Brenda Russell, born Brenda Gordon on April 8, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York, is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter, producer, and keyboardist known for her diverse musical range that includes R&B, pop, soul, dance, and jazz. She spent her formative years in Canada, moving to Hamilton, Ontario, at age 12, where she began her music career performing in local bands. Russell was part of the Toronto-based girl group the Tiaras and later joined the Toronto production of Hair.

In the early 1970s, she married musician Brian Russell, and the couple performed as Brian & Brenda, releasing two albums. Brenda embarked on a solo career after their divorce, achieving commercial success with her 1979 self-titled debut album, which included the hit "So Good So Right." She continued to gain recognition throughout the 1980s and 1990s, notably with her song "Piano in the Dark" and her contributions to Earth, Wind & Fire's albums.

Russell's songwriting prowess is evident in hits like "Get Here," famously covered by Oleta Adams, and "If Only for One Night," covered by Luther Vandross. She has written for numerous artists, including Donna Summer, Roberta Flack, and Aretha Franklin. Brenda Russell's work earned her five Grammy nominations, and she won a Grammy in 2017 for her contributions to the musical The Color Purple. Despite being diagnosed with diabetes in 2004, she continues to inspire with her music, which is characterized by its hopeful and uplifting messages.