Throughout the trials of this past year, singer/songwriter Carly Pearce’s faith has remained a true constant in her life and something she’s always leaned heavily into. Pearce reached new levels of vulnerability with her recent duet with Matthew West on his No. 1 radio single “Truth Be Told.” In addition to this release with West, the two-time ACM Award winner released a brand new collection of songs, “29,” in February, which offers a vivid recollection of what it feels like to love, lose yourself, and get back together. In this TCB exclusive, Pearce talks her recent collaborations, ACM wins, and hopes for the rest of the year.
Congratulations on the recent duet release of “Truth Be Told” with Matthew West! Can you share your initial reaction when you heard about the opportunity?
I’ve been a fan of Matthew’s for years and I loved this song the second I heard it. When he asked me to be on the song with him, I immediately jumped at the chance. I didn’t have to think twice! The lyrics feel like such an anthem for my life over the past year and I’m so lucky to have been able to team up with Matthew on this song.
The lyrics of this single are vulnerable, honest, and inspired by faith. How do you think your faith plays a role in how you interact with others through your interactions and music?
My faith is such a big part of my life and I have been praying for the right opportunity to show more of my heart. Being transparent and vulnerable is so important to me, and it’s something I’ve really strived to do, especially over this past year.
Also, congratulations on winning the 2021 Academy of Country Music Awards for Single of the Year and Musical Event of the Year for “I Hope You’re Happy Now” featuring Lee Brice! Did you have any idea of the impact this song would have when you created/recorded it? And how does that recognition affect your drive to continue making music?
From the get-go we knew this one was special. My team and I fought so hard to make sure every aspect of the song was perfect and being able to have Lee’s vocals on the song was exactly what I wanted and brought it all together. This past year has been tough for me personally but country music has always been there to cheer me on. It’s a dream come true to receive these awards and feel so much love from the country music community.
These songs, as well as others you have released, demonstrate an openness to collaborations across the music industry. Who would be your dream future collaborator?
There are so many to choose from, but I have to say John Mayer comes to mind. He is such a powerful songwriter and I am constantly inspired by his writing.
Carly Pearce and Lee Brice perform at the 56th ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS. Photo: Brent Harrington/CBS
You’re best known as a country music singer, from 2017’s Every Little Thing to 2021’s 29, but have become more open about sharing your faith. How does “genre labeling” affect, if at all, the music you’re drawn to—both in creation and your personal listening enjoyment?
As a listener, I’m drawn to music that has a really good story and a lot of heart. I love being able to put myself in the perspective of the song and feel the emotions that come from the lyrics. Likewise, as an artist, I always want to make music that resonates with people and makes them feel something, no matter what genre it falls into. It’s not so much about the genre as it is about the stories behind the songs.
Success can mean many things to different people and situations. Do you have a unified vision of success throughout your musical career?
Success to me is being happy and enjoying the process of creating my music. I don’t really measure it in terms of awards or anything like that. If I’m able to love the music I’m creating and feel like it honestly represents what’s in my heart, that’s what really matters to me. Having people connect with the songs and love the music as well is just the cherry on top.
With all the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, what is the biggest lesson you have learned?
I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned is to always be honest in all of this. Having time off to really focus on music and my relationship with God was so invaluable to me. I feel like my faith is stronger than it’s ever been.
What are you most looking forward to in 2021?
I’ve started working on a continuation of the ’29’ collection that I’m so excited about, and I hope I can get back on the road and play safely again this year. There’s a lot to look forward to!
The post office Exclusive: ACM Award Winner Carly Pearce on Sharing Her Faith Through Music first appeared on TCB.
Author: Jessie Clarks
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