Andrea Emmes

Artist Information

Biography

Winner of the 2008 LA Music Awards Contemporary Christian Artist of the Year, Andrea Emmes had everything going for her: she was singing nightly on the Las Vegas strip as one-third of the popular all-girl group “GG Girls” and still making it out to LA to work as a studio singer; previously she had performed as “Ariel” at Disneyworld, and numerous film, TV and Voice Over jobs (Xbox, Pizza Hut, Skype to name a few) .” However, this success was not meant to last.

In 2006, Andrea was involved in an accident and sprained an ankle. She was diagnosed with RSD, a pain disorder that causes the body’s nerves to misfire and send a deluge of pain signals throughout the body. Suddenly—after a seemingly innocent injury—Andrea went from singing seven nights a week, to constant, crippling pain: at times even unable to walk. As a result, Andrea was forced to slow down—and reconsider everything about herself: personally, professionally and spiritually. Andrea, who was raised in the church, found herself once again turning to the Lord. She began soul-searching—and finding herself waking up at 2 or 3 AM (often with inspiration for new songs.) It was at this point that Andrea realized she needed to stop singing for herself, and begin singing for the Lord. And from that moment on, everything else fell into place…


Andrea began writing constantly, revisiting a poem she had written in college, “Father.” She submitted the track to a small radio station in Arkansas, who began giving it some airplay. That was all the motivation she needed: reinvigorated by her connection with the Lord, Andrea set off on writing a full album and truly pursuing her dream of becoming a recording artist. She teamed up with some amazing musicians—including Richard Smith, Maia Rodriguez and Chris Mendez—all “beautiful and amazing talents” according to Emmes. And with their support, Andrea’s music began garnering serious attention.


Even over the airwaves (or internet), Andrea’s music reaches people on both a universal and intimate level. When she sings, “You’re beautifully broken, perfectly made; With all that you’re given, how can you complain? For I know His purpose, is given to you; With words from His Spirit, Who resides in you?” it sums up her experience—and reaches something we can all relate to. And this glorious message is made all the more convincing by her wonderful voice. It has a beautiful, lyrical soprano quality—but sounds equally good digging in on flat-out rockers; outwardly warm, it also has an edgy undercurrent that hints at some of the tribulations she has been through.


Andrea released her debut CD titled, "I’m On My Way", and is currently writing her second album, hopefully to be released before Christmas. Besides touring locally promoting "I’m On My Way", she works very closely with many wonderful charitible organizations such as 3 Points of Light, The RSD Foundation, Giving Children Hope, The Women's Transitional Center, ITS, Beadiful Sisters as well as enjoys working with the G.E.T. U.P. Youth Group as their musical director.


Although things might not have turned out exactly as Andrea Emmes had planned, the events of her life have opened up other doors. As Andrea states, “Because of this challenge, my greatest dream is coming true: I have been able to use my gifts for God’s purpose.” As listeners, we’re just glad that we are along for this wonderful, inspiring ride—and we’ll be with her as she’s on her way.


Andrea’s prayer: “That the music moves you, inspires you, touches you, makes you think, smile or even cry, but above all…changes you.”

Instrumentation

Andrea Emmes-Vocals
Hunter Ackerman--Guitar

Discography

Father
You Are
Don't Cry
Amazing Grace
Lost
Beautifully Broken
I'm On My Way
Meet Me Here
Although You're Gone
Here I Am
I Don't Wanna
Thank You


All these tracks are currently playing on either Internet radio stations or local radio stations in Arkansas, Massachusetts, Trinadad, Germany and England.

Official Website

http://www.andreaemmes.com

Links

• Official Website
• MySpace
• Buy CDs Now!
• 3 Points of Light
• Walking With Hope Festival

Audio

• Father
  Listen  
• Don't Cry
  Listen  
• Amazing Grace
  Listen  
• You Are
  Listen  
• Lost
  Listen  
• Beautifully Broken
  Listen  
• I'm On My Way
  Listen  
• Although You're Gone
  Listen  
• Meet Me Here
  Listen  
• I Don't Wanna
  Listen  
• Thank You
  Listen  

Lyrics

• Father
• Don't Cry
• Amazing Grace
• You Are
• Lost
• Beautifully Broken
• I'm On My Way
• Although You're Gone
• Meet Me Here
• I Don't Wanna
• Thank You
• Walking with Hope

Video

Andrea Emmes @ Spirit West Coast Festival--"Beautifully Broken"

Photo Gallery

Press

• Andrea Emmes ReviewYou.com CD Review [+ Show ]
  

  Andrea Emmes I’m On My Way (Aselah) Andrea Emmes’ story is another powerful one...Andrea Emmes
  
  I’m On My Way (Aselah)
  
  
  
  Andrea Emmes’ story is another powerful one of a talented, beautiful person whose life is going uphill and then life happens and starts a mudslide. This is the story of many God-loving Christians who have never forgotten Him along life’s road but were given a brazen reminder as they slid down the hill pushing Him back into the forefront of their minds. It is a story that never grows dull because it is a joy to hear the uplifting triumph of the soul at the bottom of the muddy hill get up and start the ascent once again.
  
