One of California’s best-kept secrets, Shawn Thies has been vocalizing up and down the coast since the age of 14. Influenced by Americana, Celtic, Folk, Jazz, Rock, Pop and Choral music, Shawn is often compared to vocalists such as Alison Kraus, Joni Mitchell, Eva Cassidy and Judy Collins. It’s difficult to confine her into one category as her vocal sound delivers across many genres in the musical spectrum, with a voice music critics have described as “emotive and vulnerable, yet rich and smoothly accessible.” Her stylings create an intimate, inclusive musical space, often stirring emotion in listeners through recordings and live performance alike.
Shawn’s new album, “A Song of You,” features a collection of original songs by author/singer/songwriter Monte C. Schulz. The genre reflects Contemporary Folk and Americana sounds with a twist of Country, Celtic and Pop, weaving stories of love and loss, hope and regret, joy and sorrow. Shawn’s heart-felt vocal delivery elevates the music into another realm, evoking the human experience through American musical poetry at its best.
Her first album, “New Beginnings at Christmas,” (2004) is a timeless collection of original and traditional holiday songs with Folk, Celtic and Americana influence. Shawn’s title cut “New Beginnings at Christmas” won First Runner–up in VH1’s Folk song-writing category in 2005.
Currently Shawn is mastering a cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” with plans to release it in April 2020, and is writing new music. (Recorded with NYC singer-songwriter Eugene Ruffolo, Randall Tico, producer David West & Charlie Bisharat)
Shawn is accompanied by exceptional musicians in live and recorded performances, and works on multiple recording projects, singing lead and arranging complex vocal harmonies. She has also appeared on an episode of “King of The Hill” and was recruited as guest lead vocalist for the Monday Madness Big Band Jazz Ensemble 2017-2018. She has also collaborated with some of the most highly respected producers and musicians in the business, including Producer David West of Cache Valley Drifters fame; Sound Designer Randall Tico, who has produced for Jeff Bridges, among many others; and Brian Mann, renowned producer of Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald.
Stay tuned, as you will hear more from Shawn soon!
