I grew up in Midland, Mich., and have been performing musically since the age of 11. As the youngest of five children, I was exposed to a wide variety of music at an early age. I looked up to my siblings and spent a lot of time listening to their cassette tapes or wearing their favorite band t-shirts in hopes of someday becoming as cool to them as they had always been to me.
My oldest brothers liked Bon Jovi and Metallica, my sister loved 80s hair bands, and my other brother listened to rap. Because my siblings introduced me to so many different types of artists, I learned to truly appreciate music for what it is and not by the genre in which it’s classified.
Over time, I acquired my own music collection and did my best to sing along with my favorite artists. Initially, my voice was never very good. However, I was determined to become a singer and dedicated myself to practicing extremely hard until my voice improved.
In fifth grade, my best friend got a karaoke machine for Christmas. I was so excited that I spent my entire Christmas break at her house singing Whitney Houston and Carpenters hits until the wee hours of the morning.
A few months later, my mother enrolled me in professional voice lessons and offered to sign me up for just about every talent competition that came through the state. My parents embraced my talent and did everything they could help me develop my singing career.
In high school, I became an official cantar at my church and performed as a session vocalist for a local recording studio (Guitar Sound Studio). I was featured in Dow High School’s Renaissance Fair talent show four years in a row, and I performed lead roles in three plays and two musicals.
I attended college between 2001 and 2005 and spent the majority of my free time songwriting, going to open mic nights or searching for opportunities to perform. I joined my first band at 19 and performed multi-genre cover songs at venues throughout mid-Michigan. I also performed in an acoustic duo with friend/songwriter Dave Kellan.
In December 2005, I graduated from college and moved to Chicago a few months later. Since then, I've met a lot of great musicians and performed with three bands; Mack's Creek Band, SWT and Lucky Town (current). Currently, I'm actively seeking opportunities to collaborate with songwriters and work with more bands/acoustic acts in the western suburbs.
Thanks to my family and friends for supporting my music and providing me with such tremendous support and encouragement. I appreciate all of you and wish everyone a happy 2009!
Amy C.
