While I believe that you now reside in Pennsylvania, your roots are from West Virginia. Why did you move to PA? I accepted the deal and found that I loved playing in Philadelphia’s punk and folk music.
Your music would be described in a few words.
It’s a hard question to answer, as I think that all my songs can be considered unique. First, I am storyteller. What interests me is the story and the emotion behind the song. The music itself is grounded in rock but has a retro touch. It includes elements of progressive, psychedelic and folk music, as well funk and soul. Because my tastes vary, I have included a bit of each.
Who are some musical inspirations of yours?
Fleetwood Mac and Brian Wilson (The Beach Boys), The Mamas and The Papas and The Carpenters, The Mamas and The Papas and The Carpenters, The Cure and Amy Winehouse are just some of the artists.
What was it like participating in NBC’s American Song Contest.
It was a great experience. I was fortunate to be paired with a great team of musicians who brought my song to life. I was very much challenged and learned a lot both about performing and myself. I met many talented artists from the same industry. I was able to see things clearly. It made me realize how hard work can be combined with luck.
What’s your songwriting process like?
Every time my process is different. Sometimes I start with a melody, while other times I start off with a more lyrical idea. All the best songs start with a feeling of needing to express something. I was a singer because I could actually write songs. That’s why I chose to be a singer. It was my escape when I was a kid. I would either go to my room alone or in the woods, and play my guitar. This is how songs are written. This is my favorite way of writing lyrics. Once I have a story/lyric that I like, I take it to someone musically I trust. I then ask them to help make it more appealing to me sonically. This is how my songs come to life.