Hailing from Miami, and fresh from an exciting debut album that showcased a sound filled with thoughtfulness and cinema, VALERIE, a singer-songwriter since her early childhood, brings an unfiltered, creative authenticity to her craft. VALERIE’s lack of formal musical training is, in her eyes, a boon to her creativity, allowing her to defy conventions and experiment freely with sound and narrative.
VALERIE‘s new single ‘Havana Nights’ is a rich tour of multiple genres, her sound seems to transcend the influences it lies on, showcasing a different side to her music with sprinkles of the foundations heard in her debut album. The Latin bounce, forward-moving percussion and bouncy piano melodies all come together to create a vibrant scene, you can feel the hustle, the warmth, the sun, each moment a blessing of audio. The trumpets blow the flutes swaying, and every instrument is on a journey of its own, culminating to support a passionate vocal performance that holds an angelic presence.
VALERIE comments, “In 1980, my grandfather risked everything to bring his family to the United States, boarding a small ship during the Mariel boatlift with my grandmother, my mother, and my uncle. Before they faced the seas, he spoke these words to his family: “We’re going on a journey that will be difficult. No matter what happens, don’t cry. You have to be brave.”
43 years later, he faced the most difficult and universal trial — the journey from this life to the next. I wanted to write him a song that communicated my gratitude for everything he had given me without dampening his spirits. I wanted the song to echo that message he gave his family 43 years ago: “Ahora no llores.”
On May 15, 2024, on what would have been his 72nd birthday, I released “Havana Nights.” When you listen, you’ll get to hear about his journey and the legacy he left behind.”