ISSA'S STORY
I am a daughter of legacy. My father was Dennis Edwards from The Temptations and my mother is Ruth Pointer of The Pointer Sisters.
Yet, everybody has their own path to travel. The experiences we have in our lives shape who we are as people and accepting each individual for who they are is my biggest motto.
I love music because it is the universal language of love and understanding.
MY STORY IN MY OWN WORDS
I was born Issa Kuren Edwards-Pointer in Novato, California on January 22, 1978 at Novato hospital (yes, I am an Aquarius!). I was the first documented Black baby ever born at that hospital. I was raised surrounded by my family. I grew up living with my grandmother (Rev. Sarah Pointer), most of my cousins, and a couple of aunts and uncles at my grandmother‘s home in California. I was a very fortunate child with a lot of amazing experiences growing up. I fondly remember a childhood trip to Europe with my mother, aunts, and cousins.
Performing has been my passion and is in my DNA. I always loved to sing. In many ways, I was born with a microphone in my hand. I used to perform in the living room in front of the TV for the whole family. I always participated in choir in school as well as theater. I was cast in a couple of plays and greatly enjoy acting. I have been touring and performing as a member of The Pointer Sisters since 2000. I began filling in for my aunt, June Pointer, and performed with my mother, Ruth Pointer, and my aunt, Anita Pointer. When Aunt Anita retired in 2015, my niece, Sadako, joined us.
I feel so blessed to do what I love with my family. It is an honor to carry on the legacy of The Pointer Sisters and to continue to spread joy and create unique experiences for our fans.
ISSA'S PASSION FOR STORYTELLING
Whether she is on tour, performing live at weddings and events, or lending her voice to films and commercials, Issa brings her unique flair and heartfelt passion to every project.
Issa's well-rounded taste shapes her creative vision. She draws inspiration from genres like R&B, soul, folk, pop, funk, and country. Issa finds joy in the emotional depth of artists like Elle Mai and Teddy Swims, and the storytelling of country music.
FROM ISSA:
My mom and aunts were the first Black women to win a Grammy Award in a country music category - unfortunately, in 2024 they are still the only Black women to win such a Grammy Award. They were awarded the Grammy for their 1974 song, "Fairytale" which was written by my aunts Anita Pointer and Bonnie Pointer. Fairytale was included on The Pointer Sisters' 1974 "That's A Plenty" album and was also covered by Elvis Presley in 1975 for his "Today" album. I am very proud of the legacy they built and how they pushed to sing every genre of American music to make music for all to enjoy. It is likewise important to me to tell stories and craft meaningful experiences through my music, art, and performances.
ISSA'S SPECIAL THINGS
I am passionate about…
I am a huge advocate for the medicinal use of medical marijuana, greater access to mental health services, and autism awareness. My teenage son is autistic and it is my mission to always advocate for him.
I want to be remembered as…
First and foremost, I’d like to be remembered as a good human, a good mom, a kind friend, and a timeless artist.
