New Artist Spotlight: Joey Martin
By Gary Voorhies
© 2006 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.
Joey Martin grew up in Alexandria, Ind., a small farming and factory town. One of five children, Martin gained a love of music from her parents.
Her first performance was in first grade at a talent show, where she sang Dolly Parton's "Coat Of Many Colors" as her dad played guitar. She continued to perform as she grew up.
Martin developed a love of horses and worked as an assistant to a veterinarian after she graduated from high school. Meanwhile, she played shows around her hometown. Soon, she moved to a small farm south of Nashville to continue her work with horses. Over time, she began to split time between duties on the farm and songwriter nights in Nashville.
Martin, who cites Patty Loveless, Dolly Parton and George Strait as musical influences, signed to Giantslayer Records in 2005. Her debut album, Strong Enough To Cry, was released in January and was produced by her husband, Rory Feek and Bill McDermott. She co-wrote three songs on the CD, including the debut single, "That's Important To Me," which she penned with Feek and Tim Johnson.
IN HER OWN WORDS:
What books are on your nightstand?
"The Living Bible and This Country Life by Samuel Ogden. I grew up on a small farm raising sheep, geese and horses and love living in the country and all it has to offer."
What do you sing in the shower?
"I usually don't. That's my time to plan my day and think of all that needs to be accomplished."
What word or phrase do you find yourself saying over and over again?
"If it's meant to be, it will happen. If not, it's not God's plan for me."
What moment in your life would you relive if you could?
"The period of time between 5 and 10 years old. I have such fond memories of singing with my mom and dad."
When they look back on your life in 50 years, what do you hope people say about you?
"I would hope that I had left a positive mark in this world as someone who dreamed big, accomplished big and compromised little."
Who is your musical hero?
"Dolly Parton."
What CD is on your stereo right now?
"Patty Loveless' new album, Dreamin' My Dreams."
What is your pet peeve?
"Tardiness and other people fidgeting."
Do you have a lucky charm?
"No. I don't think of being lucky . I see it as being blessed."
Which mode of transportation do you prefer - planes, trains or automobiles?
"Dually trucks."
Who is your dream duet partner?
"Dolly."
On the Web: www.joeymartin.com
March 21, 2006
© R.L. Feek
