Post Birth | Thoughts & Thanks Following Release of Draw Me Nearer

Patricia Russell Album Release Celebration

This weekend we released my second full-length album.  It was truly like carrying a baby and giving birth.  I look back on the conception of the recording and the journey we took and marvel.  I tend to be little hard on myself so I am glad I had people with me to keep me on track.  It would not only have been lonely but I would not have had so many opportunities to grow.

Whenever you are working with people on a project you WILL grow.  Creative people have to have the mindset of learning from others, being vulnerable, transparent and deciding to allow others to help them move to another level than where they currently are.  If you don’t, you are defeated right out the gate.

Patricia Russell and Joy Brown (Producer)

Joy Brown, my producer, and I worked with some wonderful vocalists who had varied backgrounds and brought their own unique flare to the music.  The musicians were a dream team who made their recommendations and brought their creative ideas to the table.   I felt while working with Joy, that they “had my back” in their commitment to making sure they got the music right!  The music stretched me in many ways allowing me to flow into some of the styles I may have been afraid to venture into in the past.

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My daughter, Raquel worked tirelessly behind the scenes coordinating the media aspect as well as overseeing ticket sales and keeping our budget in mind.  She encouraged, and motivated the team while reminding me to focus on what I needed to do and let her and others do what they needed to do.  Thank you Raquel.

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Did I tell you my husband is not only a man “after God’s heart” but also a man who is not afraid of taking risks?  He is also a motivator. And motivate me he did.  He never doubted the recording or the success of the CD and I am very thankful for him.  What can I say about my brother who worked with Raquel to do the slideshow and photography for the evening.

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There were so many other people behind the scenes. Hope, Rose, Audrey, Carol, Elaine, Mother Amelda, Cindy, Jamoke, Joy, Maureen okay I should stop.  However, if you sold a ticket, gave an encouraging word, picked up food, just the fact that you showed up at the concert – wow – to me it was huge!  I was blessed with family on both sides who gave critical advice and valuable recommendations.  Do you see how important it is to have people come with you on your journey?!  They help to keep you balanced and accountable.  So with that, we go forward and continue because just like a reprise in a song – it’s not over…the concert is over but the journey continues.

Blessings!

Love Pat

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Here are some images of the celebration night on Saturday May 31, 2014. Click on an image to view a large version. If on you desktop or laptop, use the arrow keys to navigate through the slideshow.

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