How a Super Bowl Performance Inspired Nita Strauss’ Musical Journey
As a young girl, Nita Strauss was profoundly influenced by Jennifer Batten’s electrifying guitar performance during Michael Jackson’s legendary Super Bowl halftime show in 1993.This pivotal moment ignited her passion for shredding and set her on a path toward a vibrant music career. Little did she know that years later, she would receive an unexpected opportunity to audition for the King of Pop himself.
A Surprising Opportunity in 2010
Fast forward to 2010, and strauss found herself on the brink of a remarkable encounter with the Jackson legacy. “Kill Slowly,” a band she had formed, had recently recorded music with the help of Michael Prince, a seasoned engineer who had collaborated with Michael Jackson for decades.
“One day,he reached out and asked,‘Would you be interested in auditioning for Michael Jackson?’ I was completely taken aback and thought,‘Absolutely,yes!’” Strauss recalled. Even though the audition never materialized, Prince later contacted her with an exciting proposition: Jermaine Jackson wanted to organize tribute concerts for his late brother, and he invited Strauss to join the project.
Embarking on a Tribute Tour
This led to a brief but exhilarating tour across Africa with Jermaine jackson, were Strauss performed a diverse selection of songs from The Jackson 5, The Jacksons, and Michael Jackson’s extensive catalog. “I gained invaluable insights into funk music and had the chance to work alongside Tito and Randy jackson, who were both fantastic,” Strauss shared in a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone.
“We played in massive soccer stadiums in countries like gambia and Senegal, where safety was a concern, and we had to be cautious when going out.” This experience proved to be a notable eye-opener for Strauss,highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of life on the road. “that’s the beauty of this profession – there’s always something new to learn at every turn,” she added.
From a Dream Call to Funky Jams: Nita Strauss Auditions for the King of Pop and Rocks with His Brother!
From a Dream Call to Funky Jams: Nita Strauss Auditions for the King of Pop and Rocks with His Brother!
The Spark of Inspiration
Nita Strauss, a renowned guitarist, found her passion for music at a young age. The pivotal moment came when she witnessed Jennifer Batten’s electrifying performance during michael Jackson’s iconic 1993 Super Bowl halftime show.This experience ignited her desire to pursue a career as a shredder, leading her to hone her skills and develop her unique style.
A Life-Changing Call
Fast forward to 2010, and Strauss received an unexpected call that would change her life forever. Michael Prince,a seasoned engineer who had worked closely with Michael Jackson,reached out to her with an incredible prospect.
- Audition for Michael Jackson: Prince asked if Strauss would be interested in auditioning for the King of Pop himself.
- Tribute Concerts: Although the audition never took place, Prince later informed her that Jermaine Jackson wanted to organize tribute concerts for his late brother, inviting Strauss to join the project.
Joining Jermaine Jackson on Tour
This led to a thrilling tour across Africa with Jermaine Jackson, where Strauss performed a mix of songs from The Jackson 5, The Jacksons, and Michael Jackson’s extensive catalog. The experience was not only musically enriching but also culturally enlightening.
Highlights of the Tour
| Location |
Venue |
Notable Experience |
| Gambia |
national Stadium |
Performed in front of a massive crowd, feeling the energy of the audience. |
| Senegal |
Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor |
Encountered local culture and music, enhancing her performance style. |
Learning and Growth
During her time on tour, Strauss gained invaluable insights into funk music and performance dynamics. She had the opportunity to work alongside Tito and Randy Jackson, further deepening her understanding of the Jackson family’s musical legacy.
Key Takeaways from the Experience
- Musical Versatility: Strauss learned to adapt her playing style to fit various genres,notably funk.
- Cultural Awareness: Traveling to different countries opened her eyes to diverse musical influences and traditions.
- Networking: collaborating with established artists like Jermaine Jackson provided her with valuable connections in the industry.
Benefits of Touring with Established Artists
Touring with well-known musicians like Jermaine Jackson offers numerous benefits for aspiring artists:
- Exposure: performing in front of large audiences helps build confidence and stage presence.
- Skill Development: Learning from seasoned professionals enhances musical abilities and performance techniques.
- Industry Insights: Gaining firsthand experience in the music industry provides valuable knowledge about the business side of music.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Musicians
If you’re an aspiring musician looking to follow in Nita Strauss’s footsteps, consider these practical tips:
- Practice Regularly: Dedicate time each day to practice your instrument and develop your skills.
- Network: Attend music events, workshops, and jam sessions to meet other musicians and industry professionals.
- stay Open-Minded: Be willing to explore different genres and styles to expand your musical repertoire.
- Utilize Social Media: Share your music online to reach a wider audience and connect with fans.
First-Hand Experience: Nita Strauss’ Journey
In a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone, Strauss reflected on her experiences during the tour, stating, “I learned so much about playing funk, and I also got to work indirectly with Tito and Randy Jackson, who were great. It was a really eye-opening experience all around.”
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