Stella Cole Brings Jazz Revival to Riga: A Rising Star’s Journey
The “Rīgas Ritmi 2026” festival is set to kick off with a performance by American jazz sensation Stella Cole on April 25th at Latvian Radio 1 studio. Cole, 27, will be accompanied by pianist Michael Kanan, bassist Michael Migliori, and drummer Hank Allen Barfield.
From Viral Hits to Prestigious Stages
Stella Cole’s rise to prominence is a testament to the power of the internet and a renewed appreciation for classic jazz. She gained significant attention by posting covers of well-known songs on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok during the pandemic. Her rendition of Harold Arlen’s “Over the Rainbow” (originally performed by Judy Garland) and Stephen Sondheim’s “Everybody Says Don’t” became viral hits, propelling her into the spotlight.
This online success translated into opportunities to perform at renowned venues, including Birdland Jazz Club, Dizzy’s Club at Lincoln Center, Café Carlyle, the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and even Madison Square Garden. Cole’s ability to connect with audiences through both classic standards and fresh interpretations has solidified her position in the contemporary jazz scene.
Blending Tradition with Modernity
Cole’s musical style is characterized by a rich vocal tone and a sensitive approach to interpreting both jazz and other genres. She has released three solo albums – “Stella Cole” (2023), “Snow!” (2024), and “It’s Magic” (2025) – demonstrating her ability to present old-school swing music in a way that resonates with modern audiences.
While often compared to Michael Bublé, Cole cites Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand as her primary influences, reflecting a deep appreciation for Broadway musical traditions. Her background in theater, with a degree in theater studies from Illinois Northwestern University, contributes to her vocal prowess and stage presence.
A Global Tour and Recognition
In 2023, Cole joined Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, embarking on a world tour that included performances in Australia and New Zealand. Her cover versions of Billy Joel’s “Uptown Girl” and Miley Cyrus’s “Flowers” have garnered millions of views online. She was too recognized by “Amazon Music” as a promising new artist.
The Future of Jazz: A Resurgence of Classic Styles
Stella Cole’s success is indicative of a broader trend: a resurgence of interest in classic jazz styles among younger audiences. Artists are finding innovative ways to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, attracting new listeners to the genre.
The leverage of social media platforms has been crucial in this revival, allowing artists to reach a wider audience and share their music directly with fans. The pandemic, while challenging for the music industry, also created opportunities for artists to connect with audiences online and experiment with new forms of content creation.
FAQ
Q: When and where will Stella Cole be performing in Riga?
A: Stella Cole will perform on April 25th at Latvian Radio 1 studio as part of the “Rīgas Ritmi 2026” festival.
Q: What kind of music does Stella Cole perform?
A: Stella Cole performs jazz, often incorporating interpretations of songs from various genres.
Q: Who are Stella Cole’s musical influences?
A: Stella Cole cites Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand as her major influences.
Q: What is “Postmodern Jukebox”?
A: Postmodern Jukebox is a contemporary swing group led by Scott Bradlee, which Stella Cole joined in 2023.
Did you know? Stella Cole’s viral success began with covers posted on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube during the 2020-2021 pandemic.
Explore more about the Rīgas Ritmi festival here.
