Country Music Artist Jessie Chris’s roots are in Southborough, Massachusetts, but her boots are planted firmly in Nashville.
The 18 year old Jessie was one of the youngest performers at last year’s CMA Fest, and has just been chosen as one of four artists to perform at this year’s William Morris Showcase in Nashville.
Jessie has opened for such A-list acts as: Luke Bryan, Chris Young, John Rich, Billie Ray Cyrus, and Jeff Timmons of 98 degrees.
Her first album, Wildfire, was recorded at the legendary Dark Horse Studios in Nashville, who have recorded albums for Taylor Swift and Keith Urban.
I am grateful to have had the privilege of a one on one conversation with the upbeat, kid at heart, Jessie Chris. Her enthusiasm is contagious.
How did you get started creating music?
Jessie Chris: When I was 10, one of my younger brothers got a guitar for Christmas. He didn’t object to my playing with it. I loved it. I started with guitar lessons and have been playing ever since. I enjoy writing my own songs, which are really stories about my experiences, and of course, I love to sing.
You have a beautiful voice.
Jessie Chris: Thank you. I do get some vocal coaching.
Whose music inspires you?
Jesse Chris: I’m a big Keith Urban fan, and Rascal Flats. George Strait is the classic country artist I admire most.
Do you play any other instruments besides acoustic guitar?
Jessie Chris: I play some electric guitar and some piano, but I’ve recently taken up the 6 string banjo and it really suits my style. It’s got kind of a happy sound, but it’s more difficult than you might think.
I saw that you sang The Star Spangled Banner at Fenway Park. What was that like?
Jessie Chris: I was really nervous because, you know, it’s not an easy song to sing, and my friends and family were all there. It took courage, but it turned out great. It gave me a taste of what it would be like to sing at Gillette Stadium. That’s my dream venue to perform in, it’s where I’m from, and I’ve attended so many great concerts there.
What do you do to relax on the road?
Jessie Chris: You want to bring the best you’ve got to every audience, so it’s important to eat right, exercise and stay healthy. I enjoy boxing. It’s a great work out but it doesn’t feel like your exercising. Otherwise, I hit the motel gym for the exercise bike or treadmill. I also like to read, mostly Nicholas Sparks romance novels, and watch movies. I love Disney films, but scary movies are my favorite. That might be just an excuse to sleep with the lights on.
What was it like recording your first album, Wildfire?
Jessie Chris: Fantastic! I love recording and I love being in the studio. The feeling of having something you have written, something you have been so personally involved with, be recorded for other people to enjoy is the best.
I love your outfits. Who selects what you’ll wear to perform in?
Jessie Chris: I love, love, love clothes, but I’m not that great putting it all together. I have a friend that’s a stylist, and my cousin has great taste, she helps me out sometimes.
Has any particular artist encouraged you to keep pursuing your dream?
Jessie Chris: Yes. I have to say Billie Ray Cyrus. When I opened for him, he was really supportive and encouraging. He made me feel comfortable and confident, and he was very generous.
Thanks Jessie!
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