the Journey
The early Years
I have always been surrounded by music. My earliest childhood memories are of family gatherings where it seemed like everyone played an instrument. Gospel music may have been the first sound heard in the womb. And a good four-part harmony still moves my soul today.
It was the influence of this church music that initiated my desire to sing and, as often the case is, my introduction to the stage. My other early musical exposure was to classic rock. As a child of the 80’s the musical tastes of my parents from 60’s and 70’s also contributed to my own musical preference. Even in naming me, they drew from their musical taste referencing Sharalee Lucas, the contemporary Christian Artist.
The Discovery phase
I loved to sing, it allowed me to express my emotions. I was involved with choir in high school, but that experience pushed me to explore the uniqueness of my own voice. My musical influences were changing at this time with the vocal groups of the 90’s taking center stage. It was also around this time that I started to relate to the themes of country music and I decided I wanted to record a demo in that genre.
The next thing I knew, with the help of my parents, I was off to Nashville to record. These first four songs got a little attention and some radio play but I didn’t feel like I fit the genre. I decided to return to my roots, and record some Christian Contemporary music. This time I opted to work with Producer Michael Nowak from Saga Recording Studio in Vancouver, BC. This short album also received recognition and radio play at Christian Stations across the USA. But I still felt like something was missing.
the Songwriter
It was at this point that I decided I needed to be writing my own music. Being primarily a lyricist has its own set of struggles. While I had no problems creating a melody and writing lyrics, my lack of knowledge regarding music theory has lead me to work with some great producer/composers. My first full length album Postcards was written and produced with Norman Robidoux, a Canadian music veteran.
As I continued to explore my identity as an artist the one question that has always been a challenge to answer is “who do you sound like?” I have a sound that is uniquely me. But as I have trained my voice and found new musical influences (such as Toni Braxton, Anita Baker and Sade) I continue to hone my sound. 2016 was a big year of investing in my music career. After a trip to Toronto to record the single “Together Again” with Producer Mark Zubek, my husband Nathan decided it was time to set up our own home studio in an effort to be able to work on more collaborations.
This started the release of a series of singles which are featured on my home page. It was also at this time that I discovered sync licensing and took additional songwriting training on how to write music for film and TV. The series is my journey of self-discovery reflected by the nostalgia of music from a bygone era. I know there will be a song that will speak to nearly everyone in that series. Have a listen, if you like what you hear please let me know!
the Next project
2023 is the launch of new business model that will allow me to be in closer contact with my Lovelees! (what I call my fans, if you didn’t know.) You will be able to purchase all My Singles through my website and I’m excited about launching my merchandise shop. You will be able to purchase everything from a coffee cup to a hoodie all with my brand logo and even special limited release designs I create!
If you want to be added to my email list please send me your information through my contact page. I wont bombard your inbox with continual marketing but I do want to make you aware of new music and product releases and special offers to join my exclusive fan community!
