Music by Ilana Katz Katz

Ilana’s humble performance beginnings on Boston’s crowded subway platforms – where she played for more than a decade – unexpectedly morphed into an expanded world of performing ‘above ground.” She’s been hailed as “a star with her own blend of Blues and old-time Appalachian fiddling,” called “brilliant and soulful” by Blues master Ronnie Earl and deemed the “special sauce” to many bands.

A chance meeting with Ronnie Earl in 2013 resulted in him offering to accompany Ilana on her 2014 debut record. He subsequently showcased her in many shows. From there, her distinguished signature Blues style soon had her performing with a “who’s who” of Blues musicians around the country. Her records on Regina Royale and Vizztone Label Group garnered Living Blues charting accolades and a flurry of invitations to perform at Blues festivals. Her growing presence as a guest instrumentalist and songwriter for other artists continues to thrive and her latest endorsement as a Fishman artist helps her bring the music into the world with the best equipment possible.

She still enjoys bringing music to people – as she did in the subway. The post-pandemic environment brings her to street performing when she isn’t touring and recording. Her own brand of Blues and versatile improvisational style continues to flourish. She’s celebrated for her solo performances, as a band leader and for lending her fiddling prowess to various music ensembles. Her talents span many genres – including jazzy scat singing in sync with her fiddle – for which she is known.  She’s excited about her forthcoming 2021 release, “In My Mind.” It’s already being celebrated following the video release of one of the songs: Ain’t No Why.

Photo by Deke Rivers

Discography

I’ve Got Something To Tell You

I’ve Got Something To Tell You

Ilana’s Blues debut, featuring the fiddle. With Ronnie Earl supporting her, Ilana’s debut earned her original instrumental (Marlyn’s Blues) a finalist spot in coolest Blues song in the world by Big City Blues magazine.

movin' on ilana katz katz

Movin’ On

Mixing the old blues with some new shine. Her singing and fiddling put new spins on early traditional Blues songs, dovetailing nicely with her more modern originals and instrumentals.

subway stories ilana katz katz

Subway Stories

Ilana’s celebration of 10 years busking in Boston’s subway. This record is dedicated to the Killer Blues Headstone Project,
providing headstones for Blues musicians lying in unmarked graves, a cause where Ilana funnels much of her busking money.

movin' on ilana katz katz

In My Mind

Ilana’s blues and roots singing, songwriting and fiddling are featured with ten originals tracks and one traditional track. Dedicated to the memory of her friend Paul Oscher and honoring SheWolf Jones.

Other Collaborations