The key elements of rhythm and soul can be heard through rising singer-songwriter Leandra Mcnair. Inspired by diverse vantage points and feels,”Alcohol & Misery” paints a picture of empathy with stirring vocals and refreshing instrumentals.
Kicking off her career at the age of 15, McNair proved to be a soul star by winning Amateur Night at The Apollo. From there, the singer attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston Massachusetts in 2011 and has traveled the world providing background vocals for legendary jazz vocalist Debbie Sledge. Now prepared to step out on her own once again (she released the EP Allura Luna in 2013), McNair is using her experiences to bridge the jazz with today’s modern R&B.
“”Alcohol & Misery” is a song that I wrote [from] my perspective of someone else’s life,” McNair tells VIBE via email. “This song is about a woman I met who goes to the same bar night after night. Some nights at this bar they have live music. One night while she was there she grabbed the mic and started singing the most heart wrenching bluesy melody I have ever heard.”
McNair is currently working on her new EP titled, Lucky. The singer began working on the project last year by only writing songs on her ukulele. Taking the role as an executive producer, she’s also tapped producers Jordan Brown and Ken Linh Doky to assist.
In addition to Lucky, the singer will also be performing at prestigious Standard Jazz Club in Copenhagen for a special tribute to Nat King Cole throughout the month of December. Like her influences Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Jhene Aiko, Joey Badass, Swing out Sister and Lauryn Hill; this star burns bright.
Listen to “Alcohol & Misery” below.
