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