KELLY QUINN

LEAD VOCALS | BACKGROUND | PERCUSSION

For Kelly Quinn, music isn't just a passion—it's a familial legacy, a lifelong journey and a boundless source of joy.

With roots deeply embedded in Big Rapids, Quinn's musical journey traces back to her childhood, where the melodies of her parents' music store, Quinn's Music, formed the backdrop of her upbringing.

"My parents opened it in 1968," Quinn said. "When my father passed away unexpectedly in 1977, Marc Conley took over management and eventually bought it from my mom in the early '80s,” she said.

The store, a hub for musical life in the community, became more than just a business to Quinn—it was a sanctuary for musicians.

"There is an incredible musical emotion attached to the store in my heart," she said. "I love that Marc and his wife, Deb, have done such an incredible job keeping it going all these years."

Quinn's journey into the world of music began amidst the camaraderie of local musicians who frequented her family's store.

"Growing up, my dad would have lots of local musicians hanging around the store all the time. It was a real treasure for me to see their interactions,” she said.

A dream emerged from these formative musical experiences —to become a famous singer and grace the Lawrence Welk Show stage with a “cool microphone” in hand. Though her dreams may have shifted over the years, Quinn's passion for music remained steadfast.

"I started performing at a very young age with my three sisters. We sang for mother/daughter banquets, nursing homes and local events. We were also involved in our church at the time,” she said.

As Quinn's musical journey unfolded, she ventured beyond local venues, recording in Nashville and Las Vegas. Yet, the pull of her Michigan roots eventually brought her home in 2007.

"I knew Michigan was where I belonged," Quinn said. "There is an abundance of talent in Big Rapids and the surrounding areas, and I really count myself very fortunate to have played with many of them.”

In recent years, Quinn has found her musical home in the blues, forming the Kelly Quinn Blues Experience—a testament to her love for the genre's passion and heart.

"Music to me is like having another limb. It is something that is so innately important to have in your life,” she said.

An ensemble of musicians now surrounds Quinn, who she said each has their unique flair.

"The band as a whole is something I am outlandishly proud of. I believe God has placed all of these wonderful souls on my path, and we have created something very special together,” she said.

Quinn’s love for music extends beyond the notes on a page but is a spiritual guide and an avenue to make the most of life.

"As I always say, when you listen to your musical soul, it definitely knows the way. And when you do, nothing can stop you. Most of all, have the best fun of your life," she said.