SPIRE LOBBY SERIES: JESSE LYNN MADERA

Presented by The Antonia and Vladimir Kulaev Cultural Heritage Fund.

This series showcases local and regional musicians in a relaxed and intimate setting. The lobby is transformed into a 70-seat showcase lounge!

“Jesse Lynn Madera possesses a voice and vision that burrows deep into the heart of things. Whether it is on her own wonderful songs, or a new look at an older song like “Unchained,” she owns it, and, in short order, owns you. It was a rare gift to work with her.” – Dan Navarro

Included in Music Connection magazine’s annual list of “Hot 100 Best Live Unsigned Artists and Bands” in both 2022 and 2024, Jesse Lynn Madera is celebrated for crafting musical tales with profound and relatable lyrics while effortlessly blending diverse genres. American Songwriter praised her, saying, “Madera’s lyrical and piano-driven songs are passionate and alluring, with a dramatic, ethereal, and almost otherworldly tone. Evoking comparisons to the shapeshifting brilliance of Kate Bush and the confessional pop sensibilities of Tori Amos.”

Music industry tastemakers are taking notice of Madera’s distinctive talent. Music Connection Magazine recognized her as one of their Hot 100 Live Unsigned Artists. Last year, she emerged as a top 12 finalist (out of 6,000 entries) in the Americana category of the Unsigned Only competition due to her compelling performance of “Unchained.”

Madera’s dedicated fan base is a testament to her captivating live performances, which include sold-out shows at renowned venues like New York’s Bitter End and Nashville’s The Bluebird (where she shared the stage with Dan Navarro, Pete Mroz & Jim Photoglo). She has had a significant festival presence, appearing at Mile 0, 30A, Annapolis Songwriters, and Mile of Music. Madera was selected as a headliner for WMOT’s Finally Friday live concert series in Nashville, further solidifying her musical prowess. A dynamic performer, she has provided show support for and/or shared billing with acclaimed artists like The Zombies, Dan Navarro, Jill Sobule, Maddie Poppe, and Mary Fahl.

In her latest milestone, her single “No Place to Shine” reached #1 for four consecutive weeks on the UK & EU Hot Disc country chart. Madera’s most recent album, Speed of Sound, was produced by the esteemed Dan Navarro (Lowen & Navarro), seven-time Grammy winner Jim Scott, and Grammy-winner Ryan Hadlock (Lumineers, Zach Bryan), showcasing a promising new chapter in her evolving artistry.