Payton Taylor

Artist Information

Biography

In the summer of 2012, Payton Taylor performed at several of the country's largest music festivals, such as Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the CMA (Country Music Association) Music Festival in Nashville, Tennessee. She has released her debut CD, entitled "Shine" and has opened for major artists, such as Casey James, Chuck Wicks, Collin Raye, Lorrie Morgan, Pam Tillis, and the legendary Charlie Daniels Band. But, despite these milestones in her career, the Southern New Jersey native still remembers singing since she was barely able to speak. Never one to shy away from a stage, Payton jumped at any opportunity to perform; church events, school plays, local festivals, and anywhere else that would let her get up and sing, all witnessed this tenacious little girl’s love of performing. But it wasn’t until the summer of 2009 that the then 12-year-old Payton discovered her true passion for singing – Country Music.

During a trip to Nashville, Tennessee in August 2009, Payton was invited to jump on stage at a local music venue and perform a couple of songs. “That’s when I knew I wanted to sing Country Music for the rest of my life,” says Taylor, “During that trip, I fell in love with Nashville – it’s music, history, and its culture.” Now, only three years later, Payton is making her mark in the industry with her energetic stage performances and her catchy songwriting, and creating a genuine buzz that is making fans stand up and take notice. She was a finalist for the 2011 Texaco Country Showdown, and has been gaining national attention through multiple TV appearances, newspaper and magazine interviews, and a strong social media presence through sites like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

At only 16 years of age, Payton has achieved a great deal in her blossoming career, but she’s not ready to rest on her laurels: “I know I have a lot to learn, and a lot of time to grow and mature as a singer, a songwriter, and an artist. I want to do whatever I can and take as much time as I need to achieve my dreams and make a career out of doing what I love.” She’s already planning her next CD project, which she hopes will feature more material she wrote herself, she has switched to homeschooling to accommodate her busy schedule on the road and in the studio, and is already taking some college courses to get a jump on her college education. The past few years have indeed been busy for Payton Taylor, but if the past is any indication of the future, there’s no telling what the next three years hold in store for this young talent.

Instrumentation

Joe Caliva - Guitars & Vocals
Lisa Caliva - Bass
Jon Galetti - guitars
Sam Palombo - Drums

Discography

"Shine" EP - Released August 6, 2011

Official Website

http://www.paytontaylor.com

Links

• Facebook
• Twitter
• YouTube

Audio

• If I Can't Have Tomorrow
  Listen  
• Love Don't Give Up On Me
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• Blue
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• Can't Trust The Weatherman
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• You're Gonna See Me Shine
  Listen  

Video

Highlights from CMA Fest 2012 Performance

Payton Taylor - Promotional Video

Photo Gallery

Press

• Daisy Rock Girl Guitars Welcomes Payton Taylor To Its Artist Roster [+ Show ]
  

  Daisy Rock Girl Guitars, the original girl guitar company, welcomes to its artist roster Payton Tayl...Daisy Rock Girl Guitars, the original girl guitar company, welcomes to its artist roster Payton Taylor, the country music singer-songwriter with a tenacious love of performing.
  
  As a Southern New Jersey native, Payton has been singing since she was barely able to speak. Never one to shy away from a stage, Payton jumped at any opportunity to perform; church events, school plays, local festivals, and anywhere else that would let her get up and sing. At 12-years-old, Payton discovered her true passion for singing and playing country music during a summer trip to Nashville, Tennessee, where she was invited to jump on stage at a local music venue and perform a couple of songs. "That's when I knew I wanted to sing Country Music for the rest of my life," says Taylor, "During that trip I fell in love with Nashville... its music, history, and its culture."
  
  
  Now, at 15-years-old, Payton has released a five-song EP produced entirely in Nashville. She was recently a finalist for the Texaco Country Showdown and has opened for multiple country stars, including Casey James, Chuck Wicks, Collin Raye, Lorrie Morgan, and Pam Tillis. She most recently opened for the legendary Charlie Daniels Band and has been gaining national attention through multiple TV appearances, newspaper and magazine interviews, and online music retailers. The title to her new CD is Shine, derived from the track "You're Gonna See Me Shine," which Taylor says represents "embarking on a journey and knowing that one day you'll achieve your dreams."
  
  "She sure makes you want to stick a flower in your hair, put on your best dress and go down to your local shindig and dance with your honey," says Tish Ciravolo, President and Founder of Daisy Rock Girl Guitars. "I imagine for this young girl with her voice beyond her years, this is what we will refer to as 'just the beginning' because she's got some crazy talent behind those soulful eyes. Welcome, Taylor, welcome & we're glad your family now and we're going to save a place for you for Sunday dinner!"
  
  She's currently planning her next CD project, which will feature more material she wrote herself. She keeps up with her homeschooling to accommodate her busy schedule on the road and in the studio, and is already taking some college courses to get a jump on her college education. It has indeed been a busy couple of years for Payton Taylor, but if the past is any indication of the future, the sky's the limit for this young talent.
  
  Learn more about Payton at Paytontaylor.com and become a fan on Facebook.
  
  Daisy Rock Girl Guitars offers a complete line of quality girl guitars designed to look and sound great, and to fit the female form. For more info, or to find a dealer near you, visit Daisyrock.com.