  
  
  Emmes is all ready a seasoned stage performer but now her own heartfelt words are exquisitely sung with passion instead of a rehashing of some other composer’s pop or cabaret tune. The two biographical ballads “Beautifully Broken” and “I’m On My Way” are excellent. Both of these gems hold mass appeal but at the same time touch each individual listener with their reverent honesty.
  
  
  
  Not wanting to just deliver an album of slow adult contemporary standards, Emmes showcases her vocal diversity with the rock anthem “Lost.” Reminiscent of Rebecca St. James with her powerful mid-range, smooth lower register and occasional girly squeak at the end of phrases, this fun tune is heavily guitar driven but could use more drums to pump up the backbeat. Another great power pop tune, albeit a little slower, is “You Are.” Emmes pulls out all the stops with falsetto jumps and a whole step modulation for extra dramatic emphasis as she belts out the chorus: ‘Cuz You are Holy / You are wonderful / You are Father / King of Kings / Cuz You are Jesus / You are my true God / You are Mighty / God, You’re everything.’
  
  
  
  Emmes range is a gentle mezzo-soprano that is easy on the ears but can also pack a punch. She holds back when appropriate but can also control it and deliver during a more heavy-handed tune. Because of this, the stark instrumentation on “Meet Me Here” works with its quirky keyboard and Emmes’ lilting vocal stylings with appropriate vibrato. However “Don’t Cry” could use more production. Emmes melody and vocal delivery could stand out much more than just what an acoustic guitar has to offer.
  
  
  
  The track that holds the most subdued energy is “Thank You.” This soulful, gospel number slowly builds up the excitement levels in anticipation of an explosion of praise – which never comes. But in a way, it works because the listener is left yearning for more. In a live setting no doubt this anthem could go on for thirty minutes with Emmes leading the shouting and hand clapping in a triumphant victory over life’s setbacks thanks to our heavenly Father.
  
  
  
  All ready garnering radio play on select Christian stations, time will hopefully bless Emmes as she continues her climb up on the hill and reaches more listeners with her inspirational story and music. She knows all too well that God controls her steps and she is “on her way.”
  
  
  
  -Kelly O’Neil
  
  (from ReviewYou.com)

• OC Register Album Review [+ Show ]
  

  Thursday, March 27, 2008 Orange Pop: Local acts release a spring bounty of new albums... … Andre...Thursday, March 27, 2008
  Orange Pop: Local acts release a spring bounty of new albums...
  
  … Andrea Emmes "I'm On My Way"(Aselah Productions) – Armed with songs centered on her Christian faith, Buena Park-based Andrea Emmes has crafted a heartfelt debut.
  The 11-song "I'm On My Way" has enough room for '80s styled rock ("Lost"), R&B-tinged ballads ("Father"), folk ("Don't Cry") and authentic blues ("Thank You"). Emmes has a wealth of experience in the entertainment industry (including stints singing at Disneyworld and as a production assistant on the TV show "Making the Band: O-Town"), but has found a decidedly more personal niche with "I'm On My Way" thanks to uplifting songs that showcase her effective vocals.
  Information: www.myspace.com/andreaemmes.com
  You might like if you enjoy: Amy Grant, Natalie Grant.
  

• KPJN 101.1 Catholic Radio [+ Show ]
  

  What a poetic metabolism and passion Andrea brings to the lyrics of her songs and what beautiful m... What a poetic metabolism and passion Andrea brings to the lyrics of her songs and what beautiful music she makes to delight and inspire the heart!
  Andrea envelopes her message in a unique style all her own, making the listener an intimate part of her spiritual journey. She makes my heart smile at times when she sings. On other occasions, she brings tears as she both praises and requests help from God for the living of this Christian life here on earth.
  Most of all, through Andrea's music, I sense the community of Christian love. It is a personal
  pilgrimage, but we are all companions on the way with each other and with our Lord Jesus Christ.
  Thanks, Andrea, for reminding us of what is truly important in this life--faith, hope,love. And the greatest of these is love.
  

