There are at least two artists by this name, both from the United States: 1. Vanessa L. Williams - American singer and actress. 2. Vanessa R. Williams - American gospel music singer. 1. Vanessa Lynn Williams (born 18 March 1963 - Tarrytown, New York, U.S.) is an American R&B/pop/theatrical singer and actress. In 1983, Williams made history when she became the first woman of known African descent to be crowned Miss America. Her regime as Miss America Read more on Last.fm