“one of the most potent singers to ever come out of the Twin Cities.” – Star Tribune
Tina Schlieske, a Midwestern rock mainstay, commands a dedicated and passionate following, especially in her hometown of Minneapolis. She’s best known for fronting the band Tina and the B-Sides. Her inaugural jazz recording, 2024’s The Good Life, sees Schlieske embarking on a transformative jazz odyssey. Here, this is her homage to the greats that have paved the way for voices like Tina’s to celebrate. Further, she celebrates giants like Billie Holiday and Frank Sinatra. Much like the influential rockers she has emulated, David Bowie, Tina Turner, Tina’s reverence for these giants shines through.
A luminary in the Minneapolis rock and Americana music circuit, Schlieske’s illustrious career spans over four decades. There, she has garnered numerous accolades, including a prestigious star adorning First Avenue’s legendary star wall. Also, she is renowned for her impassioned vocal delivery and magnetic stage presence. Thus, Schlieske’s pivot into the realm of jazz signifies a poignant milestone in her already illustrious career. Her transition into this new territory is a testament to her enduring artistic evolution and an exciting progression for her dedicated audience.
Schlieske has long held an affinity for jazz, but she left it unexplored until recent years. Here, this stemmed from an unanticipated desire to delve into the allure of classic standards within the contemporary musical landscape. “There is a certain simplicity in these complicated songs,” she reflects. “Singing jazz offers me the chance to push the boundaries of my vocal capabilities. It’s a whole new world compared to rock. Here, the voice becomes another instrument. Maintaining the essence of the melody while infusing personal interpretation presents a thrilling challenge that I find truly exhilarating.”
Recommended for fans of Indigo Girls, Etta James, Lucinda Williams and Melissa Etheridge.
