We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Loretta Callens a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Loretta, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I have loved music and singing from an early age and believe it to be a very important part of the human existence. My parents had always encouraged me to share the talents God gives us. Since music appeared to be my talent, it became one of my main purposes.
Joining in song circles has been a very important part of developing my skills. It also helped me overcome stage fright. I find it more frightening to play for folks that know me more than for strangers.
Must have worked, I won a 2018 Josie Music Award, “Female Artist of the Year”, in Folk/Americana and have been a nominee every year since.
The greatest joy I receive is performing for the Alzheimer Alliance, skilled nursing and retirement centers. They are an awesome audience!! I love to take them on a sentimental journey of their past through music.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’ve worn many hats in the independent music scene over the years. recording artist, performer, producer, promoter, MC and stage manager. You can read about my journey through music at www.lorettacallens.com.
Presently I am working as a solo singer/songwriter in the east Texas area at public and private events.. I also perform with an east Texas band, “Capt’n & The Crew”, playing rhythm guitar, singing lead and backup vocals.
In August of 2023 I released my 5th album, “Wings Unopened”, an instrumental album of my original compositions. featuring Gordon McLeod and Milo Deering. It is available for free streaming or download at https://lorettacallens.bandcamp.com/
“Comin’ Home”, my next album, is set for release in 2024. It is an instrumental album with a country/bluegrass twist.
I am blessed with wonderful producer’s, co-writers, and gifted musicians, that work on my musical endeavors. It is always exciting to hear and see an album coming together.
On my bucket list, is to build a catalogue of my originals to pitch for placement in, TV, soundtrack, commercials, etc. That bucket is half way there and will be full in the near future.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
For me, staying focused is a challenge. It is easy to get side tracked from your purpose and goals. Being able to say NO, and knowing when to say it is vital in any business.
Having the support of family, friends and fans makes the journey much easier.
Practice, practice and more practice. I’ve found participating in song circles is a fun way to practice.
Never let an opportunity go by but always be respectful of other’s space and time.
Be able to accept rejection, and most important, watch, listen and learn from where ever the lesson comes.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My parents were kind, loving and just in every way. It was a blessing to have been born to these two wonderful people. They taught me that I could do anything with perseverance and hard work. They loved music, saw my love for it, and encouraged me to use it for the edification of myself and other’s. Both of my parents have departed this world but left me with wonderful memories. For all of the above I am grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lorettacallens.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorettacallens/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lorettacallens/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loretta-callens-6302153a
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RetJean
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/loretta-callens
- Other: https://lorettacallens.bandcamp.com/ https://www.reverbnation.com/lorettacallens
Image Credits
Tom G. Callens Raquel Estrada-Smith Sue Lott David Hawkins
