1. Your debut album is out now. What can people who have never heard your music expect to hear from it when they hit play?

As soon as they hit play they can expect an upbeat modern country song with a rock edge. I wanted to start the album off with something edgy and with lot’s of energy so the listener would want more. I would also say that this song has a really cool story that you can really visualize as you listen to the words. Following that the listener can expect other tunes full of stories about love, life, and heartbreak. Each song means something different to me and has my own unique sound put into it. Overall the listener can expect a modern sound mixed with pop, roots and rock influences throughout the album.

2. You had the opportunity to meet Cyril Rawson who became a mentor for you. What was Cyril able to teach you about the music industry, selecting songs, recording in Nashville, etc…?

Wow where do I begin? The biggest thing that comes to mind is that Cyril has taught me how to make a song my own and what it takes to be an individual in a business full of talent. He has helped me to further my talent by teaching me how to bring out my emotions and unique sound to every project I do. Not only that, but he was also able to teach me about the technical sides of recording and writing. There is a lot more involved in the process then what meets the eye. I don’t think Cyril’s work in done with me yet, he continues to be a great mentor and friend of mine at the same time.

3. Cyril also produced the album. What did he bring into the studio with him that helped you to find your sound the most?

Cyril has years of experience which he brought to the studio with him. He knows about all aspects of an album and what it takes to create an amazing sound. He came well prepared and made sure I was well prepared because it was my first time in a studio so everything went smoothly. Cyril is a detail guy and that really shined through.

4. The first single from the album, “Nobody’s Watchin,” attracted a fair amount of attention from radio. Were you expecting the program directors and listeners to jump at the song the way they did and why do you think they did?

The success of the release would be a combination of timing, commercially friendly to radio, a collaboration of successful writers and musicians, planned promotion and something new and unique that stood out at that time. In my opinion, I think all of those things are the reason why I got the success I did!

5. You followed- that up with your second single this past January, “More of That.” What can you tell people about this song?

The song “More of That” is a fun, upbeat song that everyone can relate to. The lyrics are catchy and simple to follow making it one of those songs that just stick in your head. It was written by Cyril Rawson and Daryl Burgess and for me it’s about the innocence of first love and how you can’t get enough of it. You just want “more of that.” Again as a result of all of the other factors I was really excited to see that it got even more station adds then the first one. As an artist that’s what you really want for a follow up single!

6. Why did you feel it was the perfect follow-up to “Nobody’s Watchin’?”

Well, it was released off of the momentum of my first single and I wanted to follow up with a similar sound so audiences would remember me. I felt both songs complimented each other nicely because they’re upbeat and playful songs about new love. 

I’m actually getting ready to release my third single to radio now. It gives off a slightly different sound and side of my music and I feel is one of the strongest off my album. I hope it will do even better then the first two!!

7. Which one song from the album is your personal favorite and why?

Hmm… that’s a tough one. I actually don’t have one personal favorite off of the album. I chose each song for the album based on experiences in my life that I could relate to in each song. I feel that every song on my album is my favorite…that’s why I chose them! 

8. Have any record labels started to spark an interest in signing you? If so are there any that you can talk about?

There has been some interest in a couple of labels that I have passed on for various reasons. I feel right now I have a strong team behind me and want to establish myself further and grow as an independent artist before approaching labels that I have an interest in. I feel it’s important to be able to offer them as much as possible before approaching them. This will be to their advantage as well as mine.

9. What one thing would a label have to offer before you’d be willing to sign with them?

I would look very closely at any long-term development issues that may affect the momentum of my career.

10. What piece of advice can you offer to someone that is looking to break into the music industry?

I believe there are three main things every artist should know. Number One: Be prepared for A LOT of work. This is not an easy industry! Another main one is to surround yourself with people you trust and who have your main interest at heart. Also, learn from the artists that your respect but above all just be yourself because it will come through in your music!