• Gloucester County's own twangin' Taylor [+ Show ]
  

  August 09, 2011|By Michael Vitez, Inquirer Staff Writer Collin Raye was running late. The country...August 09, 2011|By Michael Vitez, Inquirer Staff Writer
  
  Collin Raye was running late. The country music star's meet-and-greet was supposed to start at 7, but he hadn't even left his hotel.
  
  So Taylor Coccia, 14, did her best to fill in with the waiting fans. She sat at a table with her publicity photos arranged neatly in front of her.
  
  Her little sister, Taryn, 11, brought her a fresh Sharpie for autographs. "Now we're in business!" Taylor said.
  
  Her mother, Denise, took photos of Taylor posing with fans. Sometimes, Taylor posed with lips sealed, self-conscious about her braces. Other times, she smiled big and bright, such as when Angel and Brian Murnane of Atco told her they'd heard her songs on a program featuring up-and-coming stars.
  
  "Mom, they heard me on satellite radio!"
  
  Taylor's father, a Washington Township police officer, dressed in black to double as concert security. Even though 180 people attended Saturday night's show at Camden County College, he said, Collin Raye, with 15 number-one hits in the '90s, wanted order.
  
  Raye didn't know the meet-and-greet started so early, but Taylor's family didn’t realize this, and her father was annoyed he was late. Joe Coccia seized the teachable moment.
  
  "You ever become famous," he told his daughter, "you remember a guy like that. You don't act like that." (When Raye arrived, he greeted the fans warmly.)
  
  Arlene Iannacone, Taylor's grandmother, sold CDs for $5 at the door. "This is going to be my new job," she said proudly.
  
  As Taylor was being introduced, Denise Coccia, backstage, applied finishing touches to her daughter's makeup.
  
  "Mom, how do I look?"
  
  "Beautiful."
  
  Off to Nashville
  The family just bought a used RV - Taylor named it Dolly - and this month, Taylor, her mother, and her grandmother are heading down to Nashville.
  
  Taylor just finished eighth grade, but won't be attending Washington Township High School. She'll be home-schooled so she can spend more time in Nashville.
  
  As soon as her braces come off, in 18 months, she and her mother plan to move there, live in the RV, and find out if Taylor has the talent, looks, and fire to make it as a country music star.
  
  She has already adopted a stage name, Payton Taylor, in case she makes it big, to avoid any confusion with Taylor Swift.
  
  "I don't want to be known as the other Taylor," she said.
  
  Joe and Denise Coccia have been expecting everyone - school officials, friends, entertainment people - to tell them "stop, you're crazy, don't do it." But people encourage them. And Joe Coccia isn't going to stand in the way of his daughter's pursuing her dream. He remembers his passion to play major-league baseball, and his parents' encouragement. He played two seasons in the minors before being released. He has no regrets. He tried.
  
  These parents love seeing their daughter so motivated and happy, and believe that what she gains will outweigh anything she sacrifices by missing high school.
  
  There were wistful moments. "What about the prom?" her mother lamented.
  
  Their solution: Buy a prom dress and turn it into an outfit for a performance.
  
  Joe Caliva of Cherry Hill is Taylor's voice coach, accompanist, cowriter, and manager along this path to stardom. He is willing to move to Nashville and believes Taylor is "the total package." This isn't something she wants, he says, but something she needs, like air. And that's the attitude one must have. Nowadays, talent alone won't set you apart.
  
  If Taylor never makes it big or suffers heartbreak along the way, she'll still be young, with a world of memories behind her and her whole life in front of her.
  
  And she'll have plenty of material for a country music song.
  
  
  
  'Kick-butt country'
  "Hello everybody! I'm Payton Taylor, and it's great to be here tonight."
  
  She danced and stomped, mixing in a little yodel and twang. Her style is high energy - what she calls "kick-butt country" - and the crowd gave her support and approval. People clapped and cheered, even whistled. She performed eight songs - two her own - ending with "Folsom Prison Blues" by Johnny Cash.
  
  "She did a great job," said the fan from Atco. "She's got the music down. She's so pretty. Got to get the exposure now."
  
  Taylor Coccia a.k.a. Payton Taylor is a long way from being Taylor Swift, but the road to stardom has to begin somewhere. After the performance, her mother hugged her and Joe Caliva hugged her and two aunts hugged her and both grandmothers hugged her.
  
  "So many faces I'd never seen before," Taylor gushed. "It was so cool."
  
  On one song, "I felt like I was enjoying the song so much, I forgot the words. . . ."
  
  Still elated, she went to meet Collin Raye. (Sherry Lynn was performing next.) He was kind, complimentary, and helpful.
  
  "You sound wonderful," he told her. "You're the right age. That's what they want right now. You sound pretty confident. It's all about confidence."
  
  Keep writing, he told her.
  
  "Write and record and perform your own songs," he said. This was a lesson he had learned the hard way.
  
  "It really pays off on the back end because that's where the money is. And at the end of the day, people want to know what you're all about."
  
  At 14, Taylor is just beginning to understand what she's all about. But she believes her future is onstage, in cowboy boots. On Monday night, she sang the national anthem before the Camden Riversharks game. On Wednesday, she'll perform at the Salem County 4-H fair. And then it's on to Nashville.
  
  And who knows.

• Washington Township Teen Has New CD, Nashville In Her Sights [+ Show ]
  

  Though she originally had her heart set on singing Broadway-style tunes, it only took a moment on a ...Though she originally had her heart set on singing Broadway-style tunes, it only took a moment on a Nashville stage for 14-year-old Payton Taylor to realize her true love was country music.
  
