated from modeling school. By age 17, she was lead singer in the local reggae band “Positive Force.” 

Upon leaving Western New York, Tanya’s performances for national and international audiences included Showtime at the Apollo, NBC-TV’s The Singing Bee, the 2008 Democratic National Convention, President Barack Obama’s inaugural Neighborhood Ball, the European Save the World Awards, American Idol, the Grammys (with Nile Rodgers and Lady Gaga), and the Oscars (with Lady Gaga). 

Diona has sung with renowned artists such as Alicia Keys, Anita Baker, Barry Manilow, Beyonce, Boyz II Men, Carrie Underwood, Deborah Harry of Blondie, Dennis Edwards of the Temptations, Dionne Warwick, Dr. John, Full Force, Jennifer Lopez, Jermaine Jackson, John Legend, Martha Reeves, Mary J. Blige, Melissa Etheridge, Paul Shaffer, the Pointer Sisters, Roberta Flack, Shakira, Stevie Wonder, Sting, TLC, Taylor Dayne, Tim McGraw, Tom Jones, and the Village People.

She has been a first-place Talent Night winner at the world-famous Apollo Theater in Harlem and was recognized alongside American Idol musical director Ray Chew in a proclamation from the City of Buffalo. 

Tanya paid tribute to Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Inducted Member Rick James and his protégé Teena Marie, with her remake of their duet “Fire and Desire,” which she sang with Paul Anthony of Full Force. She has also performed with James’ Original Stone City Band, as a backing vocalist and singing lead on Teena Marie songs. 

“Dream. Believe. Persist.” ` Tanya Diona