Talaya

Talaya, a celebrated figure in the world of jazz radio, graces the airwaves with her captivating contemporary jazz on SiriusXM’s Watercolors, and she also hosts a weekly show on Real Jazz. Her radio journey began in her hometown of Albuquerque at KUNM, where she played jazz and Latin jazz. After studying at San Francisco State University, she joined KRE, a pioneering commercial jazz station, hosting the Latin jazz show “Sabor y Salsa.” KRE-FM later became KBLX “The Quiet Storm,” and she was pivotal in launching “The Quiet Storm” at KUTE in Los Angeles. She made history by interviewing Sade and playing “Smooth Operator” on the radio.

In 1988, “The Wave” welcomed her, and for over 30 years, she enjoyed massive ratings and commercial success. Talaya simultaneously voice-tracked for KYOT in Phoenix. For nearly a decade, she hosted “Nuestra Musica” on Armed Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS), bringing Latin music to troops worldwide.

Her accolades include the 1998 Radio and Records Industry Achievement Award for Smooth Jazz On-Air Personality, the 2012 GENII Award for Excellence in Radio, and recognition from organizations like NHMC and Los Angeles County and City Board of Supervisors.

Talaya, a proud member of SAG-AFTRA since 1981, lent her voice to numerous campaigns and iconic events, including the Screen Actors Guild Awards. She’s performed with renowned artists and sang at notable venues like the Vatican. Her love for jazz, smooth presentations, and passion for music have driven her forward, and she continues to share her joy with audiences worldwide while maintaining her infectious smile.

To top