If there’s one thing musician Lo Marie isn’t afraid of, it’s change.
Whether she’s stepping into a heavier rock sound with Madison’s newest band, touring the country playing the challenging music of Frank Zappa, performing with one of the Midwest’s most beloved tribute bands, or helping a first-time student discover their musical voice, she embraces every opportunity to grow.
“I don’t think anybody wants to be the same thing forever,” she explains.
That mindset is fueling one of the busiest chapters of her career.
Listen to the complete interview with Lo Marie here:
New Project Provides a Refreshing Challenge
First, her newest adventure is Lonelyproof. It’s a Madison-based original alt-rock band built around singer, songwriter, and guitarist Kyle Rightley’s collection of songs that had been waiting years for the right home.
“He had this collection of music that never really fit with any of his other bands because it was too rock-and-roll heavy,” Lo Marie said. “So, he gathered some of the people he already plays with and started this new project.”
For Lo Marie, the band offers something refreshingly different. She’s getting the opportunity to spend more time leaning into her role as a guitar player, while still sharing some vocal duties.
“Kyle sings most of the lead because they’re his songs,” she said. “That lets me really step into the guitar player role, and I’ve been having so much fun with that.”
Adding to an Already Packed Musical Calendar
Lo Marie has also become a regular member of Steely Dane, one of the Midwest’s premier Steely Dan tribute bands. And while she’s officially been with the group for a little more than a year, she’s been filling in with them for nearly a decade.
“It’s been a really fun addition,” she said. “We’ve been traveling more throughout the region, and it’s great music to perform.”
She also continues touring with The Furious Bongos, an internationally recognized Frank Zappa tribute group whose technically demanding performances push every member of the band.
“It’s incredibly challenging music,” she said. “When you’re finally able to achieve it together, it’s really rewarding.”
The band heads back on the road this fall with another milestone: its first sleeper tour bus.
“I’m excited and terrified,” she laughed.
Some Special Moments Off the Stage
Lo Marie also earned two special honors in 2026. She was voted “People’s Choice: Best Teacher” at the Madison Area Music Association (MAMA) Awards Show and Fundraiser. She was also honored with “Best Music Educator” by the Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) at its statewide celebration. Lo Marie considers these awards as being even more meaningful because many of the votes came from her own students.
“It really feels like they’re enjoying their lessons and getting something meaningful out of them,” she said. “Music is becoming a bigger part of their lives.”
Her private lesson students range in age from 11 to adulthood. And every single one comes to her for different reasons. Some dream of studying music professionally. Others simply want a creative outlet after work. The variety is exactly what keeps her energized.
“This spring I had 40 students,” she said. “People ask if I’m exhausted, but honestly, I usually come home energized because I get that reciprocal energy from watching people have those light bulb moments.”
Those moments also extend to programs like Girls Rock Camp and Ladies Rock Camp, where she helps new musicians discover confidence alongside technical skills.
“I just really love it,” Lo Marie shares.
But even with multiple bands, a full teaching schedule, and regular touring, Lo Marie is already looking ahead.
A Personal Evolution
She’s quietly beginning work on her next original album, with plans to record in Los Angeles alongside members of The Furious Bongos. It includes former Frank Zappa drummer Chad Wackerman, whose new studio will host the project.
“It’s a loose timeline,” she explained. “I’ve got about six songs together, and I’m hoping for around twelve.”
Her original music continues to reflect the influences she’s gathered along the way.
“I still consider it R&B-based,” she said. “But you can definitely hear some of the Steely Dan and Frank Zappa influences finding their way into it. It still sounds like me. It just sounds like the evolution of me.”
A willingness to evolve may be the thread connecting every part of Lo Marie’s career right now. One night, you’ll find her delivering intricate progressive rock to packed theaters. Next, she’s helping a beginner play their first chords. Somewhere in between, she’s writing new songs that blend soul, funk, jazz, and rock into something entirely her own.
No matter the role, her goal remains the same. Keep creating and keep sharing the joy of music with everyone willing to listen and to learn.
Find Lo Marie’s upcoming shows listed here.