  “I’ve been singing since I could speak, but I only started country two years ago,” said Payton, a Washington Township native who recently released her first CD, “Shine.”
  
  “We took our first trip to Nashville with the show choir, and I got on stage during open karaoke,” she said. “I sang a couple of songs and realized I really wanted to try country music. I love the style and the genre. I like how it’s so honest and easy to relate to. There’s a country song for any emotion you might have, and each song tells a story.”
  Payton’s manager and voice coach, Joe Caliva, said her voice and style are much better suited to country than Broadway.
  
  “It sort of fell into her lap, and it was a perfect fit,” said Caliva.
  Payton said her life can get a little crazy, with performances around the area as well as frequent trips to Nashville, so she has recently decided to be home-schooled.
  
  “We are visiting Nashville at least once a month, and we had to go once a week for the last few weeks,” she said. “I’m very lucky that my family and friends are very supportive. My mom flew to Nashville for 24 hours just to see me play in a big venue, and my family takes the 15-hour car rides with me and allows me to be home-schooled, even though it was a tough decision.”
  
  Caliva said Payton was very busy over the summer months — performing at local 4-H fairs, the New Jersey State Fair and other venues.
  
  “Now she’s concentrating more on increasing her presence down in Nashville, performing at popular venues where a lot of tourists visit,” said Caliva.
  
  Payton said her first CD — released in August — includes five songs, one of which she wrote herself. Caliva explained that, when Payton started her first project, she had just begun writing but that her next album would likely include more of her original songs.
  
  “I like to piece together stories and, from there, put the songs together,” said Payton. “I want to write songs people will relate to. Joe and I will get together some nights, and I’ll have some lyrics prepared and he’ll have his guitar. With my lyrics and his music composition skills, the song comes together in the middle somewhere.”
  
  Though she’s not in school, Payton said she’s still able to enjoy some teenage normalcy.
  
  “I’m definitely enjoying all the excitement, and I still see my friends from home every so often,” she said. “But I’m also around a lot of other artists my age so I still get a teenager life. Plus, I can discuss music with them because it’s something we all have in common.”
  
  Payton’s country idols include Loretta Lynn and Miranda Lambert, two “powerful, no-nonsense women.”
  
  “Loretta Lynn was so unpredictable for a woman of her time,” said Payton. “The stuff she said and wrote about was really surprising, and she shook up the industry. And Miranda Lambert was the artist who really introduced me to country music.”
  
  Payton said one of her biggest dreams is to sing at the Grand Ole Opry someday, maybe even beside one of her idols.
  
  “Right now I’m just taking everything as it comes,” she said. “I’d like to see my music go as far as it can, and I’m also learning about the business and finance end of things at the same time.”
  
  For other budding artists, Payton has some advice.
  “It’s definitely not easy, but if you have the drive and the support behind you, anything is possible,” she said. “Keep reaching for your goals and don’t get discouraged.”
  
  Payton Taylor’s next big performance is Nov. 26, when she will open for singers Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan at the Broadway Theatre of Pitman. Tickets are available online at www.thebroadwaytheatre.org or by phone at 856-384-8381.
  
  For more information about Payton, her CD and future performances, visit www.paytontaylor.com.

• Interview with 14 Year Old Country Star Payton Taylor [+ Show ]
  

  By Anthony Ragone From southern New Jersey to country-music-capital Nashville, teen singer Payton...By Anthony Ragone
  
  From southern New Jersey to country-music-capital Nashville, teen singer Payton Taylor has been anything but hesistant in her journey toward success in the country music industry. But, just like all other stars, she has her beginnings. Eversince she’s been a young girl, Payton’s been on stage, but it wasn’t until 2009 after a trip to Nashville, Tennessee that her life in the limelight truly unfolded. “I met my manager, Joe Caliva, during a vocal recital when I was only 11 years old,” Taylor explained. “After the recital, we began to work together and after the trip to Nashville, we switched our focus to Country Music.” It was only soon that Payton Taylor began climbing her ladder to fame.
  You’d think that a 14-year-old teenager would have a tough time adjusting to such a new lifestyle (14 hour drives to Nashville once a week, working all day and night, performance-packed schedule, missing out on time with friends), right? Not for Payton! She told TC that though her life “can get a little hectic” (understatement?), she “wouldn’t have it any other way.” It’s clear that Nashville hasn’t only helped Taylor’s career, but added to her maturity. School, too, has changed drastically for Payton. Being a public school student became too hard for Payton, so homeschooling has proved to be the best fit for Payton’s lifestyle, and when’s she’s on the road she atleast can enjoy schooling with her 15-year-old bassist, Lisa Caliva.
  She really is living the dream. From being interviewed on “Talk Philly” in Philadelphia with Ukee Washington to releasing her most recent album Shine, Payton Taylor is a monument to every girl’s dream of being a star. But, most of all, Payton thanks her fans for their continual support and reaches out to advise other artists trying to break into the industry. Payton answered honestly, “Perseverance is the key to the music industry. Rejection will rear its ugly head. Through it all, just don’t forget it’s all about the music and doing something you have a passion for. No dream is too small.”
  Check out our interview with Payton!
  TC: When did you first start making music? When did your career begin? When were you ‘discovered’?
  Payton: I first began making music when I was a little girl. I remember singing ever since I could speak. My career began after the summer of 2009 after a trip to Nashville Tennessee. Once I stepped into that town, I fell in love with the culture, people, and of course the music. I met my manager, Joe Caliva, during a vocal recital when I was only 11 years old. After the recital, we began to work together and after the trip to Nashville, we switched our focus to Country Music.
  What it’s like being a Nashville recording artist at the age of 14 –what has been the most gratifying experience of it all? How have your friends responded to your success?
  So much has happened in the past two years since I began singing. Although life can get a little hectic balancing school, music, friends, and family, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Meeting so many amazing people has been extremely gratifying. My fans have stood by me since day one and have always believed in me. Being able to meet fans across the country has been a thrilling experience and I feel so fortunate and grateful for their endless love and support. My friends have been supportive of my music since I first began. When I’m back home, they will come out to my shows with signs and t-shirts. Although I miss them greatly when I’m away touring, I’m always excited to see them upon my return home.
  
