BIOGRAPHYKalya Ramu, a Canadian jazz vocalist, composer, educator, and visual artist, has carved out a distinctive presence within Toronto's vibrant jazz community. From the age of 12, Kalya found herself immersed in the world of jazz, frequenting jam sessions and touring with community big bands. Her musical journey led her to pursue higher education, culminating in her graduation from the Bachelor of Music Degree Program at Humber College. A storyteller at heart, Kalya has a remarkable ability to reinvent classic jazz tunes while infusing her original compositions with fresh, evocative narratives.
In 2019, Ramu released her debut full-length album, "Living in a Dream", generously supported by FACTOR. Shortly after this release, the title track was featured on the soundtrack of CBC show "Frankie Drake Mysteries." Ramu’s second album, "Duo" (2021), is a close collaboration with pianist and composer Ewen Farncombe. The five-track album of original material highlights their artistic synergy. More recently Ramu has released two singles featuring Brazilian guitarist André Valério. The first, "Algo Contigo," features the composition of Argentinian songwriter Chico Novarro, and the second “Hold Me Close” is an original composition by Ramu and Valério and features the playing of flutist Rob Christian. Beyond music, Ramu is a talented visual artist, specializing in watercolor portraiture. Her illustrations grace the pages of Cannopy Magazine (@cannopyarts), with her work featured on multiple print issues and covers. She also undertakes portrait commissions and album artwork projects for clients across Canada and the US.
MUSIC VIDEO for Kalya Ramu's original song Laugh It Off, co-written by and featuring Ewen Farncombe. Music Video produced and directed by Maytham Jbara of Trash Production. WATCH NOW! VR GAME SONG! In collaboration with vocalist Nathan Ford and producer Michael Wyckoff, an unexpected rendition of Bing Crosby classic "Don't Fence Me In" is featured in the closing scene/credits for new Stress Level Zero VR game, Bonelab! OUT NOW! PRESS for "Duo" "Ably accompanied by talented pianist Ewen Farncombe, Ramu breezes through five well crafted jazz flavored originals that show off her lyrical brilliance, pitch control and command of dynamics." "The fact that the breathtaking repertoire on this short EP is all original work is another welcome surprise." "Ramu is at her sandy-voiced best...with rich stride work by Farncombe...personal and cozy." |
NEWSHOLD ME CLOSE
Kalya Ramu's second single, HOLD ME CLOSE came out on February 9, 2024. The song was written with and features André Valério on guitar, with special guest Rob Christian on flute. Artwork by Kalya Ramu. 
ALGO CONTIGO Kalya Ramu's first single, ALGO CONTIGO (written by Chico Novarro, featuring André Valério), is OUT NOW on all streaming platforms! Click to listen below! 
PRESS for "Living in a Dream" “She is one of the most captivating vocalists to come along in several seasons.” “She swings like a kids jungle gym. " “Ramu's voice has a warmth, depth and maturity to it that belies her years. ” “The veiled voice of Billie Holiday, the sensuality of Rita Hayworth, and the playfulness of Doris Day. ” “Ramu's pitch, phrasing, intonation, and lyrical interpretation result in this excellent vocal jazz recording. It is no dream that she is so good. ” |
