Born in Lima Ohio, Jeannie moved to Chicago in 1963, after studying Ballet for 16 years. When she found that many Dancers careers end by the age of 25, she started singing where ever she could. Most importantly, she listened to fabulous horn players, including her long time, ultra-talented husband Russ Phillips. Thats how she learned to phrase & bend a note.

While performing at such area night spots as The Playboy Club, Andy's Jazz Club, The Green Mill, Green Dolphin Street, Pops for Champagne, Lush Life, Philander's, & Katerina's with many gifted musicians & big bands (including Judy Roberts, Andy Brown, Bob Dogan, Greg Fishman, Larry Elgart, Bob Stone, Eddie Barrett & many more). Jeannie has matured into the singer whom Larry Kart author & reporter for the Chicago Tribune called "hip, cool-timbered in the manner of Anita O'Day and June Christy".

Over the years, Jeannie has earned the respect of virtually every jazz musician in Chicago. Jeannie is equally at home in intimate clubs & cabarets, with any accompanist, trio or big bands. Jeannie has also performed at jazz festivals across the country & continues to please crowds of all ages & sizes.