Singer and songwriter Becky Bliss grew up in a family of opera singers where she says she began learning vocal strength, control, and storytelling at an early age.  

In this latest edition of Jazz Master Class, Bliss discusses her musical background and shares a few excerpts from the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra’s upcoming concert, “Shaken, Not Stirred: A 007 Jazz Concert.” As the featured vocalist on May 30, Bliss will showcase classic James Bond film scores with “slick attire, suave demeanor, and a healthy helping of international intrigue.”  

Bliss started singing professionally at 5, when she recorded her first paid solo in a studio.  

After college, she moved to New York City and started an indie folk-rock band Barnaby Bright. The band released albums that gained national attention; they won the Grand Prize at the Songwriter’s Circle, made Amazon’s Top 100 Albums of the Year, and were listed in The New York Times’ Top 20 Christmas Albums of the Year. Their songs have also appeared on Netflix shows and other TV programs. 

After stints in New York and Nashville, Bliss now lives in her hometown of Kansas City where she continues to write, record, and grow as an artist.  

This class is presented in partnership with the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra. Since 2003, the group has celebrated Kansas City’s rich culture through performances and education.