• CD Reviewer [+ Show ]
  

  The CD Reviewer By Senior Writer C.W. Ross Artist: Andrea Emmes Title: I’m On My Way Websit...The CD Reviewer
  
  By Senior Writer C.W. Ross
  
  Artist: Andrea Emmes
  Title: I’m On My Way
  Website: http://www.andreaemmes.com
  MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/andreaemmes
  CDBaby: http://cdbaby.com/cd/andreaemmes
  Style: Contemporary
  Rating: 8.75 out of 10
  
  To get a true feel for Andrea Emmes’ music you have to know a little bit about her background. Andrea has lead a very interesting life, by the young age of 13 she had already written 35 songs. She was published by the time she was 18. Her 1994 poem “Lord Hear My Prayer” became her first recording, “Father”.
  
  
  
  Andrea’s performed as a headliner on the Vegas strip, worked as a studio singer on the west coast, and performed as ‘Ariel’ at Disneyworld and Universal Studios singing as, ‘The Bride of Frankenstein.’
  
  
  
  Her life came to a crashing stop though in 2006 when she sprained an ankle. During treatment for that she was diagnosed with RSD. RSD is a pain disorder that causes the body’s nerves to misfire and send a deluge of pain signals throughout the body.
  
  
  
  Andrea has managed to make a positive out of it by really spending time with the God. She says that,”Because of this challenge, my greatest dream is coming true; I have been able to use my gifts for God’s purpose.”
  
  
  
  Andrea says that she is a lover of all music and all styles, but that her poetry and expression comes from the Lord, who is her main musical and life influence.
  
  
  
  She list her writing and musical style influences as, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Stephan Curtis Chapman, Take 6, Anointed, Out of Eden, Elvis, Jewel, Lisa Loeb, Alicia Keys, Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carey, Toby Mac, Rebecca St. James, Bebe and Cece Winan, Stevie Wonder, Christina Aguilera, Crystal Lewis, MaryMary, Babyface, Richard Marx, Lionel Ritchie, and Alanis Morisette.
  
  
  
  I’m On My Way is the debut release for Andrea Emmes. On it you will find 11 tracks of music that are straight from the heart. Andrea’s music reaches out to both the saved and unsaved with messages of hope, salvation, courage, and grace. The main point is that as long as we keep God first in our life in the end things will work out.
  
  
  
  Andrea has high-pitched vocals that have an almost a childlike wonderment aspect to them. Her CD Baby page describes her music as, “A cross between Amy Grant and the Little Mermaid.”
  
  
  
  Andrea has also surrounded herself with several fine musicians on I’m On My Way including, Richard Smith, Maia Rodriguez and Chris Mendez.
  
  
  
  My favorite song picks are, “Lost,” a rocking number with edgy guitar work, the very touching melodic, “Beautifully Broken,” and the last track, “Thank You,” a praise and worship song that features a nice light rock meets jazz arrangement.
  
  I’m On My Way is a very well done release that should put Andrea Emmes on a lot of people’s music radar screens.

• Music News [+ Show ]
  

  Andrea’s songs reflect her deep sense of willingness and total commitment to Christ and His Truth an...Andrea’s songs reflect her deep sense of willingness and total commitment to Christ and His Truth and her understanding of how he has affected her life. Andrea is a truly blessed and gifted Artist in today’s Christian Music Arena.

• "Her True Calling" in Skope Magazine Nov/Dec Issue 2007 [+ Show ]
  

  When Andrea Emmes' mom was pregnant she would place headphones over her belly and play music for t...
  When Andrea Emmes' mom was pregnant she would place headphones over her belly and play music for the soon to be born little girl. Months later Emmes came into the world cooing. As soon as she could speak, she was singing.
  
  Even though Emmes loved to sing, she also loved to act. "As a performer you like to do anything and everything that can get you going." she says. So the workaholic started her life heading in multiple directions.
  
  She appeared in movies, popped up on Broadway, and even worked in Las Vegas with a group that covered the pop ditties of everyone from Aretha Franklin to Pink. Suddenly a sprained ankle turned into more, and Emmes was forced to take a deep breath. Diagnosed with RSD, she suffered from a condition that caused her nerves to misfire, sending out floods of pain.
  
  What may have seemed to many a career ending misfortune actually started Emmes' serious investment in the music industry. She slowed down, revisited a song she had written as a teen, and focused herself on music.
  
  Now Emmes' who has since found a healthy Internet following, is about to release an album independently. Titled "Meet Me Here, I'll Never Make It Halfway". the singer/songwriter's religious music deals with life, her experiences and her need for God.
  
  And even although Emmes loves almost every kind of music, she is inspired by the personal connection she feels with God while creating her music. "I connect more emotionally and feel like I can just pour out song after song when I'm singing with God's message," she explains.
  
  God's message is what is most important to Emmes, and she sings with a simple motto. "If my music teaches one person and helps them relate to what I'm talking about or helps them with their life, then what I do is all worthwhile."

• Abundant Life Assembly of God [+ Show ]
  

  Andrea's music relates her desire in expressing her heart in a way of putting it into music. Tho...Andrea's music relates her desire in expressing her heart in a way of putting it into music. Those who know her understand the meaning behind the melody put into lyrics that has depth and feeling. It moves the hearts of those that are closet to her.

