Russ Nottingham

Story

Russ Nottingham is a Christian singer, songwriter and musician. His inspirational music is a blend of his lifelong influences, from Country to Southern Rock, from Bluegrass to Jazz, and just about everything in between. Most of the lyrics in Russ' songs, will carry you through a journey that encompassed much of his young adult life, a journey of forgiveness. Russ: "I was raised in a Christian home with a praying and believing mom and dad. But as I grew older, I decided to do my own thing, and I began playing out in bars and nightclubs.“ After a few years, Russ joined a Country band, which shortly began growing with recognition. This allowed them the opportunity of opening shows for some major Country stars such as Conway Twitty, Johnny Cash, Diamond Rio, Charlie Daniels, Vince Gill, Tammy Wynette and many others. It was looking like the Country music dream was becoming a reality. “Things were looking pretty good! I must honestly admit that it was some fun and exciting times. But as time went by, I began to realize that I had an uneasy feeling inside. I felt an emptiness, like there was something missing. The worst part was, deep down, I knew what that something was, but I just wasn't ready to accept it. ” As achieving the dream drew closer, God’s calling on Russ’s life became clear. “The more we traveled, the more I began to get homesick and miss my wife and kids. The more exposure we gained, the less exciting it became. That's when I realized that even though I had turned my back on God, He still cared for and wanted me back. So, over a period of a few months, I ended up resigning from the band and both my wife (Jeri) and I along with our two boys (Rusty & Michael), rededicated our lives back to God and here we are today, some twenty years later!” The catchy music and encouraging lyrics in Russ' songs, reflect on the unconditional love and relentless pursuit of our Heavenly Father. Through all of our faults and failures, we are never out of God’s reach. This is the lifelong testimony of Russ Nottingham.

Profile

Instruments

Genres

Influences

Equipment

What is music to you? What does it give you?

Sometimes music for me, is a stress outlet. When I'm feeling stressed or down and out, I get my guitar out and start playing and singing. Actually, thats when some of my better songs have been written. Music gives me pleasure and relief.

What is your music dream?

To be able to do music for a living.

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

The division that we see across this nation!

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

To many to list.

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

The Eagles, Alabamba, Diamond Rio, Journey, Ricky Skaggs

What inspires you to make music?

God!

What is the message you want to send with your music?

No matter what we are facing or going through, there is hope through our Lord Jesus Christ!

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

Blessed

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

N/A

What do you think of Drooble?

So far, so good. Still learning it!

What frustrates you most as a musician?

Lack of support as a Christian musician

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

When we can

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

To me a musician should have morals, and be professional no matter what genre!

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

Russ Nottingham