From her early days singing with her parents’ band to becoming a standout on American Idol, Haley Reinhart has carved a unique path in the music world. Buzzfeed ranked her cover of Bennie and the Jets as the most iconic performance in the show’s history. She’s known for her soulful interpretations of classics like Creep and Can’t Help Falling in Love, which have racked up millions of views online.
Haley’s journey started when she joined her high school jazz band for performances at the Montreux and Umbria Jazz Festivals. “They had never had a singer before,” she recalls. “I basically just threw myself out there with nothing to lose.”
Her jazzy rendition of Radiohead’s Creep with Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox became a viral sensation. Surprisingly, the video was filmed on a rare day off during a grueling tour. “We only did two takes and took the first one,” Haley says. “I think it captured a vulnerable quality that people connected to.”
Known for her powerful vocals and distinctive growl, Haley says the technique developed naturally during her time on American Idol. “It’s just something that comes from the diaphragm,” she notes, adding that it’s become an authentic part of her style.
Fans in Columbus can catch Haley on December 11th as part of the Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour. Expect holiday classics, soulful harmonies, and even a rendition of Ave Maria. “It’s a very different kind of show from my own, and I’m so happy to be a part of it,” she says.
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