A life in the arts requires faith — a steadfast commitment to one’s path and vision. For Canadian vocalist, pianist and composer Laila Biali, that faith — not just in her music but in God — is resolute. In November 2024, the independent musician released Wintersongs, co-produced with her husband, drummer Ben Wittman. Just days after its one-year anniversary, she received a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album.

When asked how it feels to be recognized alongside artists like Lady Gaga, Barbra Streisand and Elton John, Biali’s voice ascends in exultation. “The fact that I’ve been nominated alongside these household names, as an independent Canadian artist is already, in my view, in the realm of the miraculous,” she said.

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Despite a prolific career that includes a 2019 Juno Award for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year, hosting the popular CBC 2 radio show Saturday Night Jazz, and working with artists such as Suzanne Vega, Chris Botti, Paula........

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