(Photography by Joseph Bronzino)

In the hometown of country music legend Alan Jackson, another star is on the rise; singer/songwriter Julie Thames. Like Newnan, Georgia’s Jackson, she‘s a natural born musician and writes lyrics that connect listeners to her music. In 2010 Thames released her first CD "Say Yes" produced and co-written by Diane Durrett on Blooming Tunes Music, Atlanta, Georgia. "Say Yes" blends optimistic yet feisty lyrics that inspired critics at the Newnan Herald to write,  "The combination leaves listeners yearning for more."

Another good working combination is Durrett and Thames.  "We think Alike about music."  Thames remarked. "We talk in our own language (when writing songs)," agreed Durrett.

Now at the age of seventeen, Thames is working with veteran producer and recording artist Durrett on her second CD release recorded at Real to Reel studios and mixed at After Dark Designs. Performing with Thames is Grammy award-winning drummer Yonrico Scott (Derek Trucks), bassist Ted Pecchio (Susan Tedeshi),  keyboardist Eric Frampton (Paul Simon) and guitarist Markham White.  Julie Thames' first single  "September Rain" now available.   Stayed tuned...the full CD will be released in 2012.

Buy "September Rain" (MP3)

Listen to "September Rain":

Blooming Tunes Music Launches New Artist!


2011 Kelsey Oakley sings "Alan Jackson Highway," written by producer Diane Durrett.

Encouraging young musicians in their singing and songwriting efforts is a true passion. When Diane Durrett heard Newnan resident and East Coweta High School senior Kelsey Oakley sing "Alan Jackson Highway," she knew this was a perfect fit. "Kelsey's voice has such a beautiful tone. She reminds me of country singers like Miranda Lambert and Martina McBride who can really belt it!" Durrett said. Oakley will release her first single on Durrett's label, Blooming Tunes Music, this month after taking voice lessons for three years. "I have been amazed at how Kelsey's hard work as paid off!" Durrett said. "Kelsey won the 2009 'IDOL at the Fair' and was in the top five at the 2011 "IDOL at the OPRY."

Buy the hometown mix of "Alan Jackson Highway" (MP3)

Buy the radio mix of "Alan Jackson Highway" (MP3)

Listen to "Alan Jackson Highway":

Julie Thames Press Release

Photo by © Joseph Bronzino

Buy "Push Comes to Shove" (MP3)

Listen to sample of Push Comes to Shove

Hear MORE songs by Diane Durrett here!

PRODUCTION
Diane joins vocal production with songwriting development or song selection to create your professional recording. 

SONGWRITING
Diane teaches up & coming songwriters as well as those who just want to have fun learning to craft a song.  Blending modern lyric techniques with storytelling and chord structures with melody; she offers a unique way to learn about writing songs.  Diane teaches hourly songwriting lessons, monthly seminars and daily workshops. 

VOCAL INSTRUCTION
Diane offers voice instruction and in-studio production.  Her vocal style is contemporary yet she was trained in classical methodology at the Mercer University School Music. She mixes classic singing techniques with the styles of modern music and helps you find your voice.

Production, Songwriting & Vocal Instruction
Contact us for pricing and packages at:
durrettheads@mindspring.com

WHAT'S NEW TODAY?
Gone are the days of the big record label artist development deals. It’s a new world in the music business now. Artists have listeners at their fingertips through promotion, radio and distribution on the web, but you still need a good voice, creative songs and a professional recording for your fans to buy. You need artist development. Don’t wait to be discovered. Learn to be a PRO so you can sell and share your own music!