  How do you manage to balance your life as a student with your music career? Would you say it’s harder or easier being a student on the road, as compared to a student enrolled in a school?
  Schooling on the road has been an amazing experience! My bassist, 15-year-old Lisa Caliva, and I are both homeschooled together. On the way to Nashville, you can find us reading Shakespeare in the car, doing Geometry work, or speaking to each other in Spanish or French while learning foreign languages. I have found homeschooling to be pretty similar to regular public school – we still work everyday for 6 hours and we still school everyday. In addition to schooling on the road, I am also enrolled in college courses and the workload can seem extremely overwhelming, but, I love it! I confess, I am a bit of a “nerd” when it comes to school – I love learning and I am so happy homeschool gives me the ability to pursue my career, and still lets me have an excellent education!
  
  A lot of people say that country music has a unique charm to it that is unlike any other genre of music –do you agree, or disagree? What first attracted you to country music?
  I fell in love with country music because of its lyrics. The songs always tell a story and the lyrics can describe any emotion I’m feeling; they’re so down to earth and honest while being poetic at the same time. In the words of Sara Evan’s album, country music is “Three Chords and the Truth”. I think the lyrics in country music set it apart from any other genre of music today and that’s why I love songwriting.
  
  I’ve read countless articles written about you, and as I read one after another I became more and more curious about your rise to fame. Is it true that at one moment in your life you were just an ordinary Southern NJ resident and in the next you were a Nashville star?
  I am astonished with how much has happened in the past two years! Of course, leaving town to go to Nashville and recording my first CD, “Shine,” didn’t happen over night. My parents, family, friends, manager, and I have spent countless hours songwriting, homeschooling, and making the 14-hour drive to Nashville sometimes once a week. Everything that has happened would not have been possible without them. We are going one step, performance, and song at a time on this musical journey, and I hope one day all of my dreams will come true.
  
  You’re performing at the World Wide CMA Country Music Festival 2012 in Nashville –what did you do when you found out about this opportunity? How are you preparing? Are you excited?
  When I found out about the news, I was ecstatic! During the 2011 CMA festival, I had been “pounding the pavement” – singing on the street for tips in hopes to get noticed and to try and find a place to play. To be playing on a featured stage one year later is a dream come true! We are preparing thousands of t-shirts, post cards, and autographs to give away at the festival during my “meet and greet” sessions. In addition, I’m already beginning to pick out the songs I want to sing at the festival. Even though I have to wait until June for the big day, I am extremely excited already!
  
  We have to know –do you have Bieber fever?
  I admit, I have recently caught the “Bieber Fever”. I had always thought Justin was a talented artist since he first broke into the industry. However, while leaving the theater after seeing “Never Say Never” last March, I walked out with a newfound respect for Justin. He has an incredible story and he lives an incredible life. Sometimes, I feel like I can identify with Justin and his lifestyle, of course not the screaming girls, but I feel like being schooled on the road and trying to pursue what we love is something we have in common.
  
  Who are your favorite artists right now? Who are some artists you would like to work with in the future?
  The Band Perry, Eden’s Edge, Miranda Lambert, and Gretchen Wilson are my favorite artists currently. However, working with Leann Rimes would be a dream of mine. I love Leann’s music so much, I covered her song “Blue” on my CD, “Shine.”
  
  Where do you see yourself in the industry in 5 years?
  In 5 years, I see myself in Nashville, Tennessee, still making music. Hopefully, I will be touring with my band and doing what I love. I dream to sing at the “Grand Ole Opry” someday, and hopefully I will be able to accomplish that.
  
  What is your advice for up-and-coming music artists trying to break into the industry?
  Perseverance is the key to the music industry. Rejection will rear its ugly head. Through it all, just don’t forget it’s all about the music and doing something you have a passion for. No dream is too small.
  
  What does music mean to you?
  Music is a part of me. When I sing, I can feel the music everywhere. Throughout my life, I have found no greater joy than music and singing. I’ve been lucky enough to grow up around musicians my entire life. Throughout the years, their passion for music has inspired mine.
  
  We’ve received a bunch of emails from subscribers begging us to ask you this question –is Taylor Swift a true country singer? Just to clarify, what makes a singer a country singer?
  Of course Taylor Swift is a country singer! Some die-hard Country fans don’t like her because she has pop crossover appeal, but that doesn’t make her any less of a Country singer. Her lyrics are beautifully written in all of her albums. Her songs are about love, family, and life, the concepts upon which country music was born. Although she might not sound “Classic Country”, Taylor Swift is a great talent in the country music industry as a “pop-country” artist.
  