• Amazon.com Review [+ Show ]
  

  Very seldom have I felt the urge to review a CD online, but I was so compelled by the music of Andre...Very seldom have I felt the urge to review a CD online, but I was so compelled by the music of Andrea Emmes, that is was no longer a choice, but an absolute must.
  
  In a world of corporate popcorn that is shoved directly down our throats, Emmes is a welcome change reminding us that music is more than just music, it is emotion.
  
  It is specifically fitting that this is a spiritual album, since the vocals on the first song "Father", can only be described as angelic. With a fusion of a gospel chorus, the phrase "audible art" comes to mind. This is further emphasized by the inspirational lyrics of "Beautifully Broken" and the urgency & repetition of the message in "I Don't Wanna". Track 2, "Lost" reminds us of the fun female rockers of the 80's: Joan Jett, The GoGos, or The Bangles. Then she turns the album upside down by following the song up with a pure vocal concerto, "Don't Cry". No instruments to hide behind here; rather, it is only her and one acoustic guitar. Further illustrating her flexibility, she launches into an authentic blues song, "Meet Me Here". The brilliance of the meter breaks the rhythm time and time again. Meanwhile, Track 5, "I'm On My Way" shows off the levity of her voice against the deep tones of the piano. Further emphasizing this is track 8, "You Are" where she portrays a childlike innocence before its father. (Quite fitting for a spiritual album.)
  
  All and all, this is s fantastic album for not only fans of spiritual music, but also for fans of music. It is refreshing to listen to an entire album that focuses on the intangible qualities of music, and not on what will sell best to the Brittany Spears crowd. I highly recommend this and look forward to her future works.

• iTunes Review [+ Show ]
  

  Customer Review ITunes By Infinitemus Ms. Emmes displays a great depth of understanding and...Customer Review
  
  ITunes
  
  By Infinitemus
  
  Ms. Emmes displays a great depth of understanding and emotion through her music. Each selection is its own “story,” and yet they blend together to make a thoughtful, insightful and expressive whole. A wide range of both vocal performance and genre is found here…very simply “Intelligent music”. A heartfelt expression from an artist who uses a lyrical approach to define herself and describe her life. The listener is engaged by mental and emotional pictures that stay with you long after the CD has finished playing. You’ll find yourself humming along to your favorite songs throughout the day!

• Cross Rhythms CD Review [+ Show ]
  

  Cross Rhythms Review…www.crossrhythms.co.uk Reviewed by Tom Lennie Andrea was born in Hollywood... Cross Rhythms Review…www.crossrhythms.co.uk
  
  Reviewed by Tom Lennie
  Andrea was born in Hollywood (a little-known town in Florida!) and worked for a time singing with Walt Disney World MGM Studios/theme parks. Quickly developing a passion for writing, when aged just 13 she wrote over 35 songs. A move to LA launched her into a stint as a cover musician, touring the country, singing in casinos. This, Andrea’s debut record, ably showcases her gifting as a singer and songwriter - a diverse batch of interesting and pleasant tunes with thoughtful lyrics. The opening “Father” seeks Divine direction in raising a child. With the rock-thrust of the proceeding track, it’s clear that Ms Emmes’ music shuns easy classification. This is confirmed by further listening - quirky pop tunes, several hints of jazz/funk and smacks of inspirational. It’s especially on these latter, semi-acoustic piano-based numbers that the singer shows her vulnerability - as she openly expresses the love, joy and pain (”Beautifully Broken”) of life in general and the ups and downs of walking with the Lord in particular. Christ is unquestionably the central focus here, and a couple of tracks comprise pure heartfelt adoration. Ably produced and making use of creative instrumentation, this is a worthy debut.

Setlist

I start out with a greeting and introduction and the 1st part of my testimony (Before almost each song, I speak about the song and tie in scripture)

1) Meet Me Here
2) Lost

Second part of testimony having to do with my nerve disorder, RSD and how God has brought me through it.

4) Beautifully Broken
5) I'm On My Way
6) Pretty

Scripture and Third part of testimony

7) Walking with Hope
8) I Don't Wanna
9) Love Me Best


10) You Never Leave Me Hanging
11) You Are
12) Thank You

Closing

I can accommodate my show for your needs :)

MINIMUM SET 15 MINUTES, MAX 1 HOUR, which may include some covers from known praise and worship songs. (I.E.--"Awesome God", "Open the Eyes of My Heart Lord", "El Shaddai", etc)

SOLO OR ACOUSTIC SET:
15-30 minutes

FULL SET:
45-60 MINUTES

Basic Requirements

PDF Rider

Andrea Emmes Rider

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