Member Since: 7/30/2006
Band Website: www.tmi-music.com "MelissaKate.net
tmi-music.com
Band Members: I have been blessed to reside under the guidance of Mr. Van Taylor these last few years. He has helped me build a circle of musicians with whom I have played and who play with me that would otherwise be unimaginable. Walter Kemp III, Tim Webb, Jerry Sampson, Jerry Livingston, Richii Valentino, Joyce Wilson-Nixon, Will Holton, Mike Crimes, Jeff Nixon, Nelson Thomas, Brian Freeman, Kenny Hawkins, Wade Hawkins-- whether I've simply shared a stage with them or hired them for work- these are the musicians whom support me and I, in turn, wholeheartedly support.
Influences: John Hasselback who started me on Cain't Help Lovin Dat Man which seems an auspicious indication of my romantic life. Mr. Amuso who gave me the basics in jazz. Mrs. Patricia Oreskovic and Mr. Robert Wells who vocally trained me to sing classical music, and who willingly agreed with another teacher who claimed I will never sing Carmen. There's time to prove you wrong yet!!
Mom and the Sweet Adelines who taught me all about harmony, my entire musical theater repertoire that I continue to return to for storytelling and emotionally charged lyrics, and Joey Cavaseno who showed me how to listen to music.
Currently I am listening to: Serena Ryder, Nikki Hicks, Lance Diamond, Etta James, Van Taylor, Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, Abbey Lincoln, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Bjork, Paul Simon, Tagag, Chopin, Julie Andrews, The Andrews Sisters, Prince, Jimmy Scott, Karen Carpenter, Natalie Cole, Portishead, Duke Ellington, Carmen Mcraey, Joyce Wilson-Nixon & Juanita Duncan.
Mostly, I've been influenced by every musician I've ever felt connection with. I also am inspired by singers I have been in competition with-- for jobs, for attention, for money, for fun... you all make me strive to be better.
Sounds Like: Listen to some of my songs and let me know! I'll post your responses here.
Record Label: TM International
Type of Label: Indie