TEMPA'S STORY
Tempa is a passionate and soulful singer-songwriter whose powerful voice and poignant lyrics have been captivating audiences for over 30 years. Born in Florida in the late 1960s, Tempa spent her early years in West Virginia with her step-grandparents, immersed in the sounds of Bluegrass, Gospel, and Country music. Her musical journey began early, inspired by her uncle, who toured with Ralph Stanley, and her grandmother’s encouragement after hearing Tempa sing at just four years old.
Returning to Florida at age five, Tempa faced a challenging childhood, growing up in a small coastal town with limited resources. Despite these hardships, she found solace in music and nature, often escaping into the woods to sing and perfect songs like “Yesterday” and “Somewhere Over The Rainbow.” Her love for music became a means of self-expression and healing, a theme that would define her artistic path.
Tempa’s talent continued to blossom through her school years. At seven, she won a Bible chapter competition by turning the text into song, performing it live on the radio. Her natural ability to transform personal experiences into music became a cornerstone of her style. However, life wasn’t always easy. As the eldest of five siblings, Tempa often took on adult responsibilities, caring for her younger brothers and sisters while her mother worked long hours. These experiences built her resilience and shaped her as both an artist and a person.
In her late twenties, Tempa was diagnosed with Lupus, a chronic illness that has presented ongoing challenges. Despite the physical pain and limitations, she has channeled her struggles into her music, using songwriting as a tool for healing and personal growth. This journey of perseverance and strength has deeply influenced her lyrical content, imbuing her music with authenticity and raw emotion.
One of the most profound losses in Tempa’s life was the death of her eldest son, Sethan. This devastating event has been a source of deep grief, leading to some of her most heartfelt songs, such as 'Remember' from the album Embers Fire and 'The Story Of You.' These songs are a testament to her ability to turn personal pain into powerful, transformative art.
Tempa’s professional career took off in Colorado, where she formed the award-winning blues band Tempa & The Tantrums. Known for her dynamic stage presence and powerful voice, she shared the stage with legends like BB King, Mavis Staples, Koko Taylor, Tab Benoit, Jimmy Thackery, Bernard Allison, Luther Allison, Lonnie Brooks, and Jeff Beck. Tempa’s searing, soulful voice spans genres from Blues and Soul to Jazz and Zydeco, captivating audiences wherever she performs. From iconic venues like Red Rocks to performing on the shores of the historic Sea of Galilee, Tempa has always delivered unforgettable musical experiences that resonate deeply with audiences.
In 2012, Tempa moved to Maui, where she and Naor founded Soul Kitchen Maui, an 11-piece Zydeco-Soul band that quickly became a staple in the local music community. Their vibrant performances earned them MauiTime’s “Best of Maui 2017’s Best Band,” and their debut album, Live At Charley’s, was released in 2019.
Today, Tempa continues to inspire with her unique blend of SoulFolk, Americana, and Blues. Together with Naor, she is crafting their second original album, MoonFall, which delves deeper into themes of transformation, resilience, and healing. Through her music, Tempa offers not just entertainment, but a space for reflection, connection, and emotional release. Her journey, marked by love, loss, and the enduring power of song, makes her a compelling and transformative artist.