  For more information, please visit: www.payontaylor.com and make sure to find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/paytoncountry. Also, check out her album Shine available on iTunes!

• Payton Taylor - Appearance on WDSD 94.7, Newark, Delaware [+ Show ]
  

  "I can tell you, I did hear Taylor Swift when she was younger, [Payton Taylor] has a much stronger v..."I can tell you, I did hear Taylor Swift when she was younger, [Payton Taylor] has a much stronger voice!"

• Payton Taylor finding success with her debut album [+ Show ]
  

  By Katrina Grant Payton Taylor, a young country singer from Washington Township, is finding her w...By Katrina Grant
  
  Payton Taylor, a young country singer from Washington Township, is finding her way through the country music scene with the independent release of her first album.
  
  “I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember,” Taylor said. “I started singing country two years ago when I went to Nashville. I wanted to give it a shot, and I fell in love with it.”
  
  “She had been studying Broadway and theater,” Joe Caliva, Taylor’s manager said. “I was her vocal coach at the time, and I thought the country style would better fit her voice.”
  
  Taylor’s debut album was released this summer and was produced entirely in Nashville by Caliva, Taylor’s parents and people Caliva know in Nashville. The album has been receiving some positive feedback.
  
  “The album is doing really well, it’s gotten a lot of positive response,” Taylor said. “We’ve sold a lot of copies on iTunes and received positive feedback from people in Nashville.”
  
  “We did a lot of independent and grass roots marketing,” Caliva said. “We’ve had global responses. We have people downloading the album from Ireland, Indonesia and Canada. There’s been a lot of success independently promoting it.”
  
  For the album, Taylor and Caliva wanted to explore many styles to find the right songs.
  
  “This was an introduction to help me find my voice,” Taylor said.
  
  “We have some contemporary sounding songs on there, traditional country, Payton did the song “Blue” by Leann Rimes and she wrote songs herself as well,” Caliva said.
  
  Taylor counts Loretta Lynn as her number one influence and appreciates what Lynn did for women in country music.
  
  “She was an unpredictable female artist,” Taylor said. “She gave women a good name and shook up the industry and changed it for the better.”
  
  Even though, Taylor is still young and at the beginning of her career, if opportunity came for a record deal, it would be something that would be explored.
  
  “Yes definitely, but I have time to build, improve and grow,” Taylor said.
  
  “If someone came to us tomorrow, we’d have to look at that,” Caliva said. “Record companies have changed though, things have become more digital. Even big name artist are starting to go the independent route. “
  
  In addition to her new album, Taylor has performed in many venues and won various singing contests.
  
  “She performs regularly in the South Jersey and Nashville areas, where she just made her debut at the very popular Nashville venue, The Cadillac Ranch,” Caliva said in an email. “This past June, she won the local round of a national talent contest sponsored by the Chevron Corporation called the ‘Texaco Country Showdown’ – she moves on to the state round this October 29 at Hershey Park in PA. Payton was invited to open for Country superstar, Collin Raye, this past August, and has been invited to open for Country legends, Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan this November 26 at the Broadway Theatre in Pitman. She has also been featured on several radio stations in this area and was recently the featured artist on a weekly half-hour podcast produced by 1210 WPHT’s RJ McKay.”
  
  “Joe and my parents have been an amazing team,” Taylor said. “I’m so lucky to have them.”

• Payton Taylor - "Shine" [+ Show ]
  

  On Saturday, November 26th, two of Country Music’s biggest legends will be taking the stage at the B...On Saturday, November 26th, two of Country Music’s biggest legends will be taking the stage at the Broadway Theatre in Pitman – Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan. But there will be a 3rd performer on the bill – a bright, young, up-and-coming Country Singer from Gloucester County named Payton Taylor. The Washington Township resident is only 14 years old, but she is already well on her way to making her mark on the Country Music industry.
  
  “I’ve been singing since I learned how to speak,” says Taylor, “but, I didn’t start singing Country until I was about 12.” As a child, she would perform in school plays, church choirs, and local theatre, but during a trip to Nashville in the summer of 2009, the then 12-year-old Taylor was invited to sing a few songs on stage at a local venue.
  
  “That’s when I knew I wanted to sing Country Music for the rest of my life,” Taylor explains, “During that trip, I fell in love with Nashville – its music, history, and its culture.”
  
  Now, only two years later, Taylor just released her debut CD, produced entirely in Nashville, she was a recent finalist for the 2011 Texaco Country Showdown, and she was invited this past summer to open for Country superstar, Collin Raye.
  
  Her CD, entitled “Shine”, is receiving positive reviews on iTunes, and is attracting the attention of other media as well - Taylor recently appeared on CBS Philly’s daily program, “Talk Philly”, on local TV channel 3, where she got to meet and be interviewed by Ukee Washington. She also recently taped a segment for “The Shotgun Red Variety Show”, on national cable network RFD-TV. That show will air sometime in January.
  
  When asked why she chose to title her CD “Shine”, Taylor says, “I took the name from a track on the project called ‘You’re Gonna See Me Shine.’ I thought it would be a great title for my first CD, because the song is about embarking on a journey and knowing that one day you’ll achieve your dreams.”
  
  Taylor graduated from Chestnut Ridge Middle School in Sewell last spring, and would be attending Washington Township High School this fall, but she had to switch to Homeschooling to accommodate her busy tour and performance schedule here and in Nashville. She has already started taking some courses at Camden County College as well, to get a jump-start on her college education.
  
