Jazz Vocalist Alicia Waller Releases New Track “Tempo 120” | WATCH NEW VIDEO! Announces New Shows for 2026
Alicia Waller Defies Boundaries on Feminine Expression
with “Tempo 120”
An Epic R&B Odyssey Off Her Debut Album
Louder, Then, Out May 29
April 29, 2026: Today, emerging soul and jazz vocalist Alicia Waller released “Tempo 120”, an epic R&B odyssey off her debut album Louder, Then, out May 29. Conceived in dialogue with a variety of musical idioms within the African diaspora, the release defies gender stereotypes from the perspective of a woman making no apologies for following her muse. A classically trained singer with a masters degree in international relations and music diplomacy, the release finds Waller using her cross-cultural expertise to create tapestries; ranging from her renowned plush, dreamlike sound, to contemporary soul bangers.
“I think a lot about the sound of a Black woman in conversation with the world,” Waller says. “With ‘Tempo 120’ I wanted to write a song that would capture the story of a woman freeing herself from societal expectations of ‘femininity.’ Instead, I wanted to play with a driving sound that is often more associated with masculinity, while telling a story that is, ironically, utterly feminist. The howl at the top says it all.”
Co-produced by bassist/arranger Marcos Varela (Gary Bartz, Billy Hart and Geri Allen), Alicia Waller’s debut album is an unapologetically ambitious introduction to her musical world. Steeped in her love of contemporary R&B and jazz, and filtered through a global array of influences, the release represents the culmination of years of creative evolution and collaboration. Following her 2020 EP, Some Hidden Treasure, the duo’s partnership deepened, aiming to replace traditional songwriting with “world building”. The result is filled with rich, diverse textures that emphasize the density and conversation between parts.
Beyond her influences, Waller’s music aims to defy the false stereotypes of a female artist, opting for a sound that is heavy, driven and rebellious. Defying the patriarchal boundaries of feminine expression and forged from a conviction for deep development and introspection, Louder, Then is a declaration to herself and the world that her voice will be heard.
Photo Credit: Kendra Irene
Upcoming Shows:
May 7 – Fullerton, CA – Muckenthaler Cultural Center
May 28 – New York, NY – Grey Lady (Louder, Then Release Celebration)
June 3 – Barcelona, ES – Jamboree Jazz
December 4 – Scottsdale, AZ – ASU Kerr
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