He lives in Lafayette with his wife and two young children and is a regular Thursday night performer at Benny’s Bar in New Ulm, located in the NU Franklin Building, 126 North Minnesota Street, where he also works as a cook. 

Blue’s style blends traditional and contemporary influences. He performs a variety of music, incorporating guitar, harmonica, stomp box and tambourine in his sets. 

His repertoire balances familiar tunes with experimental elements, keeping each performance fresh.

“I’ve been trying out some new pedals, a Blooper station and a new stomp box,” Blue said. “We’ll see how it goes. I’m still experimenting with how they change the sound. It’s a way to keep my sets evolving and interesting.”

Tristan Blue performs during his regular Thursday night set at Benny’s Bar in New Ulm, Minn., appearing momentarily lost in the song.

Preparation for his performances is deliberate.

“I practice, and then I practice some more,” he said.

On Thursday night, Blue sang a mix of classic tunes and crowd favorites, including CCR’s “Looking Out My Back Door,” “What Have They Done to My Song?” (made famous by Melanie), “Jack of Diamonds” and “Galway Girl.”

He said “Sinnerman” by Nina Simone is a song he loves performing, reflecting its special significance to him. 

He blends familiar songs with experimental elements and his own musical style.

Although his Thursday performances are relatively new as a scheduled regular, Blue has noticed a consistent and enthusiastic audience. 

“This is actually my fourth time playing here,” he said. “I’m surprised by how many people come out to enjoy the music and have a good time.”

Audience members have taken notice of his energy and dedication. 

Mark Spencer, who attended one of Blue’s shows, described the experience: “Good music, good food, good drinks and good people.”

While the focus of his performances is music, Blue said, “I actually work here, so when I’m not playing music, I’m making pizzas and hanging out here. So this is my spot. We’ve got wood-fired artisan pizza with a lot of choices. Pig in the Garden is very popular, chicken bacon bruschetta is very popular, everything’s delicious.”

Blue’s work reflects a broader commitment to local music and community engagement. 

“We’re trying to make this a real spot for live music,” he said. “A place for local musicians and bands to play and for the community to come together.”

Over more than 10 years performing in southern Minnesota, Blue has become known for his versatility, often playing pubs and small venues, blending original sound with crowd favorites. 

His long experience allows him to adapt to different audiences and settings, bringing energy and musical skill to each performance.

Blue also appears on Off the Shelves, a music series produced by New Ulm Community Access Television and filmed at the former Bookshelves & Coffeecups in New Ulm.

His performance is available on the New Ulm Community Access Television YouTube page, giving fans a chance to see him outside of his bar performances.

Blue continues to perform every Thursday night at Benny’s Bar, experimenting with sound, engaging the audience and connecting with the local music community.

Fans can follow Blue on his official website, tristanblue.com, to keep up with his music and upcoming performances.