Katarra

Katarra Parson is an embodiment of artistry and a true visionary in today’s music landscape. Hailing from St. Louis, MO, she is a vocalist, songwriter, pianist, producer, composer, activist, and aspiring fashion designer who continues to push creative boundaries with her distinct fusion of genres and dedication to storytelling through sound.

Growing up in a family deeply rooted in music—her mother having directed a choir for over 30 years—Katarra's love for the art began early. At the age of seven, she was already composing melodies on a wooden upright piano. By twelve, she was writing her own music, using it as a form of expression and healing. Her self-taught journey into music eventually led her to become a full-time performer by 2017, with her sound becoming a unique blend of Soul, Jazz, R&B, Hip-Hop, and Classical influences. Inspired by legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Lauryn Hill, and Stevie Wonder, Katarra has crafted her own universe of sound—a place where escapists and romantics can immerse themselves in a kaleidoscope of emotions.

Her music is deeply personal, capturing the highs and lows of love, passion, self-reflection, and the need for societal change. "My music ranges from emotionally explosive ballads to boom-bap R&B grooves to Jazz-centered Prometheans," she explains, "all spilling from one place: the soul." Katarra uses her music to tap into universal themes, offering listeners a sonic journey that mirrors the complexities of life and human experiences.

Katarra’s career took off at "Lyrical Therapy," St. Louis' third-largest open mic, where she overcame years of stage fright and truly began to blossom as a multifaceted artist. It was here that she captivated audiences with her original compositions and performances, marking her entry into the local music scene. Her success at Lyrical Therapy opened doors, allowing her to develop as a singer, songwriter, and performer, which quickly led to more prominent opportunities in St. Louis and beyond.

Some notable highlights of her career include joining the artist collective "WeAreFarfetched" led by multidisciplinary artist Damon Davis, receiving an 18-month Jazz Residency with the Kranzberg Arts Foundation, performing at the historic inauguration of Tishaura Jones as St. Louis’ first Black woman mayor, and opening for Grammy-winning group Boyz II Men. She has performed multiple times for Congresswoman Cori Bush, further underscoring her commitment to activism and community empowerment. Additionally, she has shared her empowering message through music at events like TedX St. Louis Women.

Her debut album, ‘Cocoa Voyage’, was released in 2019 to critical acclaim. It earned her a spot on Bandcamp’s ‘Best Soul of 2019’ and The Riverfront Times' 'Best Local Music of 2019.' The project was praised for its depth, musicality, and emotional range, solidifying Katarra as a fresh voice in the Soul/R&B and Jazz genres. Over the years, her story has been covered by prominent St. Louis media outlets, including ‘The St. Louis Post-Dispatch’, ‘STL Magazine’, ‘STL American’, ‘Higher Education Television’, and ‘NPR St. Louis Public Radio’.

In her live performances, Katarra captures audiences with her soulful runs, her revival of jazz scat, and her ability to infuse modern genres with timeless musical elements. Her performances have been described as "a musical revolution wrapped up in one woman," as she blends classical training with innovative composition and raw emotion. She doesn’t just perform; she creates an experience—one that takes listeners through love, passion, heartbreak, self-discovery, and social justice, creating a space where music can inspire, heal, and bring communities together.

Katarra Parson is not just an artist; she is a movement—an advocate for love, justice, and the healing power of music. Whether performing at national festivals, jazz lounges, or community events, she remains an influential force, inspiring and uplifting with every note.