ZARA McFARLANE

Zara McFarlane stands at the forefront of the UK’s British jazz scene, recognised as one of the most dynamic and genre-defying vocalists of her generation. A multi-award-winning singer, songwriter, composer and performer, she has cultivated a career that seamlessly bridges jazz, reggae, folk, nu-soul and electronic music earning her critical acclaim and international recognition.

Renowned for her eloquence and artistic depth, Zara consistently pushes creative boundaries, exploring new sonic landscapes while honouring the rich traditions that shape her artistry. Her latest album, Sweet Whispers: Celebrating Sarah Vaughan, is an analogue-recorded homage to the jazz legend, recorded at Durham Studios in London and produced by Giacomo Smith. Featuring a stellar ensemble of UK musicians, the project has been met with widespread critical praise:

“The British jazz singer pays homage to Vaughan with earthiness and spontaneity: an animated reinvention of these classics.” –**** The Guardian
“An inspired and lovingly crafted homage.”- **** Jazzwise

“A sumptuous tribute to Sarah Vaughan.” **** The Arts Desk

Zara’s journey began when her self-produced EP caught the attention of world-renowned DJ Gilles Peterson, leading to a string of celebrated albums on his label, Brownswood Recordings. From the introspective lyricism of If You Knew Her to the boundary-pushing rhythms of Songs of an Unknown Tongue, Zara continuously reinvents her sound. Her work draws from deep research into her Jamaican heritage, exploring the intersection of ancestral folk rhythms and modern electronic influences.

Her powerful impact is reflected in her numerous accolades, including multiple Jazz FM Vocalist of the Year awards, Best Jazz Act at the MOBO Awards, and Session of the Year at the Worldwide Awards. Zara has graced stages across the globe, from the prestigious jazz venues of Ronnie Scott’s and The Jazz Café to mainstream festivals such as British Summer Time in Hyde Park, North Sea Jazz Festival and SXSW in Austin, Texas to name a few.

Zara’s ability to transcend genres has made her a sought-after collaborator for some of the biggest names in jazz, house, afrobeat, and contemporary music. She has worked with legends such as Louie Vega, Hugh Masekela, Ivan Lins, Nicola Conte, Antibalas, Ezra Collective, Shabaka Hutchings, while her tracks have been remixed by the likes of Floating Points and Osunlade. Whether lending her voice to cutting-edge producers or classical orchestras such as Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, her versatility and creative vision sets her apart.

An artist with unyielding tenacity and curiosity, Zara extends her talents beyond the jazz stage. She has performed multiple times on the BBC’s Later with Jools Holland. She has made an indelible mark in theatre, featuring as a vocalist in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Antony and Cleopatra (with music by Laura Mvula) and Glyndebourne’s opera ‘Agreed’. In 2021, she was commissioned to compose and perform an original vocal score for ‘DisInteGrated’, an avant-garde dance film by Jacob Jonas The Company, choreographed by Wade Robson and Tony Testa.

Passionate about fostering the next generation of musicians, Zara shares her expertise as a mentor and educator, leading masterclasses at institutions such as GSMD, RWCMD and BIMM. Her knowledge and insight have also led to her role as a judge for the BBC Young Jazz Musician Awards.

Zara McFarlane is an artist who refuses to be confined by genre or expectation. With an unwavering commitment to innovation, she continues to shape the future of contemporary jazz and beyond. Her voice, both literal and artistic, commands the attention of audiences worldwide, ensuring that every project she undertakes is a testament to her skill, intellect, and passion.

Career Highlights

Released 5 albums: Until Tomorrow, If You Knew Her, Arise, Songs Of An Unknown Tongue, Sweet Whispers: Celebrating Sarah Vaughan

Featured artist on Louie Vega’s Grammy Nominated Album Starring XXVIII

Award winner: include MOBO, Urban Music Award, Jazz FM Award (x2), Worldwide Award,  Los Angeles Movie Award (Disintegrated)

Award Nominee: Parliamentary Jazz Award, Best Art Vinyl (SOAUT)

Performance of the National Anthem at the FA Cup Final 2024 (85,000 in attendance, broadcast live worldwide)

Performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra, Tbilisi Symphony Orchestra, Noorde Poole Orkest.