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Sabine McCalla

Biography

Sabine McCalla is a Haitian-American singer-songwriter whose music bridges genres and generations, drawing deeply from gospel, folk, soul, blues, and Americana. Born and raised in New York City to Haitian immigrant parents, McCalla grew up surrounded by a diverse array of musical influences, from Motown and girl groups to Bob Marley, the Beatles, and Haitian folk songs. Her early exposure to classical violin and chamber music further broadened her musical palette, fostering an appreciation for the connections between different musical traditions.

McCalla's career took root in New Orleans, where she was drawn by the city’s rich musical heritage and vibrant culture. She began performing in local backyards and small venues, quickly becoming a fixture in the local scene and collaborating with notable musicians. Her songwriting is characterized by intimate storytelling, honest lyricism, and a blend of genres that reflect both her Haitian heritage and the multicultural fabric of New Orleans. Her debut album, 'Don't Call Me Baby' (2023), showcases this eclecticism, weaving together elements of Brazilian samba, southern soul, British rock, folk, and country. The album’s themes range from joy and heartbreak to gender inequality and cultural celebration, positioning McCalla as a bridge-builder between tradition and innovation.

McCalla’s music has resonated with audiences in New Orleans and beyond, earning her features on Spotify editorial playlists and opportunities to tour nationally. Her work is marked by a therapeutic approach to storytelling, often reflecting on periods of isolation and personal growth, such as during the pandemic. As the younger sister of acclaimed musician Leyla McCalla, Sabine continues to expand her creative horizons, collaborating with a range of artists and contributing to the evolving legacy of American roots music.

Fun Facts

  • Sabine McCalla is the younger sister of Leyla McCalla, a Grammy-winning musician known for her work with the Carolina Chocolate Drops.
  • Her debut album, 'Don't Call Me Baby,' was fully crowdfunded and released in 2023.
  • McCalla’s songwriting often begins with poetry or journal entries, which she later sets to music.
  • She draws inspiration from the musical and cultural diversity of New Orleans, as well as her Haitian heritage.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

  • Leyla McCalla - Older sister and established folk musician; familial and artistic influence (Leyla’s solo albums and work with Carolina Chocolate Drops) [Ongoing]
  • Irma Thomas, King Oliver, Howlin’ Wolf, Lonnie Johnson - Inspirations from New Orleans’ musical history and sound (Influence on Sabine’s songwriting and style) [Ongoing]

Key Collaborators

  • Sam Doores - Co-wrote and arranged music for debut album (Don't Call Me Baby (notably 'Two of Hearts')) [2020s]
  • Gina Leslie - Featured musician on debut album (Don't Call Me Baby) [2023]
  • The Lostines - Collaborators on debut album (Don't Call Me Baby) [2023]
  • Eli 'Paperboy' Reed - Collaborative performances and recordings (Live shows and sessions) [2020s]

Connection Network

Current Artist
Collaborators
Influenced
Mentors
Has Page
No Page

Discography

Albums

Title Release Date Type
Don't Call Me Baby 2025-11-07 Album
Down Every Road 2022-04-29 Album
A Day for the Hunter, A Day for the Prey 2016-05-27 Album

Top Tracks

  1. Save My Soul (Folk)
  2. Roads We Wander (Folk)
  3. I Went to the Levee (Folk)
  4. Today I Started Loving You Again (Down Every Road)
  5. Stole My Heart (Folk)
  6. Baby, Please Don't Go - Western AF Version (Baby, Please Don't Go (Western AF Version))
  7. Anyhow (Folk)
  8. Could You Be Love (Could You Be Love)
  9. Freedom Is A Constant Struggle (Freedom Is A Constant Struggle)
  10. Teach Me to Forget (Down Every Road)

References

  1. rockandrollglobe.com
  2. btdfoundation.org
  3. astudiointhewoods.org
  4. muzilogwoman.com
  5. melodicmag.com

Heard on WWOZ

Sabine McCalla has been played 10 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.

DateTimeTitleShowSpotify
Dec 8, 202507:25Sunshine Kissesfrom Don't Call Me BabyThe Morning Setw/ Stuart Hall
Dec 4, 202520:29two of heartsR&Bw/ Your Cousin Dimitri
Nov 20, 202523:19Sunshine Kissesfrom Don't Call Me BabyKitchen Sinkw/ Jennifer Brady
Nov 14, 202515:45Baby Please Dont Gofrom Dont Call Me BabyThe Blues Breakdown
Nov 14, 202515:32Lovely Lonelyfrom Dont CAll Me BabyThe Blues Breakdown
Nov 14, 202515:30Sunshine Kissesfrom Don't Call Me BabyThe Blues Breakdown
Nov 11, 202507:26Sunshine Kissesfrom Don't Call Me BabyThe Morning Setw/ Fox Duhon or Mark LaMaire
Sep 30, 202508:41Sunshine Kissesfrom Don't Call Me BabyThe Morning Setw/ Fox Duhon or Mark LaMaire
Sep 29, 202512:56Sunshine Kissesfrom Don't Call Me BabyNew Orleans Music Showw/ Murf Reeves
Sep 21, 202522:57Sunshine Kissesfrom Don't Call Me BabyWhat's Neww/ Duane Williams