Gospel blues from a southern girl moonlighting as a New York singer/songwriter.

11 MP3 Songs
BLUES: Piano Blues, SPIRITUAL: Southern Gospel

Details:
Okay, so Britt's no son of a preacher man. That's because she's the daughter of one. And you know what they say about preacher's kids. Or do you?

Britt Nealâs introduction to the power of those black and white keys was a weekly lesson at the local church. While the distractions of youth led Britt to away from studying piano, she would eventually come to appreciate those skills she learned as a child.

The journey so far has certainly been a winding road. To the backdrop of world travels and a wide array of passions and interests, the musicâs draw eventually could not be denied. As a volunteer in shelters, prisons and hospice facilities Britt was called on to tap into those skills of making music she once knew. While studying political science in college, Britt also co-founded a womenâs a cappella choir to share music in places that needed it most.

Being involved in music again sparked an old flame that had never died. With experiences to share and music in her heart Britt began to explore songwriting while she pursued a career in the non-profit world. In Australia Britt earned a Masters degree in ethnomusicology, trying to academically articulate the influence music has in politics and society, while she pondered the influence it had within her own heart and soul.

The journey continued when Britt found herself back on a small South Carolina sea island where she began jamming with the band in a local bar. It was here she became aware of the power she had in her sultry but smooth voice. For two years she played late into the night with that band just because nobody could bring themselves to stop. The power of music truly began to work its way on her.

Gaining performing confidence, Britt began to branch out on her own and play solo gigs, becoming a mainstay in other local restaurants and bars. Her soothing voice and mellow sound was well received and Britt knew that this curious interest of hers was quickly moving towards a passion.

Now in New York City, Britt has begun writing with a new vigor and performing for a new audience. Her warm, soulful voice envelopes each song, while conveying a heartfelt energy that stirs the soul. âI cannot deny the country, blues and gospel roots that are part of who I am and surface in my music, but my life experience has been about exploration⦠from West Africa to Australia to the American South; and so my songs will always be a type of living travel journal.â

In her best known song, âKeep Moving Onâ, Britt takes listeners on that journey with a dash of humor and a lot of heart through a soulful description of unfulfilled expectations to a soaring chorus of personal resolution and strength. The idyllic âI Dreamed of Youâ floats the listener into a peaceful state of mind, while the bouncing âLast Chanceâ drives straight ahead with a message of inspiration and purpose.

Brittâs voice and piano playing range from the satiny soft to the gritty and awe-inspiring, yet always with that warm honesty to communicate lifeâs raw experiences and emotions. Itâs the beauty and richness of this ever-winding road that Britt Neal aims to share, and fervently invites you to come along.

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