Jennie DeVoe, an Indiana native and Ball State University graduate, has built a rock-solid career without the backing of a major label–a conscious decision that has allowed her to remain fiercely independent and create music on her own terms. Her personal style of Americana-Soul-Roots and Blues music has earned her loyal fans of all ages and from all musical genres. Schooled on her father’s big band records, as well as recordings by Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, and Ray Charles, Jennie says she latched onto their gospel feel, but also focused on melodies you could hang a hat on. “For me, when I write my music, I appreciate jam bands and all kinds of other music, but I appreciate the old soul stuff. I feel comfortable there,” says Devoe.
Purist fans loyal to folk, blues, jazz and soul music all find something to love in Jennie’s music, which is not an easy feat. She thrills festival and concert series goers, one minute having them on their feet and dancing, in the next scooping up their laughter with her “accidental comedy,” and in the next hypnotizing them into awed attention with her powerful voice. Says Melissa Mayer of the Boone County Sun, “DeVoe’s voice is a delicious mix of scratchy blues and sweet low notes. Her music is born of a unique marriage of folk and funk. She sprinkles in rhythm and blues sounds and a few well chosen covers to create a great live show. She also manages to draw the audience in with her anecdotes and personal stories between each song.”
Jennie has shared stages with Bonnie Raitt, John Hiatt, Patty Griffin, Gregg Allman, Joe Cocker, Lucinda Williams, Jack Johnson, Ray Charles, and many more. Named one of Indy’s top 50 “Entertainers of the Decade” by The Indianapolis Star, Jennie is at her best in front of a listening audience, never failing to mesmerize and captivate with her talent, humor and personality. No matter the venue, DeVoe makes you feel like you’re in your living room with old friends – until she knocks you flat with her amazing voice, and you forget where you are entirely. DeVoe is the kind of singer who makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand at attention. To watch her work is to fall in love with someone who is in love with what they do.
Jennie has declined numerous major label offers and has produced seven studio albums, two live cds, a Christmas album and a dvd on her own label, Rubin the Cat Records. SonyRED was so impressed with her critically acclaimed Strange Sunshine album that they offered her a distribution deal, bringing her to many new ears, while still allowing her to retain her artistic freedom. DeVoe is a prolific writer, with songs stuffed in drawers and often filling up her own voicemail with ideas.
This event is free and open to the public! To learn more, visit the Muncie Three Trails Music Series website.