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Exclusive Interview with Jacqui Verellen

Jacqui Verellen

About Jacqui Verellen

  • Interview date: September 12, 2017

Why country music ?
~ Country music is in my blood! I’ve been singing down at the bay since I was 4 and writing since then as well. My parents always played country hits in the house and car, and so many of my relatives down the line have been fiddle, guitar, violin, banjo etc players or singers who loved folk and country. I think this is why I love it so deeply, its just in my heart.

If everything would be possible (waking the dead included), which two people should sing the ultimate country duet?
~ I think Alan Jackson and Alison Krause would be interesting to hear together as their voices both have these warm, yet opposing colours to them! I also would love to hear Shania Twain and Tim McGraw do a duo!

What song you ever recorded means the most to you and why?
~ Home is Home, my latest single I would say means the most! Its so much so about my family, it came to me so naturally through an outpour of emotion, and I think will forever be my best memory of the time I had my first big release. There is so much family and love in every word, and I know its going to be something I can share with my kids and so on!

Who would you like to write a song for you?
~ Lori Mckenna, or Hilary Lindsey – both have such an amazing way with melody, and they inspire me in my writing.

What is the one thing that readers/fans would be surprised to know about you?
~ That I originally trained in Opera! It seems a little opposing to then write my music in country, but opera I think taught me a lot about how to use my voice to the fullest and to transfer those skills into what I love writing!

Give us one country song you never want to hear on radio anymore and tell us why.
~ There are WAY too many songs with “Hey girl, climb up into the back of my truck, TRUCK, TRUCK, TRUCK.” I’m annoyed with how overused that is, and I also think men need to stop writing about girls wearing cut off shorts and write with more respect for the ladies of country! I also love Maddie and Tae’s song “Girl in a Country Song” because it basically spells out my opinion on this, and the video makes me die laughing! Its eye opening.

What is the question interviewers never seem to ask you and…you wish they would? (Please provide your answer as well.)
~ That is tough… hm. I don’t think I’ve ever had a question I felt was missing, most interviewers I’ve talked to have been thorough and professional! (Such as your fine self)

Describe the ultimate recording studio (not the technique but the facilities)
~ I think the imaginary, ultimate recording studio includes calming colours, maybe blues, incense, candles, dim lights, and comfy chairs. I wanna feel like I’m just in my room relaxing and singing. I think thats why I loved recording with Jeff, he set things up in his studio so comforting. I think all singers need that vibe to truly make magic!

Johnny or June ?
~ June! She was so humble and supportive next to Johnny and such a sassy lady of her time! I feel like when I watch videos of her I sense this good, good spirit about her. Also her deep brassy voice is too much fun!

Are you still nervous before going on stage and if so, do you use any “rituals” to calm you nerves.
~ I get nervous for sure, I try and remind myself to only worry about having fun and the rest will come with it. I certainly on more anxious days, take deep breaths and force my body to slow itself down well before I go on, this usually helps me start in a place of centre and concentration.

What was the most memorable day in your musical career and tell us why.
~ The most memorable day would be my first country contest. I remember my mom doing the actions and mouthing the words from the audience because I was so little I could hardly remember! The reason it was also so memorable is because my sweet Aunt Debbie told me if I was brave enough to do it, she’d give me 30 whole dollars! She purposely made sure it was all the gold dollar coins, and I was ecstatic when I saw them. I thought I was rich! I had the best first singing experience and day with my family.

Jacqui Verellen Country Singer

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