Melissa Etheridge is an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and activist renowned for her distinctive raspy voice and heartfelt music that blends elements of rock, pop, and folk. Born on May 29, 1961, in Leavenworth, Kansas, Etheridge picked up the guitar at a young age and cut her teeth performing in local bands before attending the Berklee College of Music in Boston. She dropped out to pursue her music career in Los Angeles and quickly garnered attention for her passionate performances at local venues.

Etheridge's eponymous debut album was released in 1988, and she rocketed to fame in the early '90s with hits such as "Bring Me Some Water," "I'm the Only One," and the Grammy Award-winning single "Come to My Window." Her confessional songwriting style and engaging live performances have fostered a dedicated fan base over the decades. An outspoken advocate for LGBTQ rights and environmental issues, Etheridge's music often reflects her personal experiences and societal concerns. She continues to release new material and tour extensively, solidifying her position as an enduring icon in American music. Her recent ventures onto the Broadway scene with projects like "Melissa Etheridge On Broadway" showcase her versatility as an artist and her ability to resonate with a broad spectrum of audiences, while songs like "One Way Out" underpin her enduring commitment to artistic evolution and expression.

Genres

Ectofolk

Heartland Rock

Lilith

Pop Rock

Singer-songwriter

Related Artists

Sarah McLachlan

Tracy Chapman

Sheryl Crow

Indigo Girls

Bonnie Raitt

k.d. lang

Alanis Morissette

Stevie Nicks

Pat Benatar

Brandi Carlile

Joan Osborne

Liz Phair

Latest Release

I'm Not Broken (Live From Topeka Correctional Facility)

Melissa Etheridge

Album - 23 Tracks - Released July 9, 2024