Leyla McCalla is a multi-talented musician whose work encompasses a diverse range of cultural heritages and social issues, intertwining Haitian Creole roots, American folk music, and classical influences, all informed by her socio-political consciousness. Born in New York City to Haitian immigrant parents, McCalla's cultural identity has been a wellspring for her creativity and advocacy. She spent her early years immersed in a mix of Haitian music and the vibrant cultural landscape of Brooklyn, which later provided depth to her artistic pursuits. A proficient cellist, banjo player, and singer, McCalla's career gained significant momentum when she moved to New Orleans, a city whose rich musical traditions resonate through her work.

McCalla first came to prominence as a member of the Grammy-winning African American string band, Carolina Chocolate Drops, but she has since established herself as a compelling solo artist. Her discography is testament to a career that defies easy categorization, addressing themes of social justice and diasporic identity. Her album "The Capitalist Blues" (2019) reflects on the societal systems that create inequality, while her earlier work "A Day for the Hunter, A Day for the Prey" (2016) engages with traditional material alongside her own compositions to explore themes of cultural resilience and resistance. "Breaking The Thermometer" showcases her multi-lingual storytelling prowess, blending history and contemporary commentary, and solidifying Leyla McCalla's role as a unique voice in American folk music, deeply informed by her Haitian heritage and her profound sense of social responsibility.

Genres

Alternative Americana

Black Americana

New Orleans Americana

Related Artists

Rhiannon Giddens

Allison Russell

Angelique Kidjo

Meshell Ndegeocello

Valerie June

Kaia Kater

Fatoumata Diawara

Lisa Hannigan

Sarah Jarosz

Taj Mahal

Tinariwen

Esperanza Spalding

Latest Release

Sun Without the Heat

Leyla McCalla

Album - 10 Tracks - Released April 12, 2024