Taali

Singer, songwriter, producer Taali learned early to create her own reality. “I exist in a space where I assume from experience that this business and overall paradigm wasn’t made for me,” she says. “I come from mentors who heard that, understood that, and didn’t let that impede them.” In this space, she co-founded Rainbow Blonde Records, a label and worldwide collective, with her creative partner, R&B/jazz vocalist José James and engineer and producer Brian Bender. And in this space, she presents her newest EP (out 11/8), “Were Most Of Your Stars Out?” whose title references a line in Salinger’s Seymour: An Introduction. With an intimate cover shot by famed photographer Janette Beckman, Stars captures Taali at the height of her singing and songwriting ability. She opens the EP with a nod to her Jewish heritage, singing out a prayer that translates to, “The whole world is a narrow bridge // and the main thing is to not be afraid.” Honoring the spirit of fearlessness, she presents a work of unparalleled honesty and fragility. For those wondering, here’s the full Salinger line referenced in the EP’s title: “I’m sure you’lll only be asked two questions when you die: Were most of your stars out? Were you busy writing your heart out?” For Taali, hers will always be.