Louise Balkwill

Award-winning jazz vocalist Louise Balkwill brings passion, personality and flair to every stage she graces. Based in London, Louise has become one of the UK’s most exciting new voices in jazz, celebrated for her vibrant swing, blues-infused honesty and virtuosic yet unpretentious musicianship.

Her fresh take on the vocal jazz tradition has earned her recognition across Europe — including first prize at the Riga Jazz Stage 2022 — and performances on some of the continent’s most iconic stages, from Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club (London) to Nardis Jazz Club (Istanbul).

Louise’s upcoming album, Chatterbox, is a love letter to the classic vocal jazz tradition, updated with fresh energy for new audiences. The album features her original compositions and vocalese lyrics alongside collaborations with some of the UK’s finest jazz musicians.

In addition to her solo work, Louise is the vocalist with Callum Au’s “Trombaphonics” – a swinging trombone-and-vocal-led ensemble combining close-harmony vocals, rich brass textures and one of London’s top rhythm sections. She also performs regularly as the soprano and tenor deputy of The Puppini Sisters, the world’s leading close-harmony group, known for their witty, retro glamour and tight vocal arrangements.

Louise’s artistry has attracted admiration from jazz greats including Leroy Jones, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Liane Carroll, Ian Shaw, Claire Martin and the late Dr. John.

Whether fronting a big band, leading her own quintet, or charming audiences with a single song, Louise’s performances are as heartfelt as they are electrifying — full of warmth, humour and that unmistakable spark that makes her truly one of a kind.

PRESS QUOTES

"A true new talent, shining right here..."
- Ian Shaw

"Her voice and everything else that comes with the package of a master vocalist is pure soul, swing and fire!"
- Leroy Jones

"If the 606 seems miraculously and unusually flooded with light in these pictures, then that must be something to do the combination of Trevor Clifford's artistry as a photographer... and Louise Balkwill's character."
- Sebastian Scotney, London Jazz News, 2018

"Totally bowled over by Louise Balkwill's incredible vocals and engaging stage presence"
- Sarah Chaplin, Jazzwise Magazine, 2015

"Louise's happiness on stage is contagious!"
- Brigitte Beraha

Named by multi-award-winning singer Liane Carroll as a singer to listen out for.