November 3, 2026

The Minnesota Music Note - Ep 79 - Finding Their Own Sound with Michelle Hernick and Kelly Jantz

What happens when experienced musicians step outside their comfort zones, try something new, and discover a whole different side of performing? Michelle Hernick and Kelly Jantz join Will to talk about their musical journeys, how they found their way into the Twin Cities music scene, and why having fun and making music their own matters more than getting everything perfect. From playing together in a laundry room during COVID to building multiple bands and taking requests from audiences mid-song, Michelle and Kelly share plenty of stories about the people, experiences, and unexpected opportunities that have shaped their careers. In this episode we talked about: 🎸 How Michelle and Kelly met through Spin Cycle and turned their smaller duo project, Line Dry, into another musical adventure. 🎤 Michelle's journey from community theater and karaoke to performing with bands, finding her voice, and learning to make songs her own. 🎶 Kelly's decades-long music career, including his first band Options Open and the unforgettable experience of opening for Paul Revere and the Raiders at just 18 years old. 🔥 Why they love taking audience requests, experimenting with unexpected songs, and sometimes figuring things out right there on stage. 🤝 How the Minnesota music community has changed over the years, with more collaboration, more opportunities, and musicians helping each other get gigs. 🎵 Their experiences with original music through Record Profits and why they enjoy blending different genres instead of sticking to one sound. ❤️ Their earliest memories of music, the artists who inspired them, and the moments that made them realize music would always be part of their lives. Watch the full episode to hear more of Michelle and Kelly's stories, their experiences in the Minnesota music scene, and why sometimes the best part of playing music is simply having fun doing it! 🚨 Subscribe to the Minnesota Music Note and keep discovering the artists, stories, and music that make Minnesota special. If you're part of the Minnesota music scene—or know someone with a story worth sharing—we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to us and let's shine a spotlight on the artists, bands, venues, and creators that make Minnesota music special. The Minnesota Music Note is always looking for the next great guest! Resources: PodcastCrew website: podcastcrew.online The MN Music Note FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/minnesotamusicnote/ Email: william@podcastcrew.online