Miracle or Not - A Chat with Alisa Turner

Ahead of her album release, we catch up with Nashville artist, Alisa Turner

1. Who are your musical influences?

Goodness, I am honestly influenced by all music in general. Seriously. I love when music is so strong and powerful it makes you feel something or recall a memory or even be a comfort to you. I could sit with a symphony for hours and be inspired upon inspired. My two most current albums I can’t stop playing are Steffany Gretzinger and Kacey Musgraves :)

2. You’re from Nashville, should we expect a country sound to your new album?

Oh no not a bit. Country music is a big part of Nashville but certainly not the only part! Christian music is a big portion of this town too and there are other genres finding their place. I will say, I had the lovely opportunity to sit down with Leslie Jordan from All Sons and Daughters, and that particular song we wrote and tracked did lean on the folk side. The slide guitar on it just melts me!

3. ‘Miracle or not’, your new album is packed-full of faith-filled songs and stories, What led to writing the tracks?

My Story. It's being lived so publicly. I fought Lyme Disease hidden, bedridden, behind closed doors for a long time. Thankfully, I have come a long way in healing so that I can be out with the rest of the world, connected to what’s going on and contributing as well. But this past winter proved a very difficult one for me. My disease got more aggressive and it was during the writing and tracking of this album so it greatly influenced what we made. I have had to come to peace with that. Honestly, I would have preferred making a record where I felt more healthy and stable, the songs would have been different. But I’ve always been honest with where I am, even if I don’t want to be in the place. So I wrote from those difficult moments and will be very proud of the album and not apologizing for the heaviness of it.

4. Who should listen to your album?

Anyone anywhere. There are songs so sweet, songs for the church, songs for when you're alone in the car. Having said that, I do hope this record finds its way into the hands of those who are suffering. I know what that’s like, more than I wish. Many of these songs are lifelines, reminders to keep believing, keep trusting, keep holding on.

5. Are there any particular songs on the album that you think the Church will be singing?

Well only since the church has already started singing them I can say most definitely “As It Is In Heaven”, “Lift My Eyes”, “Miracles”. Two that I hope find their way into the church soon would be “What A Day” and “Only My Jesus”.

6. You’re off on your tour across the USA this year, where are you most looking forward to visiting?

Most definitely the West Coast! Ready for all the Sunshine they can lend me!

7. Are you planning a trip to the UK soon?

Well, I sure did love my last trip out there! There may be an opportunity this coming Fall at a Music Festival that would bring me out your way. Crossing my fingers it all works out because I sure would love to spend more time out there.

8. What advice would you give to songwriters who are just starting out?

Put in your hours. A lot of times people are looking for opportunities before they are truly ready for them. When you get them and you're not prepared, you may lose them quick. Practice, put in the work, pour into your craft. Opportunities will come with ease and may find you first :)

Thank you, Alisa, for taking the time to chat with us.

Miracle or Not is available to order today from Eden.co.uk