Nellie McKay

While making waves in the East Village anti-folk scene in 2003, the charismatic and versatile singer-songwriter Nellie McKay played an important gig as the opener for the critically acclaimed Trachtenberg Family Sideshow Players. She caught the attention of local journalists whose enthusiastic coverage caused some buzz in the recording industry. She was soon signed to Columbia Records and released one well-received debut album, but parted ways with them over creative disputes. McKay's literate lyrics, genre-hopping music (jazz, folk, rap, pop), and humorous delivery have made her a big hit with intelligent music lovers and critics, and her ability to charm a crowd has carried over into a side career as a stage actress. She self-released her follow-up album, PRETTY LITTLE HEAD, in 2006.

• pop