Spotlight on a Rising Star
Liz Carlisle Is Making New Fans by Opening for Big Stars
With a blend of country and folk music, Liz Carlisle is making a name for herself. She spoke to Suite101 and gave some insights into her music.
Singer, songwriter Liz Carlisle is emerging as a popular opening act for country shows throughout the country. She has opened shows for Lonestar, Sugarland, Diamond Rio, and Travis Tritt, amongst others. The 23-year-old from Missoula, Montana, is wowing audiences with songs from her recent CD “Big Dreams.” Recently, Suite101 had a chance to talk with the Summa cum Laude Harvard graduate and get some insight into her music.
Liz’s Montana upbringing was influenced by her father’s love for playing the guitar and the 70’s songwriter style of music. “I heard a lot of James Taylor,” says Carlisle. So it makes sense when people sometimes compare her music to Joni Mitchell. Country radio in the late 1990’s was also a big influence as Liz attended high school. Whether it was the trend-setting Garth Brooks or the consistent hit making of George Strait, Carlisle listened with an attentive ear.
When Carlisle entered Harvard, she took her Montana musical influences and began to play in clubs in the New England area. As if just attending Harvard wasn’t enough, she managed to embark on a musical career during her college days. She met up with her current producer and co-writer Russell Wolff. Wolff, who had made a name for himself in the alternative pop songwriter world, decided to give the country world a try with Carlisle. Since then, they have collaborated on two full-length CDs including “Big Dreams.”
“Big Dreams” is a treat to listen to. Combing a country and folk sound, Carlisle captured an audience often neglected in today’s music. When it comes to setting standards, Carlisle says, “If one of my songs means something to someone, I feel it has been a success.”
One of the highlights on the album is the first single, “Let Me Be The One.” Currently getting airplay on about 80 radio stations throughout the country, the single is a feel-good summer time song.
“Maybe in the Next Life” is another song that stands out. Written from her parents’ personal experience, the song tells the story of a man who is reluctant to date again after a divorce, and the encouragement needed to re-marry or even re-date.
“Whiskey” closes out the album and is one of the most unique songs about alcohol you will ever hear. It could be a radio hit, but Carlisle refuses to add any drums or “radio required” extra to this stunning ballad. The song closes her shows and can leave an audience in awe. Here are some of the lyrics:
I know it’s just the whiskey, but it used to be you.
I remember when you kissed me just because you wanted to.
So tonight I’ll fill your glass full with good old hundred proof
And I know it’s just the whiskey, but I’ll pretend it’s you.
Lyrics by Carlisle & Wolff
“Big Dreams” is currently available through her website www.lizcarlisle.com and most major online music suppliers such as Amazon or Itunes.
Quick, fun facts about Liz Carlisle:
Instruments she plays: Guitar, drums, jazz drum set
Favorite City to Visit: Missoula, Montana
Concert venue she’d like to perform in: Grand Ole Opry
Favorite TV Show: The Simpsons
Favorite Type of Food: Thai
Favorite Sports Team: Montana Grizzlies
PC or Mac: Mac
Single or Married: Single