  Despite her ever-growing list of achievements, Taylor is not ready to rest on her laurels: “I know I have a lot to learn, and a lot of time to grow and mature as a singer, a songwriter, and an artist. I want to do whatever I can and take as much time as I need to achieve my dreams and make a career out of doing what I love.”
  
  And now Taylor is excited to be opening for two of her favorite Country Music artists, right here in her home state, and only a few minutes from where she lives and grew up. Taylor says, “I Love Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan, and I’ve been such a huge fan of their music. In the 90’s, Pam and Lorrie were opening doors for female artists long before Shania Twain.” Taylor also credits artists such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Kitty Wells as sources of inspiration for her and for all female Country singers.
  
  “I hope one day to have a career as great as theirs and with as much longevity,” Taylor says of her idols. “When I walk out on that stage on the 26th, I’m going to feel like an honorary member of their sisterhood.”
  
  For more information on the Pam Tillis/Lorrie Morgan concert, visit the Broadway Theatre of Pitman’s website: www.thebroadwaytheatre.org or call 856-384-8381. The show begins at 7:30PM and tickets range from $39 to $49.
  
  For more information on Payton Taylor, visit her website at www.paytontaylor.com.

• Gloucester County Singers Join Country Star to Benefit Mainstage [+ Show ]
  

  By Sean McCullen When Payton Taylor takes the stage at Camden County College's Dennis Flyer Memor...By Sean McCullen
  
  When Payton Taylor takes the stage at Camden County College's Dennis Flyer Memorial Theater next Saturday night, it will be a doubly special moment in the young musician's fledgling career.
  
  First, she'll be helping to raise money for the local production company that helped get her started on her budding music career—Blackwood-based Mainstage Center for the Arts.
  
  Second, she and fellow Gloucester County country singer and local favorite Sherry Lynn are tasked with warming the crowd up for country star Collin Raye.
  
  "I was very excited, because I haven't ever opened for someone as big as Collin Raye," the Washington Township resident responded when asked how she reacted to Mainstage's invitation to open for Raye. "So, I was really nervous, really excited, and I still am."
  
  Sherry Lynn is looking forward to the concert as well. (Click on the link to the right to see one of Lynn's videos.)
  
  But, as an eight-year veteran of the Nashville country music scene who's opened up for such stars as LeAnn Rimes and Crystal Gayle, the Clayton native is not quite as starstruck by Raye as is Taylor.
  
  Still, she's excited to meet Raye.
  
  "I do have most of his CDs," she said. "He was really big in the '90s, so I do know his music. I actually sing some of his songs, believe it or not. So, it's pretty exciting when you get to meet people you've actually followed."
  
  Taylor and Sherry Lynn are donating their time for the Aug. 6 concert, which will benefit Mainstage's children's programs.
  
  Raye made a name for himself on the country music scene in 1991 with the release of his debut album All I Can Be, which included his first No. 1 hit, "Love, Me." Other Raye hits include "In This Life" and "That's My Story."
  
  Taylor hopes to follow in the footsteps of Sherry Lynn and Raye. (Click on the link above to see a video of Taylor performing a cover of Carrie Underwood's Cowboy Casanova.)
  
  Her manager, Joe Caliva, strongly feels the 14-year-old girl is on the right track.
  
  Caliva, a veteran of the Nashville music scene, first met Taylor while he was doing voice coaching for Mainstage two years ago.
  
  "Her talent and her drive far exceeded any other student that I was working with," he recalled. "When the country music bug bit her, all the conditions were perfect. I had to get behind this girl and devote my career to her. It's been very exciting and well worth it."
  
  Sherry Lynn, who met Taylor during performances last summer at The Shoppes at Cross Keys and last fall at the Blackwood Pumpkin Festival, agrees Taylor has what it takes.
  
  "She's just getting better and better," she said.
  
  Tickets for the Aug. 6 benefit concert cost $25. For an extra $10, 50 lucky fans will be taken backstage before the concert for a meet-and-greet with Raye.
  
  For tickets or more information, call 856-227-3091 or visit the Mainstage website.

• Payton Taylor, Coutry Western Singer/Songwriter [+ Show ]
  

  My first assignment as the Lead Correspondent for MaxMoon Entertainment was to interview Country Wes...My first assignment as the Lead Correspondent for MaxMoon Entertainment was to interview Country Western singer and star, Payton Taylor. This was a particular honor for me as I am a fan of Payton’s music. Each song is an original variation from the last. My personal favorite If I Can’t Have Tomorrow with its catchy lyrics and cool beat, is a great fit for Payton’s incredible voice. This can be contrasted with her song Can’t Trust the Weatherman where a fiddle brings in the intro of the song and plays throughout the chorus. I got the opportunity to ask Payton which song is her favorite.
  
  I was thrilled to hear it was Love, Don’t Give Up because she wrote the song. I also learned that this was an accomplishment that Payton plans to pursue as a future goal. In an effort to become a better songwriter, Payton plans to write her next entire soundtrack in conjunction with co-writers. Judging from Love, Don’t Give Up, I’d say Payton is well on her way to accomplishing this goal. Payton is also working to master the guitar in order to become a well-rounded musician.
  
