When Merrily was 13 she showed up at the rehearsal of Patrinel Wright’s “Total Experience Gospel Choir.” She was completely overcome by the raw, organic energy of the music and begged to be a part of the group. It was an odd sight…a tiny white kid singing with the all black gospel choir in a stomping Pentecostal Church, but Merrily was in heaven. It was through this group that Merrily discovered her absolute joy of soul and blues music. She would come home after school and blast old-school hits through the house on her parents’ record player. She was swept away by the ardor of Aretha and the spirit of Stevie. She was mentored by musicians such as Micheal Shrieve (former Santana drummer), Ernestine Andersson, and Sue Ennis (songwriter for “Heart”). She soon became well known in the Seattle community and went on to compete on the national television series “Showtime at the Apollo,” and local series "Gimme the Mike Seattle,” where she tied for first place out of 600 people. She also sang back-up for Bobby McFerrin, was showcased in “Moore Music at the Moore,” and was selected multiple times for national anthem performances at NBA and WNBA games. Merrily currently studies music business and songwriting on a 4-year scholarship at Berklee College of Music. She has been selected to solo in the most competitive shows at Berklee such as “Singer’s Showcase” (Selling out the 1,200 seat Berklee Performance Center). She has also performed with Rocco Prestia, and Phillip Bailey (Earth, Wind, & Fire). Her band has played with touring bands such as “Big Sam’s Funky Nation,” (Lettuce, Dirty Dozen Brass Band), as well as being chosen to perform at the grand opening of Google’s new offices in Boston.