New Artist Spotlight: Danielle Peck
By Edward Morris
© 2006 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.
When Danielle Peck likes a song, she sticks with it. Her parents say the first song she learned was Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues," which remains part of her live show today. Born in Jacksonville, N.C., Peck is the daughter of a U.S. Marine and spent her formative years in Coshocton, Ohio. Her mother's side of the family traveled and sang in churches. Her father's family played Country Music at local dances.
With music all around her, it's no surprise that Peck sat on the kitchen counter and pounded out the Cash song at 3 years old. Peck, who made labels for her own imaginary albums as a child, performed in church and joined a band at 16.
"We played weekends and hit the local summer fairs," she said. "While my friends were into sports, I was consumed with music."
When she graduated from high school, she hit the road leading her own band, working up to regional fairs and festivals. Shortly after, Peck moved to Nashville to pursue a reco rd deal. She met a publishing executive, which led to her first publishing contract. A chance meeting with music industry executive Scott Borchetta while working as a waitress prompted a late-night singing audition. Borchetta eventually established Big Machine Records, distributed by Universal Music Group, and signed her.
Peck wrote or co-wrote seven of the tracks on her self-titled debut album, which carries production credits by Byron Gallimore, Tommy Lee James and Jeremy Stover. The album, which was released as a digital download on March 14, is set for release in stores June 6 and includes the leadoff single, "I Don't," which Peck penned with Burton Collins and Clay Mills. Peck is the opening act for Toby Keith on his "Big Throwdown II" tour, which kicked off in January.
IN HER OWN WORDS:
Which song would you secretly like to cover?
"'I'll Stand by You' written by Chrissie Hynde, performed by The Pretenders."
What CD is on your stereo?
"Tammy Wynette's Greatest Hits."
What is your pet peeve?
"Slow drivers."
What moment in your life would you relive if you could?
"The first time I fell in love."
Do you have a lucky charm?
"A green amber necklace and bangle bracelet. I also make a wish at 11:11 AM and PM."
April 11, 2006
© Kristin Barlowe
