Melinda Rose
PRESS KIT
In 2023, Melinda made history as the first commercial vocalist for the US Army Blues Big Band, a role that has never before existed within The United States Army Band’s 51-year history.
"As a songwriter, Rodriguez writes melodically, with lyrics very personally connected to her own experience. The selections ... spoke to love’s disappointments, with a twist of wry to be heard, as well as bits of cleverness amidst the youthful angst. In a varied set there was plenty to admire. Rodriguez has been off to a good start."
-Marilyn Lester at Cabaretscenes.com
"Rodriguez has a clear, bright tone—a quality reminiscent of Jane Monheit, one of her mentors. She’s by no means a Monheit clone. Rodriguez very much brings her own style to the table, which ranges from fairly straightforward pop delivery to a swinging jazz approach marked by exquisite phrasing and scat-ability off the scales."
-Lydia Liebman Promotions
Accolades
Bio
At just 28 years old, Melinda Rose Rodriguez has already established herself as a rising star in the jazz world. She began her professional music journey at The New England Conservatory of Music and completed her degree with distinction at Florida International University under the guidance of Dr. Lisanne Lyons. Since high school, Melinda has been honored with four Downbeat Music Awards and two YoungArts awards.
Her performance credits are extensive, including appearances at the Miami Downtown Jazz Festival, Litchfield Jazz Festival, Rochester Jazz Festival, and international venues in Bermuda, Japan, and Puerto Rico. Melinda has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Michael Feinstein, Fred Hersch, Cyrille Aimee, and Jane Monheit, and has frequently collaborated with jazz luminary Kevin Mahogany.
In early 2019, Melinda secured first place in the International Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition held in Washington, D.C. and debuted with the Legendary Count Basie Jazz Orchestra. Her teaching experience includes roles as a teaching artist at the University of Illinois, Millikin University, and Illinois Wesleyan University while pursuing her master's degree in performance.
2020 marked a milestone with her performances at iconic venues like Birdland Jazz Club in New York City and Andy's Jazz Club in Chicago. She also won the Ben Tucker Jazz Award and the Johnny Mercer Award at the American Traditions Vocal Competition in Savannah, GA. Melinda appeared on Season 17 of NBC's "The Voice," where she collaborated closely with Kelly Clarkson.
Post-pandemic, she was honored with the People's Choice Award at the 2022 American Traditions Vocal Competition and debuted with the Asheville Symphony Orchestra. In 2023, Melinda made history as the first commercial vocalist for the US Army Blues Big Band, a unique role within The United States Army Band’s 51-year history.
Melinda was also a finalist and fourth place winner at the 2024 American Traditions Vocal Competition. In June 2023, she recorded her debut album, I'm On My Way, featuring a blend of original compositions and jazz standards. Released in July 2024, the album has garnered widespread acclaim.
Our latest Project: Melinda Rose & Frenchy Romero
I'm On My Way: Released July 2024
Available on all major streaming platforms
Reviews
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“Destiny has clearly determined that this partnership is built to last, and strong chemistry is on display in the designs these two produce. I'm On My Way is ironclad proof of that fact. Melinda Rose and Frenchy Romero are a match made in heaven. They may have already been aware of that, but now we are hip to it, too.”- Dan Bilawsky
“Melinda Rose and pianist Frenchy Romero are an amazing duo bringing wit, charm, sensitivity and improvisational energy to a mix of standards and a few Rose-penned originals on their continuously sparkling debut album I’m On My Way. Journeying amiably, and with snazzy phrasing and scat to spare, the collection artfully serves a traditional jazz community seeking sparks of freshness and uniqueness. The title of Rose and Romero’s album is truly a self-fulfilling prophecy – they’re definitely on their way!”- Jonathan Widran
“A stunning new jazz CD. Melinda Rose has a gorgeous, pure, velvet yet strong voice that is so refreshing to listen to. Her voice evokes vocal images of Nancy Wilson, Ella Fitzgerald and Anita O'Day but with her own personal styling. Pianist Frenchy Romero delivers a master class on how to accompany a great vocalist. She is creative and supportive but never interrupts Melinda's vocals. What a pleasure to listen to these two young and talented musicians. There is great sensitivity between these friends that produces some of the best jazz I have heard in a long time.”
“A dream album for any jazz vocalist fan.”- Robert Nicosia
“These two women have special chemistry and keep you thoroughly entertained with both Romero’s incredible technique on piano and Rose, with her lyrical interpretation of the stories and lovely singing of these memorable melodic standards. Both of these ladies are masters of their craft and, united, they are double trouble. If Melinda Rose or Frenchy Romero are playing anywhere near you, rush to the club or concert.”- Dee Dee Mcneil
Live Performances
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