A Nashville local with years of experience under her belt, Taria, who’s about to finish her first album, is ready to expand her audience. After coming across Taria’s music almost a year ago I was happy to interview her last week. You can read all about how her music career got started, how she sees her future and her upcoming album below.
1. At the early age of 15 you made your Grand Ole’ Opry debut. How did that come about?
I was watching the show like everyone else backstage at the Opry before a scheduled performance I had later that evening at The Ernest Tubb’s Midnight Jamboree. I introduced myself to Lorrie Morgan, who has always been a big musical inspiration to me as a little girl. I told Lorrie I was a huge fan. Got a picture and an autograph and told her I was also a singer. Then she asked me “Why don’t you sing us a little song?” and so I did. I sang a verse and chorus of Patsy Montana’s yodeling song ” I Wanna Be A Cowboy’s Sweetheart”.
Little did I know that afterwards Lorrie arranged, with the production manager at the Opry, for me to sing that song on the show in the next 20 minutes! I was so excited, nervous and couldn’t believe I was about to live out one of my biggest dreams! I thank God for that opportunity. That performance turned in to one of the best nights of my life! Getting introduced by one of my idols, performing and receiving a standing ovation singing on the Grand Ole’ Opry is a night and a moment I will never forget!
2. And not much later you were on tour with Vern Gosdin and Lorrie Morgan?
I was never on a “big tour” with Vern but we sang and performed together at The Nashville Palace on numerous occasions. We became very good friends. Country music lost one of the greatest voices. I learned so much from Vern. I appreciate what he taught me and I miss him very much.
I opened up several shows for Lorrie after my Grand Ole’ Opry appearance later that year in 1998.
3. Right now, you regularly perform at Nashville honky tonk stages like the Whiskey Bent Saloon and the Cadillac Ranch. How did you end up playing here and why do you love it so much?
I was very persistent in calling the manager at The Whiskey Bent Saloon until he finally gave me a night to play eight months ago, on one condition, which was if I would not call him anymore! My band and I have been there on Monday nights (6pm-10pm) ever since. I started playing The Cadillac Ranch Nashville in 2010 and they have been nice enough to keep asking me back.
I love people and enjoy making them happy. I love the personal connection I feel with my audience and I love the comradery with my band. It feels so natural, like breathing to me, to be on stage. I truly appreciate the reaction of the people when they let me know that they’re having as much fun watching and listening as I am singing and performing!
4. What’s the most important lesson you learned from living in Nashville? And how have you applied that to your career?
I was born and raised in Nashville Tn. The Music Business is TOUGH! Even being a native of this great town, doors will be shut on you. You can’t always believe everything folks say and you can’t expect anything in Nashville to happen fast. I have been told NO so many times and I have also been promised the moon. You learn that as long as you’re doing your best and having fun, you don’t allow “The Naysayers” to effect you but fuel you! All you can do and be is your best. You always work hard and push to better yourself as a singer/performer. I had to learn many years ago that I will not please everybody and it took me a long time to understand this. Criticism is good but you can’t let it slow you down, but rather use it as a motivator.
There will be many in this business that will promise you a “quick reward” and you sometimes learn the hard way that there is NO quick way of becoming successful. Especially if your looking for longevity in your career. You have to pay your dues and as hard as it is sometimes you have to hang on to your dream and persevere through all the ups and downs and broken promises!
Having a solid foundation of people around you, always supporting you and keeping you grounded through your journey, is also key! Thankfully, I have always had that love and support.
5. You are working on your first album at the moment. Can you tell us a bit more about it?
Yes! Have been working on my project for almost two years. So exciting to finally see it become reality!
- What’s the name of the album?
We haven’t determined this yet as I’m still finishing recording.
- When will it be out?
We are hoping before Christmas of this year.
- Will there be a single (and video) released?
Yes! Not sure which song it will be just yet as my producer and I want to finish recording all my songs before we make that decision.
- What can people expect from it/you?
People can expect to hear songs that everybody can relate to. You’ll also find sincerity and a positive flare to most all the tracks with great melodies and strong lyrics.
- Have you been writing the songs yourself? If not, where did the songs come from?
I am not a songwriter, so we have been most blessed cutting songs written by some of the best and most successful writers in Nashville Tn: Mark Nesler, George Teren, Rivers Rutherford, Jennifer Hansen and Tony Martin to name a few. Between those five writers there are probably no fewer than 20 #1 hits penned by such artist as Tim Mcgraw, George Strait, Keith Urban, Reba, Gretchen Wilson and many more! I am so thankful that these talented writers have allowed me to cut songs from their catalog.
