Leah State

Born in Ottawa, this singer studied classical voice under opera singer Yoriko Tanno-Kimmons, before studying in Banff, Alberta, with jazz legends Sheila Jordan and Jay Clayton. Having performed in various jazz clubs throughout Canada, as well as international jazz festivals such as Toronto's JVC Jazz Festival and Montreal's Du Maurier Jazz Festival, Leah State describes her music as "folky, theatrical jazz." In 2001, State released her debut album, Still, on The Breath record label. She has received much praise for a style, which resembles the likes of Billie Holiday and Nina ...