  Payton was discovered when she was eleven-years-old by her manager, Joe Caliva, who was working sound for a local show. Payton was singing What I Did for Love, a Broadway show tune, with as much passion and emotion as an adult. Joe was awestruck. “She had a stage presence,” said Joe. But it wasn’t until a trip to Nashville, TN in 2009 that Payton fell in love with the culture and history of Country music. When she sang her first Country song on stage via karaoke, she found a perfect fit.
  
  At fifteen-years-old, Payton Taylor has had to overcome some obstacles to her career, mainly her age. In a market where Justin Bieber, Miley Cirus, and a handful of Disney stars are wildly popular, Payton worries about becoming “gimmicky.” She is serious about her career and does not plan to be short term. Another obstacle that works against her is time. It’s not easy to balance family, school, and her career. In fact, Payton and I discussed her decision to finish her education by homeschooling. She does not consider school in itself a struggle because she loves learning and this new track will enable her to take college classes now, rather than having to wait. Her family has always been a strong support network for her, not only in her career, but in anything that Payton has ever decided to pursue. Payton went as far as to use the word “backbone.” When I asked Payton for advice for future musicians looking to break into the business, she brought up this “backbone” once again. Her advice is this: “Don’t give up. Be prepared to work hard. Make sure you have strong support.”
  
  You can find Payton’s music at www.reverbnation.com/paytontaylor.
  
  Thank you to Payton and her manager, Joe, for taking the time to talk to me, Angela Heather Hammond, Lead Correspondent for MaxMoon Entertainment Encore where “It’s the music that brings us together.”

• Musician Spotlight: Rising Singer/Songwriter Payton Taylor [+ Show ]
  

  Today, we bring you an all new Musician Spotlight featuring a talented, young, Singer from Nashville...Today, we bring you an all new Musician Spotlight featuring a talented, young, Singer from Nashville, Tennessee. The Singer is 15 year old Payton Taylor, who is an inspiring County Singer.
  
  In the summer of 2012, Payton Taylor performed at several of the country's largest music festivals, such as Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the CMA (Country Music Association) Music Festival in Nashville, Tennessee. She has released her debut CD, entitled "Shine" and has opened for major artists, such as Casey James, Chuck Wicks, Collin Raye, Lorrie Morgan, Pam Tillis, and the legendary Charlie Daniels Band. But, despite these milestones in her career, the Southern New Jersey native still remembers singing since she was barely able to speak. Never one to shy away from a stage, Payton jumped at any opportunity to perform; church events, school plays, local festivals, and anywhere else that would let her get up and sing, all witnessed this tenacious little girl’s love of performing. But it wasn't until the summer of 2009 that the then 12-year-old Payton discovered her true passion for singing – Country Music.
  
  During a trip to Nashville, Tennessee in August 2009, Payton was invited to jump on stage at a local music venue and perform a couple of songs. “That’s when I knew I wanted to sing Country Music for the rest of my life,” says Taylor, “During that trip, I fell in love with Nashville – it’s music, history, and its culture.” Now, only three years later, Payton is making her mark in the industry with her energetic stage performances and her catchy songwriting, and creating a genuine buzz that is making fans stand up and take notice. She was a finalist for the 2011 Texaco Country Showdown, and has been gaining national attention through multiple TV appearances, newspaper and magazine interviews, and a strong social media presence through sites like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
  
  At only 15 years of age, Payton has achieved a great deal in her blossoming career, but she’s not ready to rest on her laurels: “I know I have a lot to learn, and a lot of time to grow and mature as a singer, a songwriter, and an artist. I want to do whatever I can and take as much time as I need to achieve my dreams and make a career out of doing what I love.” She’s already planning her next CD project, which she hopes will feature more material she wrote herself, she has switched to homeschooling to accommodate her busy schedule on the road and in the studio, and is already taking some college courses to get a jump on her college education. The past few years have indeed been busy for Payton Taylor, but if the past is any indication of the future, there’s no telling what the next three years hold in store for this young talent.
  
  When did you start singing?
  I've honestly been singing for as long as I can remember. My first public performance was with my church choir at the age of six.
  
  Was it your dream to be a singer?
  Absolutely - When I was three, I knew every Britney Spears song, and I would put on shows in my house for my family. Shirley Temple was another idol.
  
  Tell us about your style of singing?
  I've had the benefit of performing different genres, from Showtunes, to Country, to Pop. I also have many different influences: Norah Jones, Bonnie Raitt, Leann Rimes, Karen Carpenter, Martina McBride, Alison Krauss (to name a few). I think all those influences comes together to form my style.
  
  Are there challenges pursuing a singing career?
  There's so many challenges, it's almost impossible to list them all, but I enjoy taking them on. Whenever I feel like I've hit a brick wall, I think about a quote by one of my favorite authors, Randy Pausch: "The brick walls are there for a reason. The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something."
  
  Do your parents and friends support you?
  My family is my biggest support team - they've given up so much to help me achieve my goals and dreams; I honestly couldn't do all this without them. I am truly blessed. And my firends couldn't be more supportive, from coming out to shows, to helping me promote my music, they're always there for me.
  
  
  Do you write your own songs?
  I do write my own songs. My writing partner is usually my manager, Joe Caliva, and I have been concentrating much more on my writing lately. On my last CD, I only got to include one song that I wrote myself On the project I'm recording now, all the tracks will be music I've written with Joe.
  
