Lindsay Huggins Chats About Working with Reba McEntire, Jerry Salley and Her New Record "Then Jesus Came"

Lindsay Huggins is a multi-talented artist who expresses her musical ideas in her own inimitable style. But ministry is more than a hit record for her. It is a calling, and a way of life. Huggins has just released her brand new album "Then Jesus Came," an album produced by verteran Jerry Salley.  Salley has written songs for artists such as Toby Keith, Patty Loveless, Brad Paisley, Joe Nichols, Darryl Worley and the Isaacs.  Stylistically, the new album skews towards Gospel country, but it stretches the genre. Some songs incorporate big church choirs while others have a soulful black Gospel feel.

Hallels:  Tell us a little about yourself and what are some of your goals in music ministry.

I'm a wife and mom who wants to encourage and uplift other through my music.  I know firsthand that a song can speak to someone in a unique way.  I want to use the gifts God has give me to impact people with the message of Christ's hope and love.

 Hallels:  You have once worked with Reba McEntire.  How did you get to work with her?  And how did you help her?

I began my time at Reba's company Starstruck Entertainment through an internship in the studio during my senior year in college. About six months after I graduated, they called and offered me the receptionist job.  After about a yea in that position I moved up to work with various aspects of her music, touring, and branding.   

Hallels:  On your website bio you mentioned about learning from the way Reba chooses her songs.  How does she choose her songs?  What did she look out for?

Like any great artist, Reba looks for great songs.  I, too, want to record music that matters and touches people.  Sometimes that means an upbeat, happy song, that helps us celebrate the good times in life.  Sometimes it's a song that confronts the difficulties of life. 

Hallels:  Congratulations on the release of your new fourth album "Then Jesus Came."  How did you get to meet and work with your producer Jerry Salley?

I actually met Jerry when he was on a panel of industry judges for a talent show at my college, over 10 years ago.  Then through working at Starstruck and various industry events, I would see him from time to time.  I knew he was a wonderful songwriter with multiple hits and credits to his name, and he was always friendly and down to earth.  I happened to find out that he was producing through another artist.  I liked what I heard of his other production work and reach out to him.  I think we made a great team and I'm really proud of the project!

Hallels:  I believe this album also showcases your first co-write "Nothing He Can't Redeem."  Tell us about how you came to co-write this song.

I've wanted to write for a while, and I would have ideas here and there and just never really finished anything.  I decided to push myself to have at least one song on the new project that I penned.  So, being a little unsure of myself, I enlisted the help of longtime family friend and incredible writer Marcia Henry.  We started with an idea and a few lines I'd jotted down about God's redeeming power in our lives and the rest is history.  

Hallels:  "Praying Women" is your latest single and video off the new album.  What's the song about?  And when is the video released?

The song reflects on the women who have held us up in prayer, shaping us into the people we are and impacting our walk with Christ. I, for one, am very thankful for my mother, grandmother, Sunday School teachers, youth workers, etc., who prayed with and for me!  The video will be released any day now.  We are finalizing the editing process now.  Check www.lindsayhuggins.com to find it. 

Hallels:  For our readers who would like to purchase your albums or/and find out more about you, where can they go?

My website www.lindsayhuggins.com can connect you with everything.  I'm also on Facebook (Facebook.com/lindsayhugginsmusic) and Twitter (@lindsaylou33).  My music can also be purchased digitally through iTunes, Amazon, or Google Play.   

 

 

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