Carina's Listening Lounge Lee Coulter and Rachel Jay

Lee Coulter

“The world needs more Lee Coulter songs”  - Martin Sexton

Lee Coulter and his music are a product of globalization in the 21st century – a multi-national, multi-racial artist existing between nations, cultures and belief systems attempting to bridge gaps and synchronize hearts through the uniting powers of words and music. Coulter brings together folk, soul, reggae, blues, jazz-pop…and a whole lot of heart. 

• Winner 2021 SDMA best acoustic/folk song. 
• 2011 Sirius XM Coffeehouse discovery of the year.
• #1 on iTunes Australia & NZ for We You Me (feat. Dixie Maxwell).

Coulter’s stylistic influences reflect his spiritual leanings—“an acoustic singer-songwriter mixed with a little bit of soul […] that's why Paul Simon is one of my favourites” headlinermagazine.net.  He embraces his multicultural heritage, saying his music “weaves in themes that speak to our common humanity".  His melodic, introspective style echoes Paul Simon’s rhythmic folk/world fusion and Bob Dylan’s lyrical earnestness. Locally, he’s often likened to Jason Mraz—San Diego’s mellow wordsmith—

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Rachel Jay

Finding Meaning in Melody
For Rachel Jay, music is how she makes sense of life. She writes lyrics drawn from nostalgia and freedom, blending folk’s narrative drive with jazz’s fluid rhythms. The result is honest songs that invite listeners to find their own stories within hers.

A Milestone Moment & What’s Next
Last year, Rachel’s heartfelt ballad “Over Again” earned her a nomination at the 2023 San Diego Music Awards—a moment that affirmed her belief in the power of raw, unfiltered expression. Since that recognition, she’s been hard at work in the studio, pouring her experiences into her debut EP. Over the coming months, each track will be released like a chapter in her evolving story—so stay tuned for those first‑listen moments!

When the Festival Lights Call
Offstage, Rachel is a devoted festival wanderer. To her, these gatherings are more than concerts—they’re grown‑up playgrounds where the childlike wonder in all of us comes roaring back. Between sets and serendipitous discoveries of new sounds, she rekindles the playful spark that fuels her own songwriting.

Stay connected with Rachel Jay’s journey—follow her socials for EP release dates, behind‑the‑scenes studio peeks, and (of course) her next festival wanderings. There’s a lot of heart on the way!