Paloma Chesky
It’s a rarity for a singer with a distinctive voice to embark on a musical journey that defies expectations. "I don’t want to be put in a box," says Paloma (Dineli) Chesky. "I’ve often been seen as a ‘jazz’ girl, and while I have a deep appreciation for timeless artists, I also love the polished sound of contemporary pop. I’m focused on blending these styles to find a cohesive voice."
Her latest recording, Memory (The Audiophile Society label), showcases her jazz-inflected acoustic side with six personal originals and three meaningful covers. Some of these tracks appear on YouTube as pop-driven alternative versions, marking the beginning of an expansive crossover musical career for the hybrid vocalist/composer, who possesses raw talent and emotional depth.
The pandemic served as a crucial turning point for Paloma to dive deeper into her career. Educated in the New York Philharmonic's program, she studied composition and classical piano until COVID forced a pause. During this time, she discovered her passion for songwriting, prompted by a colleague who encouraged her to incorporate lyrics into her compositions. This exploration led her to learn music production, mastering Logic Pro to produce her tracks from her home studio.
The songs on Memory range from Paloma’s soulful blues take on the classic "Summertime" to her mellow-toned original "When the Moon’s Away," which meditates on the complexities of joy and sorrow.
“’Summertime’ is one of my favorite songs,” she shares. “I wanted to give it my own groove to create a fresh interpretation. For ‘When the Moon’s Away,’ I aimed to capture that bittersweet moment when something good occurs amidst confusion and darkness. My lyrics, ‘Do flowers always bloom when the moon’s away,’ resonate with those who experience the interplay of love and light against the backdrop of inevitable challenges.”
Paloma comes from a rich musical background: her father, David Chesky, is a celebrated classical pianist and composer, while her mother, Patrícia Dinely, is a renowned Brazilian-born singer, actor, and dancer. “They are incredibly supportive, yet my work is distinctly independent. This is my own world. I write alone, direct my videos, and create my own stories. The only guidance from my parents pertains to technical aspects—they ensure I stay grounded as I navigate my own vision.”
Recognized for her exceptional talent, Paloma’s song “Green” was selected as the centerpiece for a performance featuring celebrated ballet dancer Michaela Mabinty DePrince at the Youth America Grand Prix's 25th-anniversary gala at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. The collaboration was a dream come true, and their friendship grew through their shared artistry. Paloma honors Michaela's legacy every time she performs, bringing personal and emotional depth to her work.
Memory is Paloma’s third album, following Thirteen in 2021 and Soul on Soul in 2022, which garnered acclaim and led to performances at renowned venues like Birdland and the City Winery.
This latest project is her most mature crossover effort, combining her independent spirit with exceptional vocal delivery. It features live acoustic instrumentation and a talented supporting quartet, including tenor saxophonist Maxwell Barnes, bassist Chris Ramirez, drummer Danno Peterson, and guitarist Michael Hilgendorf, who also serves as Musical Director.
In addition to originals, the upbeat “Baby Face” showcases her playful style, while “Memory” reflects on farewells with a silky, romantic touch. The midtempo track "Diamonds" explores metaphorical interpretations, inviting listeners to engage with its themes beyond the surface.
In her popular song, “Sober Now,” Paloma delves into a poetic exploration of recovery from addiction, particularly in relationships. Its confessional nature resonates with audiences, bridging the gap between her jazz influences and contemporary pop expressions.