I listened to hundreds of songs and picked out the ones that spoke to me. When you’re listening to songs written by such amazing writers, you want to cut’em all but I had to narrow it down and make choices. I love the choices I have made and I can’t wait to share them with everybody soon!
- Which song is your favorite (or means the most to you) and why?
Honestly, it’s so hard to pick a favorite because I truly love all the songs we have cut! Sorry, I know that’s a generic answer but it’s really the truth!
6. Are you planning more concerts (around the US maybe) once the album has been released?
Yes, we hope to tour not only in the US but internationally as well!
7. Where would you like to see yourself two to three years from now?
Being a regular on The Grand Ole’ Opry and just being on stages everywhere watching my fans enjoy my music and singing along would be amazing!
8. Anything you’d like to add?
My goal as an artist is to be true to myself and provide my fans with music they can enjoy for a lifetime! As I stated before, the music business is such a TOUGH business and I just want to thank all the people who have given me encouragement to never give up and to always follow my dreams of being a country music singer. I have always loved to sing and perform and despite all the hardships and turmoil that goes along with this business, there’s nothing I would rather do than being on stage singing a song, telling a story, providing enjoyment for others.
I just want to encourage anyone who has a dream to never give up! Never stop believing in yourself! There are times when you question yourself, no matter what your dream is, and wonder if it’s ever going to work out? It’s during these times that I have always gotten such amazing support and confirmation that I’m doing exactly what I’m suppose to be doing! Thanks and God Bless Ya’ll!
For more information on Taria, please visit Taria.com.
About Marloes Lucy Duizer
Well written article, I can feel your enthusiasm! I think I have listened to “Every Time” at least 50 times and get goosebumps each time! I have listened to many of your songs and can not wait for you to tour for your many fans outside of Tn.
Please consider coming to “The Roundup” in Davie, Fla. (just west of Ft. Lauderdale) Girl, a drink for you and the band on me.
Thank you for sharing your gift to us, now lets rock out the message of your talent! LOl, I was going to joke about saying that I could say that I knew you when, but baybee you were born this way!!!!! AMEN!
Taria is a true STAR. She doesn’t miss a beat. She’s absolutely inspiring on stage, but what’s almost more impressive is her genuine, caring personality. So many talented folks these days lack that ‘star’ quality, and Taria’s got it!
Taria n her awesome drum beating husband Marty, ( I’m a Former Nash. Drummer n recognize excellance when I see it), but Taria is Great, n her Drumming husband too, eventhough he plays with the wrong hand, ( South Paw ) lol, they’re both “AWESOME “!!!! The rest of the guys really are pro.’s in every sense of the word. We’ve become good friends as well along with my wife, which Taria calls Ms. Betty. Haha !!!! Marty has a heart as big as a Gold Mine. He once found my Grandson, age 7, lost his Kit to a total house fire my Daughter n Son in LAW accidentally had. So Marty calls me saying he still had his TAMA Classic Snare with wooden shell inside but had just began to place it on eBay n sell it. Oh, yeah, it would’ve brought money. Why ?? It’s age number one n the aforementioned classifications. Plus it’s the exact same Snare he used on the TV Show “”HEE HAW”" back when Marty played the show with Roy Clark. Marty gave it to me n you should’ve seen the eyes of that 7-yr old Boy. Lol. Marty signed it for him n gave it to me in a ( Tuxedo Bag )… After he’d gotten to see n hear it, Mommy said this goes on your bedroom wall until your older. Haha. The shirt off his back. I won’t mention Taria in that manner. I’ll just say if you want to be entertained, and I mean this little Lady is all over the club with her wireless Mic.,,,, seeing n hearing Taria n her guys play a little bit of everything is a complete
) xoxo you go girl !!!!
((( M U S T ))). Again,,, “” AWESOME. “”!!!!
Sing-Cerely;
Hunter Green n Miss Betty. Lol.
Being the wife of a musician myself, I know the struggles Taria goes through. Although I only saw her perform live one time, she really made a lasting impression on me! I could tell that she LOVES what she does and she has such a strong passion for music. I hope that she goes far in her career. Also, she has an AWESOME band backing her, and that is very important. Good Luck Taria! Hope to see you performing in Louisiana one day!
