Country music has a fresh, new face and sound in singer/songwriter Joy Styles on the Nashville music scene. Her debut EP release is entitled “Trying to Be Me.” It reflects the emotional journey of a woman who knows the value of past mistakes, and reemerges stronger, without shame or regret. The first release, “Crutches,” shows the strength of a lady who has moved beyond relying on the validation of others to depend on her faith in God and her own inner strength. “I think we can all remember times when we’ve used people or things as crutches to get by, when all we really needed was strength.” Joy’s emotionally resonant songs reflect her musical range and life experiences. Raised outside Philadelphia, Joy was blessed to be able to use her dramatic and vocal talents as a child. While other kids played, Joy honed her craft by taking piano lessons, attending summer performing arts camps and singing in her church choir. The first time Joy stepped on stage at the age of 4, she was hooked, but needed to finish all of her education first. So after attending Wellesley College, Joy moved to New York City with only $400 and a dream. There, she quickly emerged as a rising star in the theatre scene, pursuing her passion for acting in Off-Broadway theatre, television, film and voiceovers. While working in New York, she got the opportunity to study in London at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. When Joy returned to the Big Apple, she resumed working, performing on stage with legends such as Leslie Uggums and Phylicia Rashad. She also starred as a “Raelette” with the Ray Charles Tribute Orchestra headed by Ray Charles manager, Joe Adams. Music was always in her heart. Joy wrote her first song at age 10 and continued writing songs while acting. She found her true voice in country music. Joy headed south to Nashville, the home of country music and began to sing and write with much success. “The minute I landed I knew Nashville would be home. It was just so peaceful. It felt right.” Since then, Joy’s never looked back and has been working hard with great writers and musicians to bring her dream to life and is deeply appreciative to God and all her family and friends who have supported her on this amazing journey. Keep your eyes on this rising star. Taking the road less travelled is just the way she likes it!
