Natasha Neely, Owensboro native and Nashville newcomer, is performing with “the possum,” George Jones, on March 1 at the Executive Inn. Tickets start at $42 – call 926-8000 for more information. Read further as Natasha dishes on Goldie, sweet tea and Mr. Jones.


Natasha1.jpgN4U: For people who aren't familiar with you, where are you from and what kind of music do you sing?

NN: I was born and raised in Owensboro, KY. I lived there until moving to Nashville in 2005 to pursue a music career and to earn a degree in music business from Belmont University. I have grown up on a country show and have been singing country music all my life.

 

How did you get into the music business?

The experiences of performing on Goldie’s stage have made me who I am today. Being a part of Goldie’s cast is the sole factor that led me to the music business and has caused me to want to stay. Because of my participation in an open mic night and becoming instantly hooked, I have been motivated to continue on that same path in the music business until God leads me otherwise.

 

Who has been your biggest influence?

My family has been a HUGE influence to me. My mom sang to me from the time I was born, although she does not consider herself a singer. She’s always the one to tell me, “you did great,” even when no one else thought so. My dad has done everything imaginable to help me in the music business. I tell him he could be the light guy, the sound engineer, my wardrobe stylist (he’s a good shopper), my manager, my production manager, my business manager (he’s that already), and any other job, but I know for sure that I want him to be the bus driver. (Tour bus, that is.) Anytime I need advice or guidance I come to him. My grandparents have also been there to support me every step of the way. They have been my constant moral support and encouragers. I have my “Pepaw” to thank for the gazillions of pictures he has taken for me! Goldie Payne has influenced me to be who I am today. She is my second mom. As the owner of the country music show that in which I was a part, she taught me everything I know about performing and working the crowds. It was Goldie who encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and be a true performer. Goldie has even taught me how to tease my hair, paint on the bright red lipstick, and glue on the false eyelashes, too! I love her for that.

 

What does the song "Sweet Life" mean to you?

“The Sweet Life” was actually the first original song ever that I chose to record. I ended up recording it in Nashville for my first demo project, but I also did a recording with my band members from home, which is really special to me. When Byron Gallimore pitched it to me, I knew I had to have it. I love the sweetness of the song, all the sweet things in life that it mentions: a cold drink, rain fallin’ in the hot summertime, blackberries ripen, a southern moon, a Sunday drive to nowhere special, birds singing, and two people in a love divine, just crazy in love for each other. I can just picture those things when I hear and sing this song. Plus, it mentions the blue moon of Kentucky, which reminds me of home!  

 

Cowboy boots or a really cute pair of strappy sandals? --be honest now

I’ll be honest; I absolutely LOVE cowboy boots, especially the REAL ones from the western stores that I can’t afford, with the cool colors and designs. I love a cute summery dress with a pair of good ‘ole cowboy boots, however, if I had to choose between the two, I would say that I prefer a cute pair of strappy heels! I love wearing heals because I’m short and they give me confidence. I would rather perform in a pair of high heels anytime! I feel like I’m in charge when I’m on stage and I’ve got my heels on!

 

 Are you nervous/excited about performing with George? What kind of music are you going to be performing for the fans?

I am super excited to be opening for “The Possum” Mr. George Jones, himself! He is a legend, and to have the opportunity to open for him is a dream come true! I am going to be performing some good ‘ole true country cover songs while mixing in some of my recorded originals. If the fans are there to see George, they are there to hear some REAL country music, and of course, that’s the best kind.  If anyone wants to give George a call, tell him that I would be willing to sing a George and Tammy duet with him, but he’ll have to pay me extra for that.

 

What would you like to say to all your Owensboro fans out there?

To my Owensboro family and friends: you have been amazingly supportive all these years. I can never truly express how much that means to me. I try, but I can’t seem to find enough ways to thank you. With each and every face, each and every conversation, I have been blessed! Owensboro is full of wonderful people who support and care about each other; I can testify to that! I am very proud to say that I am from Owensboro, Kentucky! I love you all!

 

Got more questions for Natasha or want to comment on this or other articles? Vist news4uonline.com to read the rest of this story and www.myspace.com/natashaneely.com to hear some of her latest tunes.