After years of traveling and playing the nightclub and casino circuit, Tara Lynn knew it was time to take the next step in her musical career.  As fate would have it, the opportunity to appear on a string of Statler Brothers dates coincided with that choice.  On the strength of her performances on those shows, she was asked to join the Statler Brothers tour, and performed with them until they retired in October, 2002.

Born in Morristown, New Jersey, Tara Lynn spent her childhood on both coasts of the U.S.  Her father's job allowed the family to see the country, and finally settled them in Grovespring, Missouri, a tiny town east of Springfield, MO.

Tara participated in everything musical that was available at school.  She has played the flute since the age of 10, receiving many top awards and maintaining the top position with the band through high school.  Her vocal capabilities were recognized early and earned her many top district and state awards at various music festivals.  Tara also kept busy performing with the Pom-Pon Girls dance squad as captain and choreographer.

Following high school, Tara Lynn attended the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music on scholarship, where she primarily studied classical vocal performance under the guidance of renowned tenor for the Metropolitan Opera, the late, John Alexander.  Other areas of her study included Music Theory, Piano Technique, and Dance.  While living in Cincinnati, Tara performed with the gospel trio, Youth In Service, "we performed in local churches and area music festivals.  It was Patricia, Chrissy and me.  Patricia also played piano. Three-part harmony on beautiful gospel songs.  What great memories!"

While Tara Lynn appreciated the education she was receiving in Cincinnati, her heart was in Country Music.  She felt like Branson, MO would be the place to go to get a start in the country music business, so it seemed like the logical destination.

Tara Lynn moved back to her roots, ready to take Branson by storm when she took her place as lead singer, keyboard player and front person for the band Midnight Rodeo.  Tara Lynn traveled the U.S., along with the various band members for six years, from coast to coast, and border to border making many friends and fans along the way.

In 1994, Midnight Rodeo took a short hiatus from the road to go into the studio and record the Top 10 Independent hit "On The Lonely Side Of Midnight."  Tara feels that the years spent on the road with Midnight Rodeo have been an education in itself, "I've been able to develop my own style, not just try to sound like someone else, and really figure out who I am and what my music sounds like.  My studio time is limited, and though I enjoy working in the studio, the live performance is what I love.  The excitement is connecting with the people."

In 1998, a chance to perform on three dates opening for the legendary Country Music group, The Statler Brothers, led to a permanent spot as their opening act for an unprecedented 5 seasons until the Statlers retired from the road in Oct. 2002. After only one performance she was asked to "hit the road" with them.  "I couldn't believe it when Marshall, their manager, stopped me right before I was heading to the stage for the second show, and asked what my schedule was like for the rest of the year.  I said 'Wide Open!' and it was then when I was asked to join them permanently.  It was one of the best moments of my life!" 

Tara received many standing ovations from the crowds on the road with the Statlers, which is very rare for any opening act. She especially remembers the first show with the Statlers in Hyannis, MA: "I couldn't believe my eyes when I sang the last note of 'Broken Wing' they all just stood right up. It was hard to keep it together!  The fans have always treated me so nice."   She really reached the Statlers' fans, and turned many of them into her own.

Tara shared that unique sound and excitement with many new fans while touring with the Statler Brothers.  During that time, she performed in front of crowds as large as 18,000.  In the five seasons with the Statlers, around 1,000,000 people have enjoyed Tara's voice.

Following the Statlers' retirement,  Tara co-owned and operated Boondocks Country Saloon & Dance Hall in Mt. Vernon, MO from 2003-2005.  There, along with the managerial duties, Tara was the DJ, and she sang with the bands, and sang commonly requested songs such as "God Bless The USA."

In April/May, 2006, Tara portrayed Patsy Cline in the Springfield Little Theatre production of  "Always...Patsy Cline" which received critical acclaim.

Tara, as Patsy, with the "Jordinares"

Currently, Tara is performing with the BAD HABIT BAND regionally. Check the "Show Dates" page for dates. 

Some of Tara's hobbies include riding horses & mules, writing, the Internet, Jazzercise and dancing.  She also achieved a  black belt in Tae Kwon Do Karate at age 16.