Melissa's Music
"Melissa has the voice of a soulful angel and puts everything she has into her songs and performance. She makes a personal connection with you through her music. But don't take my word for it. Download "My Voice" and listen for yourself. You may very well become a huge fan, just like me! Thanks, Melissa for sharing your radiant energy with us through your beautiful musical creations!" — Pete Calgaro, Music Director, Unity of Madison, WI
Inspirational, whimsical and passionate, the music of Melissa Simonson reflects the singer-songwriter's playful personality, past experiences and life mission to help others live out their dreams and find their voice. In her melodic folk style, Melissa’s music speaks directly to listeners with thoughtful lyrics and a clear, reassuring voice that travels from intimate to soaring. Her performances with the talented guitarist Joe Harris have been described as “upbeat music that will lift your soul," "smooth and easy to listen to," and "pure musical bliss."
Influenced early on by musical parents, Melissa has a classical and musical theatre background. She grew up listening with her mother to Barbara Streisand and picked up her passion, expression, vocal and breath control from years of singing along with Barbara’s old standards. Melissa fell in love with jazz in middle school and remembers singing along to Ella Fitzgerald recordings all throughout middle and high school. In more recent years, Melissa lists singers such as Sarah McLachlan, Shawn Colvin, Patty Griffin and India Arie as additional influences on her unique fusion of musical styles.
Melissa has collaborated with Joe Harris in recording her debut CD. The new album, due to come out in Fall 2011, includes 12 original songs ranging from her spirited title track "Be a Light," to the heartfelt lullaby "Beautiful Child" dedicated to her two godchildren, to "Purple Sky," a bluesy anthem to unrequited love. Her first recording project was made possible through a grassroots fund-raising effort and the support of family and friends who have been inspired by Melissa’s music.
With a B.A. in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a certificate in life coach training, Melissa founded her own life coaching practice, Ignite Your Voice Coaching, in 2006. "I began writing my own music in 2008 after asking myself one of my favorite coaching questions: 'If you could attempt one thing knowing that you could not fail, what would it be?' The answer for me was clear: I would be a singer/songwriter, and spread my message of love and empowerment through my music,” Melissa says. "I knew that it was time to start putting one foot in front of the other and pursue my dream."
— Rena Archwamety, Freelance Arts Reviewer
Contact Melissa about bringing her music to your retreat, convention, church, ceremony, or to create an intimate concert in your home.
What people are saying about Melissa and her music partner, Joe Harris:
"Melissa's songs reach into my soul." ~ Elizabeth Barrett
"I love these two musicians. There is talent and care in their music. When I hear them play together I feel like I'm floating in their lovely mellow sweet sweet sound." ~ Abigail Rheaume, Photographer, abbyrphotography.com
"Melissa and Joe played at the celebration of my 3rd anniversary. My clients, friends and supporters enjoyed their pure energy and melodious tunes. I highly recommend Melissa and Joe to anyone looking for harmonious, upbeat music that will lift your soul." ~ Heather Denson, Local Artist, www.heatherdenson.com
"Their music is smooth and easy to listen too. It is full of soul and style. I enjoyed every moving moment. Smile. Smile." Laura Godfrey, Yoga Instructor, www.itsallaboutyou-studio.com
"Melissa's lyrics and Joe's accompaniment make for beautiful music. Listening to such thoughtful words and impeccable harmony inspires a re-examination of oneself and the incredible world we share." ~ Melissa Schaefer, Filmmaker
"Joe & Melissa are 2 incredible individuals, and their music is the embodiment of harmony and joy. We loved them so much, we had them sing our favorite song for our wedding. I cherished every chord, every word, of pure musical bliss." ~ Lauri Schwartz
"Melissa Simonson's clear sweet voice is perfectly complemented by Joe Harris' remarkably accomplished instrumental guitar and occasional vocal harmonies. Together, their joyous music is filled with tenderness, energy and soulful passion as they gently wrap you in a loving blanket of sound." ~ Stuart Utley, www.madisonecobroker.com
"Melissa's lovely and maturing voice becomes transcendent when she sings out of her own life and experience. Dr. Joe Harris' wide-ranging guitar mastery never intrudes, only supports and enhances. A joy to hear. Vocal and instrumental versatility perfectly matched.” ~ Jim O’Brien
Photograph by Abby Rose Photography