BIO
Paula is an Austin-based performing songwriter with a penchant for melody, storytelling and poetic lyricism. Raised in New England and Spain, her music is informed by a variety of influences from classical music to popular Jazz, Folk, Rock and Blues. She's won songwriting kudos from internationally known songwriting clubs like the Kerrville Folk Festival, Wildflower Festival and the John Lennon Songwriting Contest (double finalist). She’s performed in many hallowed listening rooms including the Cactus Cafe, Momo's Club, Saxon Pub, Blue Bird Cafe, Anderson Fair, Bugle Boy, Eddie's Attic and more.
Paula's music is described as lyrically rich, melodic and sensual, and her voice is cited as reminiscent of Norah Jones and Diana Krall. She's been a staple in the Austin music scene since 2007, sharing her pop & jazz inspired original music as well as Folk, Americana and Popular standards. She's collaborated with and performed as a duo with sidemen Andrew Hardin, Monte Mann, Paul...
Paula Held began playing music at my restaurant on February 11, 2011. Although crowds in a restaurant are always unpredictable, she's managed to develop a loyal local following and has drawn people from Austin to San Antonio. I've owned a bar, managed and owned restaurants and been a professional musician all of my life. For ten years I wrote a music column. In that time I have seen many hundreds of performers and learned to judge their quality of performance. Very few reach her level of excellence. When Paula picks up her guitar at the beginning of her set, her audience never knows what direction she’ll take. She slides effortlessly from country to jazz standards, to soft rock. When she sings a torch song she sounds like she was tutored by Julie London. When she sings the blues, the intensity of her delivery can cover anyone’s lyrics. Her own singer/songwriter creations also scan several genres and are remarkably crafted throughout. This is no cover copy singer. Though her scope forestalls any boredom at the front tables, it never loses that sense of artistic integrity so essential to a great performer. With a voice at once soulful and controlled and a guitar that plays any direction with seeming ease, she stays at the emotional center of of her music [accentuated and supported] by the intricate lead guitar work of Monte Mann. - Jimmy Ash, co-owner, Linda's Fine Foods, Wimberley TX
Paula captivates you with her voice, singing stories of life and love, heartbreak and heartache, hope and happiness. A voice at home in both rock and ballads, but also smoky and sultry in jazz. She interacts with her audience and establishes a mutual and warm partnership with them. Whether Paula is playing one of her original songs or putting a new sheen on covers of standards, you'll come away knowing you've seen an original talent.
Paula has an exquisite voice that reminds me of both Nora Jones and Carole King, and has the agility to soar with her jazz-folk melodies. Her songs can be soft and lyrical, and then cut deep into the pains of love and family. Whatever the topic, her words are fresh and well-crafted. She's a fine and delicate fingerpicker as well - the whole package as a solo artist. She's earned the awards she's won, and is always a pleasure to listen to.
