Many on the northshore know Carolyn as the energetic choral director at Ponchatoula High School, or perhaps as the past-seven-years choral director at Fontainebleau High or as founder of the “Higher Call Music Ministry.” But many more will soon know her as a successful contemporary Christian recording artist. Her single “Unworthy,” from her debut, self-titled CD recorded in Nashville last year, recently was released to more than 1,000 radio stations across the country and is climbing its way up the charts. Carolyn resides in Ponchatoula with her children, Michael, 10, and Rebekah, 6, who are budding musicians focused on the violin, piano and voice.
What musical acts had a big influence on you as a young person?
I grew up in the church, and started playing in church services when I was 7! Hymns had a big influence on my life, but then, as a young teenager, I discovered contemporary Christian music and fell in love with the Christian rock group Petra. I also followed Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith heavily.
How would you describe your sound?
Well, it depends on what song; each is different. People tell me I sound like a cross between Norah Jones and Sara Groves mixed with Kelly Clarkson and Cheryl Crow.
How do your students influence your work in the recording industry?
Music is extremely powerful and sometimes controversial. Often teens will understand a message through music more than if adults tell it to them a thousand times. I considered my overall sound with [my students] in mind. I know not every teenager will like my music, but I wanted the sound [to] draw many teens to it. I am finding out that even though most of my ministry is for women, teenagers are loving it!
How does it feel to know that companies like iTunes, Verizon Wireless, and Sony all have your songs available to the public?
Well, I got my first royalty check for a whopping $2.02 the other day and was so excited! It’s satisfying knowing that songs that took so many hours to create and had so many musicians who worked on them are actually being heard by people. The messages in each song are very powerful, and I’m excited that they’re finally getting out after many obstacles!
What have been your favorite northshore venues?
I’ve performed for various organizations like the Restoration House, churches and festivals, but my favorites are the concerts I’ve done with Chick-fil-A in the Hammond Square Mall. Before and after those concerts I’ve had the opportunity to talk to the audience, each time building new relationships.
You made it to the second round in the Gospel Dream Vocal Competition at the House of Blues last year. What was that like?
That competition is like the Christian version of American Idol! For me, it was a memorable experience because I auditioned two days before Katrina hit. I auditioned and then had to wait several hours before the first-round results were released. I drove all over New Orleans, kind of killing time. Little did I know that I was seeing the city for my last time as we knew it then. I was selected to go to the second round auditions the next day, but with everyone evacuating, I couldn’t get to the southshore. Maybe the next time they come to New Orleans for auditions, there won’t be a hurricane coming for the city!
Carolyn will be signing copies of her CD November 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Barnes and Noble in Mandeville. Check out www.carolynrussell.org for an updated listing of her upcoming performances.