  If so, tell us what goes into writing a great song?
  I think the best songs are the ones with a great melody or "hook", great lyrics, and has a story that connects with people. As far as the "process" of writing a great song, I think it's important for writers to write what they know and find their own voice; don't worry about what's popular or what sounds "radio ready".
  
  Where was your first performance, were you excited?
  My first performance as a country artist was at a local school carnival. I was supposed to be performing on an outdoor stage, but right before the band and I were supposed to start, one of the worst rainstorms that I ever saw hit the area. But, they didn't cancel the show - we had a ton of people move everything into the gym and everyone stayed in there until the storm passed. The show went on and I had a captive audience, so everything worked out for the best.
  
  Where have you been able to perform?
  I've been so lucky, and have had the opportunity to perform at so many great venues. But, some of the most memorable have been CMA Fest in Nashville, Summerfest in Milwaukee, the Hard Rock Cafe in Chicago, the "Welcome America 4th of July Celebration" in Philadelphia, and the Chesapeake Inn in Maryland. There's a chance I'll be performing in Las Vegas this December, so that will definitely be exciting!
  
  
  Who inspires you with your singing and songwriting?
  I mentioned a few of my singing influences, but as far as songwriters, many of my influences tend to be Singer/Songwriters: Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Miranda Lambert, Sarah Jarosz, Taylor Swift, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson.
  
  If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
  I definitely want to perform all over the world. But my ultimate dream is to perform at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville someday. They refer to that theater as the "Mother Church" of country music, and you definitely feel as though you're in a hallowed place when you walk the halls there. As an artist, you know you have finally been accepted by your peers when you play the Opry.
  
  Along the same line, who would you love to perform with?
  I think I would be able to die happy if I got to perform a duet with Dolly Parton - she is my ultimate idol, as a songwriter, as a singer, as a business woman. It doesn't get any more country than Dolly.
  
  What are some of your goals for your Music?
  I want to make a career out of doing what I love - writing, performing, recording. Number one hits, touring, fame, and all that would be nice, but I'd consider myself successful if I get to wake up every morning and make music.
  
  What do you hope to accomplish with your singing/songwriting?
  I definitely want to give it my best shot to become a Singer/Songwriter, writing and performing my own songs. But, if that doesn't work out, I'd love to write for other artists, and maybe even produce recordings.
  
  Do you have any advice for those wanting to start a career in singing and songwriting?
  For anyone wanting to get into this crazy business, I always tell them they should work hard, surround themselves with an amazing support team, be prepared to make a lot of sacrifices, and network as often and with as many people as you can. Perform everywhere and anywhere you can, and get your music and your name out to as many people and in as many places as possible. I'd also say to be diligent, be honest, and be yourself.
  
  
  Is there anything else you want our readers to know about you, your singing/songwriting?
  If anyone would like to know any more about me or my music, the best place to go is my web site, www.paytontaylor.com. They can also check me out on facebook.com/paytoncountry, youtube.com/paytontaylortv, or twitter.com/paytontaylor129.
  
  Payton is an amazing young talented County Singer that has her career just starting. She has a lot of passionate in her singing. It worth watching where Payton's career goes as she is really talented. We can't wait to see where Payton's career takes her.

Setlist

1. Here For The Party - Gretchen Wilson
2. Soak Up The Sun - Sheryl Crow
3. Kerosene - Miranda Lambert
4. Mean - Taylor Swift
5. Delta Dawn - Tanya Tucker
6. Blue - Leann Rimes
7. Wagon Wheel - Old Crow Medicine Show
8. Let 'Er Rip - Dixie Chicks
9. Before He Cheats - Carrie Underwood
10. Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) - The Eurythmics
11. When Will I Be Loved - Linda Rondstadt
12. Fast As You - Dwight Yoakum
13. Pontoon - Little Big Town
14. Country Girl (Shake It For Me) - Luke Bryan
15. Redneck Woman - Gretchen Wilson
16. Two More Bottles Of Wine - Martina McBride
17. I Love Rock N' Roll - Joan Jett
18. Work Hard, Play Harder - Gretchen Wilson
19. Little White Church - Little Big Town
20. Amen - Edens Edge
21. Folsom Prison Blues - Johnny Cash
22. Don't Stop Believin' - Journey
23. Proud Mary - Tina Turner
24. You and Tequila (feat. Grace Potter) - Kenny Chesney
25. Lovesick Blues - Leann Rimes
26. Better Dig Two - The Band Perry
27. Tornado - Little Big Town
28. She's Country - Jason Aldean
29. Man! I Feel Like A Woman! - Shania Twain
30. Fastest Girl In Town - Miranda Lambert
31. Good Girl - Carrie Underwood
32. It Happens - Sugarland
33. You Shook Me All Night Long - AC/DC
34. Hit Me with Your Best Shot - Pat Benatar
35. Rock This Country! - Shania Twain
36. Black Horse and the Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall
37. Play That Funky Music - Wild Cherry
38. Sweet Home Alabama - Lynerd Skynerd
39. Me and Bobby McGee - Janis Joplin
40. Jackson - Johnny Cash
41. We Are Never Getting Back Together - Taylor Swift
42. Boondocks - Little Big Town
43. Crazy Town - Jason Aldean
44. Suds In the Bucket - Sara Evans
45. All I Want to Do - Sugarland
46. Cowboy Casanova - Carrie Underwood
47. If You're Not In It For Love - Shania Twain
48. Gunpowder & Lead - Miranda Lambert

Basic Requirements

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