Kayla Waters is pianist and composer, known for her sparkling, contemporary jazz- and R&B-inspired sound. She debuted to chart success with 2017's Apogee and 2018's Coevolve, spawning several number one Smooth Jazz Airplay hits, including "I Am," "Zephyr," and "Full Bloom." In 2023, she delivered her third full-length, Presence.
Born into a musical family, Waters was introduced to music through her father, acclaimed smooth jazz saxophonist Kim Waters. From the age of six, she studied classical piano and eventually earned her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Howard University, where she graduated summa cum laude. As a performer, she made her debut playing on several of her father's albums before launching her own career. She has also shared the stage with a bevy of luminaries including Patrice Rushen, Maysa, Stevie Wonder, and others. Along with her performance career, Waters works as Director of Music and Worship at Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C. and holds the position of Music Director of the Howard University Early Learning Program. In 2017, she released her debut full-length album, Apogee, on Trippin N' Rhythm Records. Featured on the album was the single "I Am," which eventually topped Billboard's Smooth Jazz Airplay chart.
In 2018, Waters returned with her follow-up, Coevolve. It spawned several more number one smooth jazz hits, including "Zephyr" and "Full Bloom." In 2023, she moved to the Shanachie label, releasing the spiritually minded Presence, which also found her drawing inspiration from her love of the ocean. Included on the album was the spotlight track "Undulation."
