New Artist Spotlight - Megan Mullins

New Artist Spotlight: Megan Mullins

By Peter Cronin

Indiana native Megan Mullins began studying violin at 18 months, using the Suzuki method. At 3 years old she won the Indiana State Fair Showmanship Award at the State Fiddle Championship performing "Rocky Top." Soon after, Mullins and her brother Marcus were performing together, eventually appearing on the Grand Ole Opry.

Mullins became Concert Master in the Fort Wayne Youth Symphony at 10 and won the Ohio Grand Champion Fiddle contest the same year. She followed up the next year with a win at the Young Artist Classical Competition in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Mullins has performed at fairs, festivals, coffee houses, pubs, churches and the CMA Music Festival. She also studied dance and gymnastics and graduated early from high school at age 15.

Proficient on violin, mandolin, guitar, piano, bass, clarinet, and accordion, today Mullins is part of the Nashville Star house band. She's toured with Catherine Britt and Sherrie Austin playing fiddle and contributing background vocals, as well as appearing in Austin's videos, "Streets of Heaven" and "Drivin' Into the Sun."

Mullins, who signed with Broken Bow Records and who cites Patsy Cline, Alison Krauss and Dolly Parton as musical influences, has released her first single, "Ain't What It Used To Be," written by Tony Martin and Mark Nesler. Grammy winner Randy Scruggs produced the project, set for release in July.

IN HER OWN WORDS:

Which song would you secretly like to cover?

"It wouldn't be a secret if I told you!"

What CD is on your stereo right now?

"I have a Ryan Adams CD in my stereo."

What is your pet peeve?

"I don't have a pet peeve, but I do have a pet dog, Maxie."

Do you have a lucky charm?

"Cross necklaces from my parents."

Which mode of transportation do you prefer - planes, trains or automobiles?

"Tour Buses!"

What actor would portray you in a biopic about your life?