... descriptive soundscape that comes with a certain kind of warmth that has a way of wrapping itself around you and that creates a feeling of being welcome. ~ RAG MAG
A mother, singer-songwriter, author, and young survivor of breast cancer, Katy Tessmsan aims to help people find strength, courage, and optimism.
Since her 2023 album Fly and 2025 EP Turnbuckles, Tessman’s Mama-Americana style — celebrating life’s stumbles and summits — has earned praise from RnR Magazine as “a quietly inspiring pleasure” and from Americana UK for her “striking, pure country voice.” In addition to her music career, she is an award-winning children’s book author and a Minnesota Women’s Press Changemaker.
Since her 2023 album Fly and 2025 EP Turnbuckles, Tessman’s Mama-Americana style — celebrating life’s stumbles and summits — has earned praise from RnR Magazine as “a quietly inspiring pleasure” and from Americana UK for her “striking, pure country voice.” In addition to her music career, she is an award-winning children’s book author and a Minnesota Women’s Press Changemaker.
NEW EP : Lessons in the LivingLessons in the Living is a deeply personal collection that reflects on family, childhood, and the quiet lessons that shape a life. Rooted in Tessman’s signature warmth and honest storytelling, the songs explore what it means to grow up, grow older, and stay connected to the people who matter most.
The project carries an added layer of meaning as a true family collaboration. Tessman’s son, Louis “Sweet Lou” Tessman Stanoch, performs all instrumentation on the record while also handling the engineering, mixing, and production, giving the EP a cohesive, intimate sound that mirrors the personal nature of the stories. Written over several years, the songs come together as a reflection on memory, legacy, and everyday wisdom. Rather than focusing on grand, dramatic moments, Lessons in the Living finds meaning in the small, lasting experiences that stay with us. |
TurnbucklesKaty Tessman’s third album, Turnbuckles, is a testament to resilience, connection, and the strength we find in others.
Much like the album’s namesake, these songs serve as dependable anchors—holding us together, strengthening our connections, and keeping us steady through the push and pull of life. Backed by her band, also named The Turnbuckles, Katy delivers a rich, full sound that adds depth and energy to her heartfelt songwriting. Singles available from the album: |
[Tessman's live shows are] infectious, contagious, and all kinds of fun rolled into one." Tom Smouse, Smouse in the House
Katy Tessman is a great storyteller. Each song is a little vignette, and most are like a shot of warm encouragement from a strong, supportive voice." Ann Treacy, Mostly Minnesota
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Based in Minneapolis, Katy is also an award-winning children’s book author, celebrated as a CHANGEMAKER by Minnesota Women’s Press. “Our Mama is a Beautiful Garden” is her young family’s story battling breast cancer. The pandemic sparked a reawakening in Katy's songwriting, igniting a fresh surge of energy to start performing again. Using the wisdom she’s gained through breast cancer survival, heartbreak, and motherhood, Tessman’s songwriting helps her celebrate life’s stumbles and summits. This newfound inspiration led to her re-debut in 2022, marking a significant musical resurgence that led to selling out listening-room shows, releasing a handful of singles, A decade after her cancer diagnosis, Katy wrote a song that sums up the everyday-hero’s journey and published the accompanying lyric picture book, “Hero Now Crowned.”
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Engaged in outreach events, Katy shares her story, talent, and positivity, offering comfort to others. Stories and songs truly heal and her aim is to evoke laughter and tears, spread smiles, while fostering a sense of hope and togetherness.
Heartland Souvenirs Vol. 2-Dolly Parton
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Heartland Souvenirs is a new musical project that pays tribute to the timeless stories and melodies of iconic American songwriters. Rooted in nostalgia, this trio—featuring Nikki Lemire, Becky Schlegel, and Katy Tessman—celebrates the enduring power of classic songwriting, breathing new life into cherished songs that continue to resonate through fresh voices and heartfelt performances.
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Upcoming Shows (click for show details)
