Elise LeGrow / Ben Aler

Elise LeGrow is a Canadian powerhouse vocalist who melds fiery passion and sophistication with just a hint of sandpaper grit. With a thunderous rasp, spellbinding style, and elegant, dynamic mystique, LeGrow has wowed everyone from Questlove to R&B legend Betty Wright.

“Elise possesses a flair for crafting a timeless song into her own,” says Wright. “She’s got a voice filled with emotion, strength, and credibility.”

LeGrow’s debut album, Playing Chess, draws from the catalog of Chicago’s iconic Chess Records, home to pioneers such as Muddy Waters, Etta James, Bo Diddley, and Chuck Berry. Rather than faithfully re-create such revered material, LeGrow’s interpretations completely transport these classic tracks to a world where the past and present are inextricably intertwined.

Ben Aler is a blues guitarist and singer.

Watch LeGrow’s music video for “Going Back Where I Belong”: