The Abby Merritt Band
We had the chance to catch up with Abby Merritt, a young and talented bluegrass gospel artist who is quickly making a name for herself in the bluegrass world. At just 16 years old, Abby has already built a band, performed on stages across Texas, and continues to use her music to share her faith and passion for bluegrass.
Can you share the story behind the formation of The Abby Merritt Band and your musical journey as a young female artist?
Well, my performing journey started about 2 years ago when I participated in an open mic contest at the Oakdale BlueGrass Festival in Glen Rose. I sang about 15 minutes worth of songs and went off stage. Even though I ended up not winning, the Paluxy River Bluegrass Association asked me to come back and play a full set for their third Saturday event. I said yes, and had asked Kieth, Patti, Curtis, and Raymie to join me. The band wasn't really official until we had more people reach out to us and my name started to grow little by little. Since then, we've played all the way from big stages to very small churches.
What can fans expect from your sound and style?
Not typical bluegrass, but listeners can expect a mixture of gospel and a few traditional songs. We try to do something different to keep it interesting but we try not stray too far in order to keep it traditional.
How would you describe your musical style, and who are your major influences?
I like a lot of Kenny and Amanda Smith's music.
Do you have any upcoming tour dates or events you'd like to share with your fans?
No upcoming dates at the moment.
How has your musical background shaped your approach to performing?
I don't know l just do it haha.
What are your goals as an artist for the future of The Abby Merritt Band?
My goals for the band is that we touch the hearts that need to be, and hopefully make an impact in their life through the gospel of Jesus just one song. l'm not sure what the future is going to look like since i will be heading to college in a couple years.
What role does family, community, and faith play in your life and music?
We play music to glorify God and to share his gospel message through song.
Can you share any early performances or experiences that have been significant to you?
I recently played at a church in my hometown, Paris. That meant a lot to me, I could really feel the holy spirit in the room.
What are you most excited about as you move forward with your music career?
I'm not sure what the future holds for my music career, but i am most excited about getting to share the gospel with others.
What’s next for The Abby Merritt Band? Are there any exciting projects or plans you're working on?
No projects at the moment. I have a small recording studio at my house and I may make a CD with all my music in the future.
As a young artist, what do you feel is your biggest strength in connecting with your audience, and how do you plan to build on that?
I connect with them through song selection. I try to select songs that will be fun, fast and uplifting. At the same time, I also try to pick out songs that are more serious, and will touch their hearts.
Being at the beginning stages of your music career, what are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned so far about songwriting and performing?
I haven't started songwriting yet but I've learned a few things from performing. I always get really nervous before I perform, but as soon as I get on the stage and a few songs in, it all goes away. I've learned that the Lord is with me every step of the way and I try to apply that to my life every day.