Paola Jean
In Bern, Switzerland an 11 year old Paola Kraehenbuehl sings in her school choir and discovers her desire for the stage. Choir practice led to competitions and winning led to the conviction that music is her message.
Vocally trained at the Swiss Jazz School, her singing/songwriting career since then has only moved in the positive direction. Shortly after recording her first demo with producer Ben Thaler, the two became known as pioneers of soul music in Switzerland, Paola’s song “You gotta know what you want” was aired in Montreal, Canada. Using this momentum her singing ability was noticed by national and international artist’s R&B singer Emel, and rapper Kamel of the famous French group Alliance Ethnic with whom she co-wrote several songs with. Paola knew exactly what she wanted. She recorded her first single “Strong” with Session All-stars Compilation released on Universal Records as well as re-writing and performing the anthem of her hometown in Switzerland.
While working as a registered nurse, opportunity presented itself. Winning a spot on Pop Stars (Switzerland’s equivalent to American Idol) was key exposure and a catalyst for a number of performances; attracting audiences with a 10-piece band in Russia, Germany and the renowned Montreux Jazz Festival, where she performed alongside The Roots’ Rahzel. In December 2004 she recorded a song with black thought, for the upcoming Roots album. Wait for the release in 2006.
Paola resides in Los Angeles and Brooklyn working with well versed producer Selan Lerner, whose musical prowess is only complemented by his counterparts. The musical director for R&B singer Joe also works with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Roberta Flack, and Masters at Work and DJ Spinna, Luis Vega.
Paola and Selan’s work is effective. Her lyrics inspired by life and her sounds are original and a joy for all ears. On stage, this spirited young woman is a breath of fresh air, touching the audience with her positive energy. With a candid approach, she takes us on a journey of funky soul music, arriving to captivating ballads. In 2005 she’s working with Move.meant an upcoming hip hop group from California. There music is on the Soundtrack Crash, an Audi commercial. With this team we can expect a great combination of fat hip hop beats combined with her velvet-soul voice, a sound you can’t stop shaking your head to it.
“I live to feel, breathe and be music. Music touches without judging and changes people in the best way. I write songs about life, society, nature and everything that surrounds the you and me. I try to keep my mind open and be inspired and inspire my audience with my music from an honest soul.” – Paola Jean New York 2005.
