The Full Story
A Powerful Voice & a Promising Release
Canadian-born vocal powerhouse Christena Rich just released her long-anticipated debut album on August 22, 2025, a stunning tribute to the timeless works of legendary composer Jimmy McHugh. With every note Christena sings, she brings a fresh perspective to McHugh’s iconic catalog, honoring the past while creating something entirely her own.
From the very first track, Rich’s rich, soul-drenched vocals invite listeners into a world of elegance, romance, and deep emotional resonance. Her dynamic interpretations breathe new life into classics, delivering performances that are both technically masterful and brimming with heartfelt expression. The album was produced in collaboration with Grammy-winning guitarist Laurence Juber, whose artistry adds an intimate, cinematic layer to the project.
Christena Rich has always had a voice that demands attention, and with this release, she cements her place as a bold new interpreter of the Great American Songbook. Whether you’re discovering McHugh’s music for the first time or revisiting it through Christena’s lens, this debut album promises marks more than just a first release, it's a bold introduction to a voice ready to be heard. Every lyric, every note, is a glimpse into a new era for Christena Rich. One shaped by honesty, fire, and fearless creativity. This is where the curtain rises on a voice far beyond the stage.
What’s Next for Christena Rich:
Christena Rich's album 'Jimmy's' was for Grammy Consideration in Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, Best Arrangement - 'Let's Get Lost' Instruments and Vocals, and Best Engineer, Non- Classical.
Tune in to hear Christena hosting Playing Favorites on Siriusly Sinatra XM and songs from 'Jimmy's' in rotation. You can find Christena's music on Local Los Angeles radio station KJAZZ 88.1 FM. Her versatility shines in collaborations with music legends, including a feature on Engelbert Humperdinck’s "The Living Years" and the licensing of her pop ballad "Without You" for Jennifer Tilly’s film Delux Combo Platter. Inspired by Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, and Etta James, Rich effortlessly blends classical training with contemporary soul, cementing her reputation as a dynamic and emotive performer. Her work with UK producer Lin Gardiner and tours with the Canadian female collective The Soul Sistahs highlight her mastery across R&B, pop, and jazz genres.
From Studio to Stage
Looking to the future, Rich is setting the stage for an electrifying new chapter, joining forces with legendary Wings guitarist Laurence Juber and his trio Guitar Noir for a series of live performances across Los Angeles. As well as appearing for her headlining shows at LA's most iconic jazz venues, like Catalina Jazz Club and Herb Alpert's Vibrato. Each show promises to be more than just a concert—it’s a full-bodied celebration of rhythm, melody, and connection. With her album as the centerpiece, and some retro-soul songs to showcase her power pipes, Rich transforms every stage into a living, breathing extension of her music, weaving together intricate grooves, heartfelt storytelling, and a timeless sense of joy. The result is a soundscape that blurs the line between the classic and the contemporary, inviting audiences to move, feel, and rediscover the magic of live music in its purest form.
