Home Town: Post, Texas
Music Genres: Country and Gospel
Describe yourself as an artist: I want to make a difference with my music. I want it to be real, genuine and lasting.
What makes you unique as an artist: I have been told that I have a recognizable voice. I love music and I love people. I hope that comes through in my music. I don’t want to overshadow the song. I have learned through the years that it’s not about me, it’s about the song.
What instruments do you play? guitar
Tell us about yourself ( Personality, Principles): I would say at my best, I have a positive, happy personality. I try to live with a “can do” attitude and to be helpful to others. I believe one of the gifts the Lord has given me is to be an encourager. One of the “secrets to my success” is that I persevere. I also am thankful for my blessings and try to focus on them. Not to say there are not times I get down and struggle with negative thoughts, but I try to get back on track when I find myself going down that road. I have come to the realization that I am not in control of the universe so I pray a lot and ask for the Lord’s guidance.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music? Yes, I make wire-wrapped jewelry and I enjoy writing
What inspired you to start playing and performing music? I grew up in a radio family. The radio was always on in our home. I became a DJ after school at my parent’s radio station when I was 13 and I used to listen to all the music and dream of being a country music performer.
In your opinion, what makes a song great? When lyrics and melody collide and cause the listener to feel something. Whether that’s happy, sad, or excited, a great song will be remembered.
Do you write Music: Yes
If so describe your creative process in your songwriting: There are times that words come to me. I could be in the car driving and I will record into my phone. There are other times a melody will come to me. There is no rhyme or reason when or how it happens. I’m just glad when it does.
When did you first perform and what was it like? I was 14 and I performed in church. I was petrified.
Who are your influences? When I was young, I loved Crystal Gayle, Anne Murray and Karen Carpenter because of their smooth deliveries. I sang along to these artists as well as Janie Fricke, Reba McEntire, Judy Rodman, Lynn Anderson, Tanya Tucker and Patsy Cline, but I really enjoyed singing songs that were done by men so that I wouldn’t be compared to the female artists so much. I grew to love the writing of such artists as Merle Haggard, Jimmy Webb, Hank Williams and Dolly. I really listened to the words and the way they were put together.
What awards have you won for your music? AWA Pure Country Female Vocalist of the Year, Pure Country Song of the Year, CMA of Texas Artist of the Year, Country Duet of the Year, Gospel Album of the Year
What advice would you give someone that is trying to break into music? Be yourself and stay true to you and your music. Draw from those you respect in the business but don’t be a copycat. Authenticity is more important than trying to be popular. It has more staying power and you will be happier.
If you could meet anyone, living or otherwise, who would it be? I got to go to a Zig Ziglar seminar a few years before he passed. I would love to meet him and sit down and talk to him. I have been reading and listening to John Maxwell and I really like him. I would love to meet him and be able to sit down and converse with him in person. I would have loved to have met Elvis and even seen him in concert. I think he would be very interesting. I think it would be fascinating to meet and visit with Patsy Cline. I am reading Greenlight by Matthew McConaughey. His book is filled with incredible insight. It would be great to meet him and sit and visit with him in person. I just wish he would leave out the F bomb in his book. It is not necessary and it would be so much better without that word. Of course, one day I am looking forward to meeting Jesus, but I’m not rushing that. 😊
