Lisa Mann: Blues Artist on a Mission

June 30, 2025

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Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Lisa Mann

Two-time Blues Music Award-winning artist Lisa Mann brings her powerhouse talent straight from the blues-rich scene of Portland, Oregon. Originally hailing from West Virginia, Mann’s vocal style seamlessly blends southern warmth with a dynamic edge cultivated from mastering genres ranging from hard rock to rhythm and blues. Her songwriting showcases clever, gritty, and often humorous Americana and blues narratives, skillfully matched by her exceptional prowess on bass guitar. Her grooves deliver the undeniable solidity reminiscent of iconic rhythm sections like Muscle Shoals’ Swampers or Motown’s Funk Brothers.

Drawing inspiration from legendary blues artists like Etta James and Koko Taylor, acclaimed singer-songwriters such as Bonnie Raitt, and powerful R&B vocalists including Little Milton, Lisa crafts original songs that resonate with authenticity and depth. Her lyrics vividly capture the complexities of life, love, and the often-challenging reality of the music industry.

In addition to leading her dynamic band, Lisa has shared the stage with renowned Northwest artists like the late Paul Delay, Lloyd Jones, Kevin Selfe, Ben Rice, Karen Lovely, and Sonny “Smokin'” Hess. Her collaborations also extend to national blues icons, including Sugaray Rayford, Johnny Rawls, and Annika Chambers. Mann regularly lends her exceptional bass playing and musical direction to Sonny Hess’ NW Women’s Rhythm and Blues Revue, a beloved feature at major festivals like the Waterfront Blues Fest and Musicians for the Cure’s annual cancer charity event.

Beyond performance, Lisa is deeply committed to mentorship. She serves as a Musician Mentor with United By Music North America (ubmna.org), an organization dedicated to empowering neuro-diverse and differently-abled performers.

Lisa’s versatile vocal talent can be heard on Canadian blues musician Bill Johnson’s Juno Award-nominated album, “Still Blue,” as well as the soundtrack of the 2019 film, “Woodstock or Bust.” She has also contributed vocals and bass to the acclaimed symphonic rock project Cry for Eden and explored traditional metal under her pseudonym White Crone with the album “The Poisoner.” Currently, Lisa is the lead vocalist for Portland’s prominent traditional metal band, Splintered Throne.