Taria is an awesome person she can sing and I cant wait to see how far she goes.Wish her the best of luck.:)
Beautiful voice and beautiful person!
We all have a dream and a wish that we will impact a persons life thru our daily activities…if we can only touch one person in a positive way, then we know we are doing what we were called for! Wish her all the luck in her musical journey!
Great interview with a great artist! Congrats Taria!
We love Taria! Thank you so much for the great interview!
I love Taria’s music. She is a great singer and entertainer and has a sweetheart personality. Someone needs to sign this girl up! Can’t wait to see her soon at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tulsa!
My husband and I went down to Nashville for Thanksgiving last year. When we were getting out of the car in front of the Cadillac Ranch I thought I was listening to a cd. When we walked in and I realized it was Taria singing I was struck with how talented she was. She is also a beautiful woman, both in and out. I have since become a big fan. I have been back to Nashville 2 other times and once to Kentucky just to hear her! She is also very nice to her fans. Seems to really care about people. I wish her nothing but the best!
I have been around country music my whole life, when i came across Taria’s music i was amazed! She’s such a talented singer & songwriter. She brings new stuff out all the time and I’m very impressed! Cant wait to see her soon & hopefully one day meet her!!
I had the pleasure of meeting Taria and her mom, at The Nashville Palace, through mutual friends, and watched her sing with Vern that same night. I wish they had made a CD, because they were just as good as the best duets we have known! My one wish is to get back to Nashville to see her on stage again! She’s a natural and will go far, but will never lose track of her roots. She’s a great gal! Keep sharing that golden voice, Taria. I know you will be going far.
Love from your friends in New England, we hope to see your up here someday!!
XOX
i think taria has really great vocal skills and writer whom i can see has a brite future in the country music industry , oh yeah and she has the looks to boot .and i know she has paid her dues cause she is doing shows all over the country , and i can tell that she really loves what she does and to me thats what it takes to be a great performer and thats what taria is a great performer !!!
Hell yeah – Taria ROCKS!!!! Nice article!!
Great interview. Taria really really her work and it shows in her performances. Keep up the wonderful work
Congradulations for a wonderful interview. Your a wonderful young woman with lots of talent
to offer everyone!! You have a beautiful voice with a beautiful heart to go with it. May God bless you always…..
That was a really great interveiw! It makes me want to get back into singing. Thank you!
Taria is an amazing singer and one of the sweetest girls I know. A very talented artist, who is gonna go far! Love ya girl!!!!
Very Good and Awesome Interview!! If you haven’t heard TARIA live and in person, YOU NEED TO!!! This girl rock’s!! She is one of the kindest and sweetest people that you could ever meet as well! I love how she interacts with the audiences. I have seen her put smiles all over faces many times by singing to them personally! I can’t wait for her CD to come out! Thanks for a great article and GOOD LUCK IN YOUR JOURNEY TARIA!!
~~Jamie in Missouri
Very good interview! Taria is such a cool person and interacts so well with her audience! Good Luck Taria!
Taria is a Blessing to music,Period!! She has an amazing attitude and is a true joy to behold!!So much to offer in her music and such a powerful voice.In our opinion in the Worley house she has everything it takes to be a driving force on the biggest stages and is poised to skyrocket to the next level!!
Congrats Taria! Nice interview…
Reminds me of Sonya Issacs, whom I abolutely love!!
Reminds me of Sonya Issacs, whom I absolutely love!
Had the pleasure of listening to Taria at The Whiskey Bent Saloon Nashville last month..it made the 4500 mile trip from The United Kingdom well worth it!! We’ll be back for more!
I was on vacation from Wales in the U.K. and saw Taria in the Whiskey Bent Saloon ,Broadway (THE STRIP),Nashville, in September…Crackin singer..
Incredibly unbelievable artist. Hope to see her hit the big time soon. She has probably worked harder and performed more than anyone else ever has in Country music to get her songs out there. Taria is beyond dedicated and her focus is completely on her music. She is an incredible lady!
Taria has the God-given talent that blesses everyone who hears her. She’s got that Patsy Cline quality to her voice, but with her own unique style. And I have to say, one of the nicest people I’ve ever met! God bless you Taria ♥
This is the music I was raiused on, so nice to hear people singing it the way it should be sung.
This is the music I was raised on, so nice to hear people singing it the way it should be sung.
