Name: Shelley Tulo
Location: Springfield, IL
Band: Tennessee Borderline

How do you prepare/warmup to sing for a whole show?

For me, warming up for a show depends on how frequently we’ve been gigging. If we’re on a multiple gig weekend, I run through some sirens and scales in the bathroom while finishing up my hair and in the car on my way to the gig. Keeping things loose in my “break” and staying hydrated is key for me in saving my voice. If we’re coming back from a weekend off, my voice is usually fresh and rested which means one great sound check and I’m ready to ROCK!

What is your drink of choice on a show night?

Water! While I usually enjoy a pre-show drink to take the edge off, I usually stick to water during gigs. I learned a long time ago that even though she knows she off key, drunk Shelley can’t seem to get on pitch LOL.

What’s your remedy when your voice is gone and the show is about to start?

Nothing stresses me out more than when I know my voice is already strained or going out. Similar to the ice/heat trick that athletes use for muscle strains, I sorta have a similar protocol. It may sound silly but, I ice my chords down with a Coke Icee first. Even though the caffeine isn’t the best idea, it really soothes my throat (and I LOVE them like crack lol). Then I usually move on to brewed “throat coat” tea and popping honey lemon cough drops like crazy. Once the gig starts is LOTS of ice water. Again, staying hydrated is key for me.

What singers inspire you?

There are so many from so many kinds of music! Nancy Wilson (Heart), Steve Perry, Carrie
Underwood, Reba McEntire, Demi Levato, Mariah Carey, Gretchen Wilson, Pink, Kelly Clarkson and Springfield’s own, Mary Jo Curry – she’s the real deal, right here!

What song has challenged you the most?

“Since You’ve Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson. I LOVE it and it’s so fun to sing but that girl takes her vocals to new heights during the bridge of that song. I’ve tried with a few bands over the years and my belt just doesn’t reach the stratosphere like her does in that one. I’ll stick to Steve Perry’s high notes. 🙂