Stella Cole, a rising star in the music industry, recently had a dream collaboration come to life with none other than Tony Award-winning actor Darren Criss. Their partnership culminated in a stunning performance on the TODAY show in December 2024, where they mesmerized audiences with their rendition of “Snow.” What makes this collaboration even more special is Stella’s long-time admiration for Darren, tracing back to her days as a young ‘Glee’ fan in middle school.
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The serendipitous connection between Stella and Darren began on Instagram in November 2022 when Darren stumbled upon a clip of Stella singing “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” Impressed by her talent, he extended an invitation for her to join him at The Carlyle in New York City. Stella recalls the experience as a defining moment in her career, highlighting Darren’s generosity and passion for supporting emerging musicians.
Embracing her love for classic movie musicals, Stella’s musical journey has been deeply influenced by iconic films like ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ ‘Singin’ in the Rain,’ and ‘Meet Me in St. Louis.’ Her enchanting vocals, often compared to legends like Judy Garland and Rosemary Clooney, have captivated audiences worldwide, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic when her rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” went viral.
Following her viral success, Stella continued to make waves in the music scene with covers of timeless songs like “Moon River” and “Cry Me a River,” catching the attention of renowned artists such as Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox. Her distinct blend of nostalgia and modern flair has earned her performances at prestigious venues like Birdland, Carnegie Hall, and Madison Square Garden, solidifying her status as a standout talent.
Stella’s latest album, ‘It’s Magic,’ pays homage to the enchanting allure of old Hollywood and the Great American Songbook. With covers of classics like “Till There Was You” and “Fools Rush In,” Stella aims to transport listeners to a world of timeless romance and artistic beauty. Through her music, she hopes to introduce a younger audience to the rich heritage of the Great American Songbook and inspire a new appreciation for these beloved melodies.
As Stella prepares to embark on a tour in support of ‘It’s Magic,’ she anticipates enchanting audiences in cities across the United States and Europe, spreading the magic of her music far and wide. From New York to Atlanta, and beyond, Stella’s tour promises to bring her unique blend of vintage charm and contemporary style to audiences eager for a musical journey unlike any other.
In a world where nostalgia meets innovation, Stella Cole shines as a beacon of musical excellence, blending the timeless elegance of classic movie musicals with a fresh, modern approach. With Darren Criss by her side and a voice that evokes the golden era of Hollywood, Stella’s star continues to rise, captivating hearts and inspiring a new generation of music enthusiasts to fall in love with the magic of timeless melodies.