Her voice is mezmorizing pure, her stage presance pulls you in and you feel as though you become part of the music. I have had a chance to hang out with her and her band when they were here in Missouri and let me tell you, she is just as energizingly sweet in person & off stage as she is on. I am convinced it is only a matter of time before she is singing in front of 10′s of thousands of people.
very good ( great voice) good control
One of the sweetest, both her voice and her personality, singers I’ve ever met. Had the great good fortune to see her live at a performance in my home town. Hope to buy her album as soon as it’s available.
Great interview! Taria has amazing vocals and talent on stage and is surrounded by great musicians. We wish her the best of luck.
TARIA!!! Seriously, this girl has it all! What a VOICE! She’s a beautiful woman, inside and out… and it shows in her passion, some people should BE on the stage, Taria is one of those ……. We need to weed out the crap on the Internet so that someone like TARIA can SHINE… Shine on girl… every TIME….
I’ve know Taria for a little over a year now, we met through a mutual friend in the music business. Truth be told, I don’t even like country music very much, but I love what Taria is doing . She has such a magnetic personality and stage presence, not to mention a world class voice. Wishing you all the best, you deserve it.
COOOOOOOOLLLLLL !!!!!!
Hey Taria, What else can I say, I been listening your songs and watching you perform live…you got what it takes and you are already up there for your information! GO GO GO!!!
Not only is Taria a blessing to the music industry, she is also a blessing to those of us lucky enough to know her! She has an amazing voice and a just as amazing personality and love of life and love for her fans! If you ever get the chance to see her, don’t pass it up! She puts on one hell of a show with so much energy and love for what she does! Keep up the good work, Taria!! You rock, girl!!!! God bless!!
I have seen Taria in a live performance and watched her video. Her warmth and sweet personality shine. Her voice is wonderful, strong and natural. I will be a fan forever. Can’t wait to have her cd in my collection. Blessings to you and strength to work & carry on!
Simply the hottest show in Nashville right now. Taria is one of a kind; cant say enough about her awesome singing abilities and wow what an entertainer!!!!!!!!!!!!
Come to know Taria’s music through my daughter, she came to visit us in Somerset, Kentucky. Taria has a beautiful voice and is a wonderful entertainer!!!! I love to listen to her music!!
Good Luck with your future in the Music World!!!
Taria has a amazingly strong voice and talent.Wonderful stage presence and a beautiful personality.I look forward to seeing and hearing more from her.Wishing her nothing but everything!
Awesome interview you had Taria with Holland!! Just proves to anybody to reach for your dreams & go for it as long as you think it takes,with alot of determination YOU DID IT!!!!!Congratulations on getting this far along with your husband Marty & crew,you’s are doing a fantastic job!! Taria you have such great talent & such an awesome person to chat with that I hope you all the best in your COUNTRY MUSIC !!!! It would be awesome to have you come up to CANADA (especially SASKATCHEWAN )!!!Country Craven Jamboree is where I see most of the country STARS so maybe your agents could book you in sometime soon whereby I could have front row & seat!!God Bless You Taria & All the Best in Your Counrty Music!!xo!!
Love your music, your a very gifted gal. We will soon be seeing you on the Country Music Awards. Here is a “Cheers” to your future musical career, you go go go girl!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is How “SHE” does it, translates into a perfect image of what it means to be Taria! Dedicated, paid her dues, and pleases those that appreciate her vocal talent. And I, out of many, cannot wait for her album release this year. Blessed, Impressed, and wanting more! Thank you for sharing the story of a gal I adore!! To Taria, and to your future: May we all have the pleasure to enjoy your sweet bird vocals, and may your heart always be where it deserves to be; pleasing others! TY for being the AWEsome that you are!!!! lydia
This is a great article. I not only learned a lot about Taria, but also about the music industry and especially Nashville.
Taria has a beautiful and powerful voice, which is a rare and great combination, and she will definitely become a major and enduring force in the world of country music.
I love to listen to her sing…..She is just amazing to listen to and also to be around. I look forward to hearing more of her soon !
It’s so exciting to hear a great performer and KNOW that one day she’ll make it big! So glad to have had the chance to see Taria, When she regularly performs at The Grand Ole’ Opry and other big stages (where she really aught to be!), I’ll be able to say, “I heard her when…”
What a AWESOME interview! Taria, you are one blessed lady! You not only have a AMAZING voice, but you have a GREAT personality too! I’m so glad I had the chance to meet you in person in July, in Somerset, Ky. Hope to get to see you again soon! XOXO