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Jason Michael Carroll
Guest Artist
Jason Michael Carroll doesn't look like he sounds -and that intrigue only heightens both realities of the tangy vocalist from North Carolina. After all, to hear him is to hear a straight-up, no-frills country singer who works a groove like a mule team, a melody like a barrel racer going for time, and a tear jerker with the dignity of Sunday grace. Carroll's debut album Waitin' in the Country went No. 1 in its first week of release, powered by his first hit singles-"Alyssa Lies" and "Livin' Our Love Song." It was enough to earn Carroll the distinction of Billboard's 2007 top new country artist honors.
Born in North Carolina to a preacher, the youngster spent years not being allowed to listen to "secular music." No rock, no pop, no country-and other than the occasional moment stolen in a friend's parents' car on the way somewhere-Carroll's musicality came in a rush when he began working in a motor shop.
While the likable country boy did it as much for his mama as anything, his participation proved fortuitous. Not only did he win the Raleigh/Durham market, but the visibility began to open doors leading to producer Don Gehman. In a matter of days, there was a deal on the table with Arista Nashville.
Whether it's the poignancy of "Alyssa Lies," the blow-up-the-weekend revelry of "Honky Tonk Friends," or the sweeping desire of "Lookin' at You," Carroll finds his voice in any kind of song - just so long as it's country.
Latest CD
Growing Up Is Getting Old